Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Schools still plan to look for new teachers
Wayne County school officials are hoping Saturday's teacher job fair will attract educators, and are offering several incentives to lure candidates -- even if they are not yet sure what the budget will be to hire them. The annual job...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville gets federal funds for fire station
Pikeville residents hope that when Vice President Joe Biden comes to town Wednesday he will bring good news for the Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Volunteer Fire Department. "We're all excited," said Ken Jones, assistant chief and fire department vice president. Fire Chief...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Stimulus stump: Vice President Joe Biden to visit Faison, Pikeville
Vice President Joe Biden is expected to visit Pikeville and Faison on Wednesday to tout the White House's stimulus plan. Officials at Goshen Medical Center in Faison say they are expecting more than $600,000 in federal money and Pikeville...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Learning to spot the bling early
Two-year-old Jocelyn Jacobs helps her aunt shop for an engagement ring Monday inside Kay Jewelers at Berkeley Mall in Goldsboro....Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goshen Medical Center will benefit from Obama administration's stimulus money
The Goshen Medical Centers in Faison and Goldsboro are going to get more doctors and support staff, thanks to almost $636,000 in federal stimulus money. U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre announced Friday that Goshen, along with three other medical centers, would...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Friends of Scouting doing well with fundraising drive
The Friends of Scouting are giving generously this year, says Tuscarora Council Executive Harold Keller, and the campaign kickoff has raised 82 percent of this year's $230,000 goal. Last year's kickoff banquet raised 70 percent, he said. This year's kickoff,...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Walk for Hunger draws 150 participants
United Church Ministries held its annual Walk for Hunger on Sunday, with more than 150 people representing 13 churches. Organizers said they hope to better the $18,000 raised last year. Proceeds go to help the organization and those charities it...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County rejects state's plan for roads
Wayne County officials are warning residents that their property tax rate could see a minimum increase of 6 cents -- from 76.4 to 82.4 cents per $100 of value -- should the state transfer maintenance of secondary roads to...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Plant sale Saturday at Wayne Center
The Master Gardener Volunteers will hold a Spring Garden Festival and Plant Sale Saturday at the Wayne Center from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. There will be activities for children as well as booths where adults can pick up gardening...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Herman White of Devereaux Street reported that two males he did not know knocked on the door, then entered his house Sunday and pulled out handguns. The suspects made family members sit in the bedroom while they took...Published: Mar 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, March 30, 2009
SJAFB jets will fly more to prepare for deployment
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base personnel are gearing up for war, and this week that means Wayne County residents can expect to hear much more from the 4th Fighter Wing's F-15E fleet. Base officials said airmen are scheduled to participate...Published: Mar 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Plummer, local vet and WWII pilot, dies at 84
"Bill Plummer was one of the first people I met when I came to Goldsboro," Price said. "He took me with him as he made his rounds, treating farm animals around the county. His life gave a special dimension to...Published: Mar 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
A second chance for a neighborhood
Felina Chase knows about life in Section 8 housing. The property manager with McClain Barr and Associates managed a low income housing unit in Maryland for 10 years, and before that, Ms. Chase herself grew up in public housing. And...Published: Mar 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Jaycees accepting nominations for awards
The Goldsboro Jaycees are currently accepting nominations for outstanding citizens in several categories. The nominees selected will be recognized locally at the Jaycees Annual Distinguished Service Awards Banquet in May. Nominees for Outstanding North Carolinian should demonstrate exemplary qualities...Published: Mar 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Grant opportunity available
East Carolina University and the state Department of Commerce are collaborating on an innovative Community Development Block Grant program. The Talent Enhancement Demonstration Grants program, designed to provide technical assistance and financial resources to increase competitiveness and build stronger, more...Published: Mar 30, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 29, 2009
State gets 43 bids for Union Station revitalization project
Architectural firms' letters of interest for the Union Station revitalization project have arrived - more than 40 of them. "We're very pleased with the turnout there. It's a long process, but we're excited to be moving on it," said Craig...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Purple bows of hope: Carol Mitchell, Phyllis and Jeff Turner and Shiloh Farm's children are raising funds for Relay for Life
This year, Carol Mitchell wanted to do something extra special for a friend and neighbor who has battled cancer for the past six years. Her friend was in her mid-40s when she got breast cancer. She beat it, only to...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
A union of races, a union of memories
Elouise Williams remembers the day a northbound train brought two races together -- when blacks and whites gathered as one just a few feet away from the segregated bathrooms and water fountains inside Goldsboro's Union Station. It was 1939, and...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Re-enactors show soldiers' life around time of 1862 battle
Civil War re-enactors representing troops who defended Goldsboro against attack in 1862 put on a show for local residents Saturday, re-creating a Confederate encampment and demonstrating rifle and cannon fire on the site of the real battle. The living...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Deannexation could cost city up to $600,000
If the deannexation bill introduced by two Wayne County legislators passes into law, reversing the annexation of the Buck Swamp and Falling Brook areas could cost the city of Goldsboro more than half a million dollars. Since the annexation...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Daffodil Festival defies rain
FREMONT -- Between 700 and 800 people came out to the Fremont Daffodil Festival Saturday. And many of them had either an ice cream cone or shaved ice in their hands as they tried to cool down in the 70-degree...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Pikeville man charged with statutory rape
A 27-year-old Pikeville area man has been charged with statutory rape for an alleged sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office says. Leroy Luther Murchison, 29, of Lancaster Road, faces one count of statutory rape...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Walnut Creek closes its compost facility, could reopen it later
WALNUT CREEK -- The residents of Walnut Creek may not have a place in the village to buy compost in the future. The village council decided to close the facility March 9 until village officials can figure out how...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Fremont STARS students' design gets picked for Daffodil Festival stamp
The children at Fremont STARS Elementary School sat in the auditorium in suspense Friday afternoon. They were all waiting to hear the Fremont Post Office Postmaster, Myra Lynn, announce which class had won the stamp cancellation contest. Each class submitted...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Good Samaritan sees wreck, works to save injured man's life
A Hooks River Road man is in stable condition after a Wednesday accident, thanks in part to the efforts of a nurse who crawled into the man's car to perform CPR, authorities and hospital officials said. Home health care...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
North Drive teacher publishes 4th book
Growing up on a farm in Saulston, Gregory Brown enjoyed watching Captain Kangaroo on TV. "He would always read children's books on that show," he says. "I think that really got me hooked on books. ... He would take...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Guardian ad Litem hoping to create awareness of abuse
More than 400 pairs of shoes -- from baby booties to teen size -- will line the walls of the lobby of the courthouse during April. Guardian ad Litem hopes the shoes will be a visual reminder that child...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Public transport input sought
Why do some people ride the GATEWAY bus system while others don't? What is the system doing right or what needs to be changed or added? Those are the kind of questions that GATEWAY officials are hoping the public...Published: Mar 29, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 27, 2009
Soup kitchen fills need as economy remains concern
Community Soup Kitchen manager Doricia Benton sees new -- and sadder -- faces every day. In fact, in 2008, she had almost 8,000 more empty plates to fill -- and 2009 is also looking like it might send the numbers...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Administrator charged with DWI in Pender
A longtime administrator with Wayne County Public Schools was charged with driving while impaired last week by the North Carolina Highway Patrol in Pender County. Richard Sauls, 57, of Fremont, currently principal at Rosewood Ele-mentary School, was arrested on...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sing-sation
Wayne Christian School third-grader Anna Daniels, 9, sings a solo Thursday during a play performance in the school's gymnatorium. It was the school's annual third- and fourth-grade musical. The play was titled "Lifesong," and involved about 75 students. Anna sang...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Landfill gets new dropoff areas
DUDLEY -- Wayne County residents who haul trash to the county landfill no longer have to worry about negotiating their way along a muddy path only to end up in the wrong place and face-to-face with a bulldozer or a...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Arrest made in home robbery
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a man Thursday who allegedly took part in a home invasion and armed robbery that occurred Saturday at a Drummersville Road home, Sheriff's Capt. Tom Effler said today. Three men forced their way...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Teacher uses own experience, pens children's book on abuse
Selena Smith realized several years ago that victims of sexual abuse needed a voice. She just didn't think it would be hers. The incidents happened when she was very young, and involved an older child. For 25 years, except...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Residence fired at Delia Nickerson of Green Drive reported Wednesday that a window and shutter at her home sustained about $275 in damages after being shot earlier in the week, according to a report....Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Achieving garden greatness
Gardening doesn't have to be hard. In fact, it can be quite easy. You just have to do your research. Daniel Casey, owner of Casey Garden Center on U.S. Hwy. 70 West, and Karen Bussey, horticulture agent with the Cooperative...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsborough living history demonstration set for Saturday
Wayne County residents can walk the ground where 15,000 men fought for the control of the old Neuse River railroad bridge when Civil War re-enactors put on a living history demonstration at the site Saturday. The Battle of Goldsborough...Published: Mar 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Red Cross to hold memorial blood drive for Dora Perry
Dora Perry gave countless hours to the Red Cross for many years before her death Jan. 8. Now to honor her work and memory, Dudley Christian Church is holding a blood drive in her name Sunday from 12:30 until...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Police: Man found dead behind McIntyre killed self
Authorities have determined that the man found dead Wednesday morning behind McIntrye Funeral Home committed suicide. Forrest Myles, 51, of Wayne Avenue apparently suffered from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Goldsboro police Sgt. Chad Calloway said. Calloway added that the...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Daffodil festival set to bloom
Are you ready for spring and the smell of daffodils? The Fremont Daffodil Festival is scheduled for Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the festivities will begin with opening ceremonies along with the Fremont Memorial Park recognition,...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County's space needs bow to economy
The pressures of space-starved county departments are, at least for the foreseeable future, losing out to the even stronger pressures of a struggling economy. "Unless we see a real economic change all capital projects will be delayed by at...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Symphony of students
Joan Landry, assistant conductor for the N.C. Symphony, leads the orchestra's Wednesday morning performance before more than 1,500 Wayne County Public Schools fifth-graders at Kornegay Arena on the campus of Mount Olive College. Private and homeschooled fifth-graders also attended. Many...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Seymour Johnson to get $16 million in stimulus funds
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base will benefit from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to the tune of nearly $16 million, according to a Department of Defense Expenditure Plan for North Carolina military installations. And if existing contracts are any...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Show and Sale coming up soon
Scheduled for April 15-16 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds, the annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale is right around the corner. Sponsored by Wayne County Cooperative Extension and the Wayne County Livestock Development Association, the event is...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Going back in time
Josh Price, at the Charles B. Aycock Birthplace in Fremont, shows a group of students Wednesday the types of toys and games that children their ages may have played with during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The visit was...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Cash stolen from store Family Dollar employee Gary Heacox of Pikeville reported Tuesday that over $2,000 had been stolen from the South George Street discounter, according to a report. Bank deposit records for the store show a bag of...Published: Mar 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Wayne Community College sees enrollment increase
The economy has not slowed down enrollment at Wayne Community College, its president, Dr. Kay Albertson, said Tuesday night. In fact, spring enrollment for the spring semester is higher than the two previous years, she told the board of trustees....Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Project offers free prom dresses
It's almost that time of year again -- prom season -- when high school girls are looking for just the right dress and accessories for the big night. But what would you do if you couldn't afford a dress? Wayne...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
International flair
Protestant Preschool students Tyler Benitez, Katie Nichols and Adrianna Davis represent Australia during a Multi-Cultural Day parade at the school on Tuesday. The two-day celebration at the school gave students the opportunity to learn more about other countries, and also...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Davis to spend life in prison
A Goldsboro man will serve two life terms without parole for the murders of two men in August 2006. A jury returned a guilty verdict in the trial of Roderick Miles "Ricky" Davis Jr., 25, late Tuesday. He will...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Boyfriend slays woman, commits suicide
TURKEY -- A Goldsboro woman was shot and killed Monday evening in Sampson County by her estranged boyfriend, who also shot at her mother as she fled the scene with the couple's two small children, authorities said. The older woman...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Police investigate body found behind McIntyre
Goldsboro police were investigating a body found this morning behind McIntyre Funeral Home on South George Street, a police sergeant confirmed. Initial unconfirmed reports said a gun was found lying next to a body behind the home. Police Sgt....Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
The face of domestic violence
The face of domestic violence Marcela Rodriguez was a quiet, soft-spoken 24-year-old woman with three children who was liked by all who met her. She, along with her children, Eric Montenegro, 7, Jacquelin Perez, 2, and Jorge Perez, 3, had...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Rabies clinic next two Saturdays
Wayne County will hold the first of two rabies clinics this Saturday at three locations. They are Eastern Wayne High School from 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.; the old Pikeville School building at Pikeville from 1-3 p.m. and the...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
New K-9 making mark
Jayson Hill of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office poses with his K-9 partner, Shelly, a new member of the department. Shelly is a Belgian Malinois and has already proven herself as good detective, helping sniff out illegal drugs during a...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man sues business owner after dog attack
A man mauled by a pit bull has sued a Wayne County business owner, saying he did not do enough to prevent the animal from attacking him. Joseph Ingram has filed suit against George Robert "Bobby" Denning, alleging that...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin waits on word on fed funds
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County likely will receive notice soon that it has qualified for a federal loan for water and sewer improvements. Rural Center President Billy Ray Hall told the county Board of Commissions earlier this month that he...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
AgCarolina Financial to award college scholarships
Five scholarships are available to FFA members who are high school seniors, along with two scholarships to students attending N.C. A&T State University. Recipients must be residents of eastern N.C. Students who are enrolled in an agricultural related field at...Published: Mar 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Study will measure commuter rail interest
The North Carolina Railroad Co. will conduct a study to gauge interest in a proposed commuter rail line that would connect Goldsboro to Research Triangle Park and beyond. If the project moves forward, commuters in the Triangle and Triad areas...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Seymour Johnson AFB to offer improved veterinary services for airmen
When Daniel Ruffino picks an undersized tennis ball off his lawn, his dog, Guido, puts on his game face -- eyes focused, tongue hanging out, jaw trembling. And when the Air Force technical sergeant releases his Boston terrier-dachshund mix's favorite...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Jury now deliberating outcome of murder case
Jurors began deliberating Monday afternoon in a Wayne County Superior Court trial of a Goldsboro man accused of killing two people in 2006. Roderick Miles "Ricky" Davis Jr., 25, is accused of killing James Lee "Slick" Croom, 24, of...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive to apply for funds from stimulus package to repair sewers
MOUNT OLIVE -- Town officials are hopeful that having a shovel-ready sewer rehabilitation project on hand and the support of the Clean Water Management Trust Fund will enhance the town's chances of receiving $717,000 in federal stimulus funds. Town...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Golden LEAF funds in sights of some, but no change yet
Faced with a $2 billion budget shortfall next year, some state legislators have been looking toward other funding sources to help make up the deficit, including the master tobacco settlement funds that are directed toward the Golden LEAF Foundation....Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Clint Marable of North Carolina Street told police on Saturday that two unknown black males, both about 21 years old, 5 feet 8 inches tall, about 140 to 160 pounds with a slim build, one with a...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County courthouse shoe display will mark incidents of child abuse
The county courthouse atrium next month will be adorned with hundreds of children's shoes to draw attention to child abuse in the county and state and the public's support is being sought to help make that happen. Each of...Published: Mar 24, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, March 23, 2009
Duplin considers new early college offering
KENANSVILLE -- The James Kenan School of Engineering could move to the James Sprunt Community College campus as an early college high school if the Duplin County Board of Education approves. The school board met recently with a packed house...Published: Mar 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Girl Scouts faced tough cookie sales
A weak economy is likely the culprit behind a drop in Girl Scout cookie sales, say Scout leaders. But that didn't stop some girls from still selling a truckload of the sweet treats. Cookie sales officially ended last week....Published: Mar 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Grants offer more funds for housing repair work
Qualifying county homeowners next month may begin applying for a chance to have their homes repaired through a $400,000 Single Family Rehabilitation grant from the N.C. Housing Finance Agency. Commissioners at their recent meeting adopted the paperwork necessary to...Published: Mar 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Volunteers get advanced training to minister to patients, families
Local ministers are learning how to better serve their parishoners as part of a six-month program designed to train local clergy who volunteer as part of the Wayne Memorial Hospital chaplain program. The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education Inc. requires...Published: Mar 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Elementary students see successful 'men of color'
Percy Arrington, former chief cameraman for NBC News, spent 30 years of his career covering the White House, working with six presidents -- from Gerald Ford to George W. Bush. On Friday, he could be found taking snapshots of third-grade...Published: Mar 23, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Jobless rate 9.2; but better news ahead
Unemployment in Wayne County jumped more than a percentage point in January to a 20-year high of 9.2 percent as rates rose in all 100 of North Carolina's counties. The rate, which rose 1.3 percent from 7.9 percent in...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Serving up 'Hot Grog'
Geoff Hulse, left, portrays the infamous pirate Blackbeard as Rosalyn Lomax and Kirk Keller play the parts of Read and Stede Bonnet during the Wayne County Reads production of "Hot Grog" Friday in Moffatt Auditorium at Wayne Community College. The...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Officials: Air show, festival will boost revenue
Despite growing concerns over the state of the economy, local officials remain confident that a boost to Wayne County coffers is only a month away. Crowds in the tens of thousands are expected in Mount Olive and Goldsboro the week...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Dogs on the mend
Rain drizzled from a gray sky, but a crackling fire chased away the chill in Kitty McBride's Raleigh townhome as she curled on a couch with her three dogs. It would be hard to guess that the little pack snuggled...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Memories recalled of city's first black chief
Before it became state law to be "buckled up," one of Goldsboro's police chiefs resisted an order from City Hall to wear a seat belt. Not because he objected to the improved safety. Because it would have wrinkled his...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Legislators share views on schools, roads, funds
Wayne County's state legislative delegation gathered at the Goldsboro Country Club Friday morning to answer questions and to give a snapshot of what is happening right now in Raleigh. So far, only two months into the session, much of...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Pikeville commissioners discuss Town Hall status
PIKEVILLE -- Pikeville Town Commissioners met Thursday evening at the Community Center to start discussions of the upcoming budget. An even though the session was more of a wish list to start out this year's budget process, with officials knowing...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Murder trial resumes Monday
A jury will return to Wayne County Superior Court Monday to continue to hear evidence in the case of a double murder. Roderick Miles Davis Jr., 25, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the deaths of James...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Most Duplin leaders oppose changing boards' makeup
Duplin's school board and county commission aren't pleased with a bill that State Sen. Charlie Albertson has introduced to have voters decide whether to add a seventh member to both boards. The bill, S550, has been referred to the Senate's...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Military contractor fair Wednesday
R&O, Atherton Construction and The North Carolina Military Business Center are working in conjunction to support an "R&O and Atherton Construction Subcontracting Fair" Wednesday at Wayne Community College in the Wayne Learning Center from 1-5 p.m. Other sponsors of the...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Goldsboro Host Lions Club observes 70th anniversary
The Goldsboro Host Lions Club turned 70 years old on Wednesday and on Thursday night about 70 people helped celebrate the club's anniversary. The crowd gathered at the St. Luke United Methodist Church and represented numerous area Lions clubs, including...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Minister traveling cross-country by horse
SEVEN SPRINGS -- The Rev. Ken Downey passed through this small Wayne County town this week, on his way to making a cross-country trip on horseback -- much the way 18th century circuit riders carried their message. Downey, who hails...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Butterfield rep fields questions
A representative from Congressman G.K. Butterfield's Wilson field office met with more than 30 people in Goldsboro Friday to discuss constituent issues. Most of the concerns voiced, said caseworker Rosena Ricks, involved veteran's and Social Security claims and disability...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Battle of Goldsborough history program Saturday
Civil War buffs will get a chance Saturday, March 28, to see what life was like for the average soldier when a living history program is held at the site of the Battle of Goldsborough Bridge off the Old Mount...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Barrow is recognized by national homebuilders
Ron Barrow of RSB Home Builder Inc., recently became a member of the select group of professional builders, remodelers and other industry professionals nationwide who have earned the certified green professional designation. The program is administered by the National Association...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne chapter of the Red Cross will Ride for the Red this Saturday
Local motorcyclists will be revving up their engines Saturday to raise money for the local chapter of the American Red Cross. It is part of the Wayne County chapter's annual Heroes Campaign. The Ride for the Red is sponsored by...Published: Mar 22, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 20, 2009
Murder defendant testifies at trial
A man accused of killing two men in August 2006 took the stand in his own defense Thursday, as his attorney argued the shooting was an act of self-defense. Roderick Miles Davis Jr., 25, faces two counts of first-degree murder....Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Bill calls for new Wayne agricultural center
Local legislators have introduced bills in both the state House and Senate to begin work on a long-sought regional agricultural center for Wayne County. And while they acknowledge that funding for such a project may be a long shot...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County discusses property rights, zoning
Anyone who buys property in Wayne County should be notified of any existing plans to build or widen roads across the property, county Commissioner Jack Best said at the board's meeting this week. Best compared the situation to informing...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Area no longer 'abnormally dry'
For the first time since early February, Wayne County isn't on the state drought scale. The weather has helped to drop the county from the abnormally dry category on the U.S. Drought Monitor scale, with rain as a common factor...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
I-795 work could cost less, repairs to start soon
Work to repair Interstate 795's crumbling pavement could be under way soon and could cost "substantially" less than a projected $14 million to $22 million price tag. The state last October undertook an almost $500,000 "winterization" project to replace...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne Community College offers continuing education courses
Wayne Community College Continuing Education will start three courses this spring that lead to professional certifications. Auto Safety and Emission Control Inspection and Auto Safety and OBD (on-board diagnostics) Emission Control Inspection prepare auto technicians and service personnel to...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Burglary A brick wall suffered $500 in damages after unknown suspects broke through it, gaining entry to H&H Body Shop on South John Street sometime Wednesday or late Tuesday, according to a police report. A game system, about $70...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning to enjoy your outdoors
Spring is here, and if you want to smell flowers as you sit on your porch in the next few months, you better plant them now. Darnay Barefoot, owner of Landscape Design of Goldsboro Inc., says that Wayne County residents...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Farmers receive top honors at annual banquet
Farming and the farming community aren't changing, they already have changed and it is up to the farmers to tell their stories and to have a voice in the community. That was County Manager Lee Smith's message Thursday night...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Bentonville living history program Saturday, Sunday
Civil War period re-enactors will demonstrate how average soldiers and civilians lived Saturday and Sunday at the Bentonville Battlefield Historic Site west of Goldsboro. The weekend marks the 144th anniversary of the battle, which was the largest ever fought in...Published: Mar 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Trial begins in pair of murders
Testimony in the trial of a man accused of two 2006 murders was expected to continue today in Wayne County Superior Court. Roderick Miles Davis Jr., was 23 when he was accused of killing James Lee Croom, 24, of...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro ranks as one of lowest for tax burden in state
Goldsboro citizens carry a lower tax burden than people in 28 other similar-sized cities in North Carolina, according to a February report from the John Locke Foundation. Goldsboro ranked 29th among municipalities with 25,000 or more residents, placing it...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Speaking for Zeb: Family wants driver to answer for 2008 death at county intersection
When Mable Langston dropped off her husband on Feb. 28, 2008, he was just picking up his truck from the shop. It was the last time she would see him. Zeb Langston Jr., the son of Zeb and Emma...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
O'Berry stands to lose approximately $4.7 million a month if deficiences are not corrected
After announcing Tuesday that federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid surveyors have completed their work at O'Berry Neuro-Medical Center, state officials said Wednesday that the center could stand to lose approximately $4.7 million a month if it does not...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
New Duplin County economic development director hired
Duplin County has hired a new economic development director, Heather Sauls. Ms. Sauls currently works as vice president of client development for the Piedmont Triad Partner-ship, which helps with economic development for 12 counties in the Triad area. Ms. Sauls...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont working to keep sewer system repairs money
FREMONT -- After hearing a few weeks ago that the Clean Water Management Trust Fund took back money that was granted to Fremont for improvements to the sewer system, the Board of Aldermen learned Tuesday night that other funding for...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Health Dept. puts an end to smoking at building
The Health Department is now a tobacco-free campus. The Board of Health Wednesday adopted the more restrictive smoking policy and agreed to purchase signage announcing there is no smoking within 50 feet of the premises. As the Health Department gears...Published: Mar 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
DGDC seeks Union Station stories
You won't find any passengers stepping into Union Station for years. The railsides there have been quiet for more than four decades. But downtown officials hope the stories born at the station during the 60 years it was operational are...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Commissioners reject private liquor sales in county
A resolution in opposition to privately operated liquor stores and another in support of continued state funding of the Criminal Justice Partnership Program were unanimously approved Tuesday by commissioners. The board stopped short of promising to use county funds...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Memories aweigh: Five former Navy buddies reunite
Fifty years ago, five young men made a pact -- joining hundreds of others across the state in a highly publicized mass enlistment. They thought boot camp would be more like summer camp, that a few years in the Navy...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Reaction mixed on Perdue's state spending plan, taxes
Local legislators got their first look at Gov. Beverly Perdue's 2009-10 budget proposal Tuesday and most came away slightly squeamish over the proposed tax increases. Despite offering cuts in nearly every sector of state government, the governor is still...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Honda dealership clears out vehicles
Honda of Goldsboro and Hyundai of Goldsboro on West Grantham Street have closed their doors and emptied their parking lots. The local Honda dealership, which has been sued in Wayne County Superior Court for failure to pay thousands of...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
O'Berry gets list of factors to correct
Officials from the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid completed their investigation at O'Berry Neuro-Medical Center Tuesday and have given the facility 30 days to correct its deficiencies. The federal officials arrived at the agency Friday following the death...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Local musicians, singers form gospel group
Several area worship leaders have pooled their talents to form a gospel group and will soon celebrate their first anniversary. The Remnant, with 15 members representing several different churches, has an age range from a 9-year-old to members in...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Thieves cut through wall, safe Brian Norton of the Ruby Tuesday restaurant on North Park Drive reported Monday morning that someone had cut through a wall and safe, taking an undetermined amount of money from the restaurant, according to a...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Painting the mall
More than 1,600 pieces of art representing students from kindergarten to 12th grade from the county's 32 schools are on display through Saturday evening at Berkeley Mall. The art has been on display since last Saturday and includes pencil drawings,...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Kerr receives Long Leaf Pine award
Former state Sen. John H. Kerr III of Goldsboro received the Order of Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest civilian honor, and a plaque of appreciation from the N.C. Rural Economic Development Center during a recognition ceremony Feb. 25...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin board may back Faison in ETJ fight
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County board of commissioners is considering helping the town of Faison fight a bill proposed in the General Assembly that would take the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction away and give it to Sampson County. Commissioners decided Monday...Published: Mar 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The luck of the Irish
The first-grade students of Kristi Thornton, left, and Jessica Shoneck, right, of Brogden Primary School were shocked and surprised this morning when they arrived to find their classroom in disarray. Left behind was a note from a leprechaun explaining that...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Board says studies key to highway planning
Wayne County Planning Board members are voicing frustration with the Goldsboro Metropolitan Planning Organization's rejection of their recommendation that highway plans include economic impact studies. The Planning Board at its February meeting endorsed the MPO's 13-point highway priority list,...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Maplewood residents protesting proposed zoning change at corner
Residents of the Maplewood subdivision spoke out at the City Council meeting Monday night, expressing concerns over proposed rezoning of a land parcel on Berkeley Boulevard at Maplewood Drive. The property would be rezoned from office and institutional to neighborhood...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Comments split on school changes
A public hearing Monday night to discuss the school district's plans to reorganize four schools drew fewer than two dozen people and only six sharing concerns. Evenly divided -- three supportive, three others opposed -- the session was adjourned in...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Angel Food program offers low-cost food to city families
Locals suffering from the struggling economy are getting a helping hand from the city of Goldsboro and Angel Food Ministries, a low-cost food distribution program that every month helps more than 500,000 people put food on their tables. The Angel...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Victim shot in leg Carlos Bernard, 39, of Columbia, Md., reported a suspect shot him in the leg while sitting in his car on the street in the 700 block of Pineview Avenue, police said. Krisser Ayber, 19, of...Published: Mar 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, March 16, 2009
Public workshop on transportation set for April 1
The public will have an opportunity Wednesday evening, April 1, to voice comments and concerns about existing and future public transportation services in the county. The workshop, to be held 4 to 7 p.m. in the large meeting room...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville considers allowing citizens to use golf carts on town's streets
Pikeville residents might soon be able to jump in their golf carts and head to the grocery store or the post office. Town officials have requested legislation that would allow the use of golf carts within the town limits to...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pedestrian hit while crossing Berkeley Boulevard
A man walking across Berkeley Boulevard was struck by a car near but not at its intersection with Cashwell Drive about 9 this morning. Charles Samuel Mason, age unknown, was crossing Berkeley, leaving the Chevron gas station and heading...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
City area ranks in top 50 for identity crimes
The Goldsboro area ranked No. 46 in the nation for reports of identity theft, according to a Federal Trade Commission report released in February. According to the FTC, Goldsboro logged 194 complaints of identity theft between Jan. 1 and Dec....Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Rosewood Middle School captures crown in book battle
A team from Rosewood Middle School won the recent "Battle of the Books" competition for Wayne County Public Schools, beating out three-time reigning champion Norwayne Middle. Norwayne came in second place. The 23rd annual event was held March 2...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County asked to fund program
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday are expected to be asked to find $121,255 in local dollars to continue a state-funded program that this past year saved the county some $1.2 million, but is now facing the state's budget ax. The...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
City Council to discuss zoning tonight
Planning concerns will take center stage at the City Council meeting tonight, with six public hearings scheduled to take place. A contested zoning change proposed by Dillon Wooten Jr., which would rezone the northeast corner of Berkeley Boulevard and...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Barber named to national board
The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, pastor of Greenleaf Christian Church Disciples of Christ and the president of the North Carolina conference of the NAACP, was sworn in and seated on the national NAACP board of directors Feb. 21...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Blackbeard subject of lecture tonight at Mount Olive College
The Wayne County Reads project is wrapping up with a presentation tonight at Mount Olive College by an expert on pirate history and a theatrical performance Thursday and March 20-21. The featured book in this year's reading campaign is...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin school leaders question study's findings
KENANSVILLE -- A consulting firm that recommended a number of ways the Duplin County school system could save money received mixed reviews Thursday night during a joint meeting of school board and county commissioners. The commissioners hired Evergreen Solutions last...Published: Mar 16, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Wayne County Republicans elect new officers, seek new direction
In a vote that one candidate said would determine the course of the Wayne County Republican Party for the next several years, delegates met Saturday morning at the Wayne Center to select a new slate of officers. In the...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Winning hearts and minds through full stomachs
Helping more than 100,000 people in an hour may seem like a daunting feat. But about 350 Seymour Johnson Air Force Base personnel and their families did just that Saturday morning at the MERCI Center in Rosewood. They braved...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Brides still finding ways to celebrate despite economy
Ronnesha Reid is not hiring a coordinator for her wedding. Instead she's leaning on her family to help decorate the church, make wedding favors and prepare food for the reception. For her and other brides-to-be, the wedding bells are...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Fremont to make changes to town charter
According to Fremont's town charter, officials must keep a list of the town's "white voters" separate from its "colored voters." But officials are hoping to change the legal document establishing the town and its ordinances to an updated, more...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Next debate: Property rights v. new county roads
Preserving the county's thoroughfare rights-of-way may be important, but, said members of the county Planning Board last week, they must also be balanced against the rights of property owners. The issue came up at the group's meeting last week,...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Perdue promises aid to guardsmen, bases
Gov. Beverley Perdue promised "specific investments" Saturday to support active duty military and National Guard members and their families. Families at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base are among those who can expect continued state funding for recreation and family services...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Center Street Jam gets money donated
Thousands of dollars have been raised in the past few weeks but Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. executive director Julie Thompson is still only cautiously optimistic about the fate of this summer's Center Street Jam lineup. In fact, if the DGDC...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Sheriff's Office, GPD get $272K in grants
The Goldsboro Police Department and Wayne County Sheriff's Office could be receiving more than $270,000 through the Bryne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) formula grant program. The city is projected to receive $181,427 and the Sheriff's Office $90,432. Goldsboro Chief...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Review of patient death at O'Berry continues
State officials confirmed Friday that investigators from the federal Centers of Medicare and Medicaid are at O'Berry Center following the death of a female resident on March 11. "We have been informed that Centers for Medicare and Medicaid have...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Stimulus could help fund water projects
MOUNT OLIVE -- Town officials are trying to balance the news last week that the town has lost more than $700,000 destined for much-needed sewer improvements, with the possibility that the need might still be met by federal stimulus...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Sibling stabs dad to stop alleged assault
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office charged a Goldsboro area man for allegedly choking his 9-year-old autistic son until he turned purple, forcing his 11-year-old daughter to stab him in the arm to stop him, authorities say. John Alexander Saywer, 36,...Published: Mar 15, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 13, 2009
More officers getting trained to ride Segway
Steven Powers isn't the only Goldsboro police officer riding a Segway anymore. The department still has only one of the two-wheeled vehicles, but police officials say they might seek another in the future because they believe the unit has good...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Patient death at O'Berry labeled 'unexpected'
Four employees at O'Berry Neuro-Medical Treatment Center are on paid investigatory leave following the death of a female facility resident Wednesday evening. But, while a state report classifies the death as "unexpected," and officials are calling it "unusual," they...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin schools asking state for lottery money
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County school officials say they will soon make some badly needed school repairs, provided their $2.5 million share of the state's lottery funds has not been reclaimed by Gov. Beverly Perdue in her attempt to make...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Legislators propose bill to undo city annexation
Two Wayne County legislators introduced bills Thursday to deannex the Buck Swamp and Falling Brook areas that were recently brought into Goldsboro's city limits. In the N.C. House, Rep. Efton Sager, R-Wayne, said he put the bill forward at...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Last chance to sign up for Neuse Senior Games is approaching
The early deadline to sign up for the Neuse River Senior Games and Silver Arts competition is today. Already 75 participants have registered. For anyone registering after today, the fee is $15. All participants must be registered by March...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County schools planning teacher job fair April 4
Wayne County Public Schools will hold its annual teacher job fair on Saturday, April 4, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the gymnasium at Goldsboro High School. Prospective teachers can visit and learn about the programs and job...Published: Mar 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Two rabid racoons found in Mar Mac
Two rabid raccoons, both of whom had contact with local family pets, have been found this month in the Mar Mac area, Wayne County Department of Animal Control Services announced Wednesday. "Most pet owners don't know what the law...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Community getting tips on cutting back electricity bills
PIKEVILLE -- Leigh Ann and Doug Wyckoff are tired of seeing $270 bills come in the mail every month for their mobile home in Pikeville, mostly for electricity provided by ElectriCities. But town employees are hoping a new and free...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mural work
Local artist Dreamweaver works on creating an outine for a mural on the side of Torero's Mexican Restaurant in downtown Goldsboro on Wednesday afternoon. The Arts Council of Wayne County received a Target-in-Communities grant to complete the mural project. The...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont could lose funding to make sewer improvements
Town officials -- and residents -- could save some money on their monthly sewer bills, but only if the Clean Water Management Trust Fund doesn't pull funding for much-needed sewer improvements that would decrease the amount of rainwater in the...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County still pushing for 'certified' applicants
Commitment and funding by the county are being hailed as the reasons Wayne County leads the state in the number of Career Readiness Certificates issued -- with 2,428 awarded thus far. It is even more of an accomplishment since...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tests measuring workers' skill sets
The Career Readiness Certificates testing program is more than just another test for students, it is a way to measure real-world work skills needed to acquire and to be successful in a job, said Diane Ivey, Wayne County Occupational Readiness...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro police and Sheriff's Office cars collide
Two law enforcement vehicles were damaged in a crash Tuesday night between a Wayne County Sheriff's Office car and a Goldsboro police car, according to a state Highway Patrol report. Investigating Trooper J.B. Wiggs said that no one was...Published: Mar 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Zoning idea gets first look by board
An area west of Goldsboro along U.S. 70 to the Johnston County line and the area surrounding what will be the U.S. 70 Bypass interchange at Wayne Memorial Drive Tuesday night were floated as potential locations for the county's...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Legislators: Show us how not to cut without tax hike
Legislators representing Wayne County had mixed reactions to Gov. Beverly Perdue's State of the State address Monday night, but most agreed that it set the tone for what they expect to be a much smaller budget than the last...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Renovated library now open again in Fremont
FREMONT -- Seven months after closing for renovations, the library in Fremont is open again -- thanks to its community supporters. During a grand reopening ceremony held Monday, Friends of the Fremont Library Committee and about 30 other residents toured...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne Country Day honored for literary magazine
Seung Pyo Son, Ryan to his friends at Wayne Country Day School, has an avid interest in graphic design but admits he had no formal training. So he was surprised when his editorial efforts of the school's literary magazine...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Six students to compete Saturday for title of Miss Southern Wayne
On Saturday, March 14, six young ladies will compete for in the Miss Southern Wayne Pageant. The pageant will begin at 7 p.m. at the Dillard Middle School Auditorium. The theme of this year's pageant is "Southern Wayne Flight...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Help for Medicare beneficiaries sought
Wayne County Services on Aging is trying to reach people on Medicare and who need assistance paying for their prescription drugs. There is a federal low income subsidy program, called Extra Help, that Medicare beneficiares may be eligible for...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Red Cross sets March bloodmobile schedule
Following is the March bloodmobile schedule for the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross: Today: Wayne County Day School from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday: Meadow Lane Elementary School, 2 to 6:30 p.m. Saturday: Northview Baptist Church,...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin officials aim to build new vocational magnet school
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County officials decided this week to pursue the creation of a new magnet school to focus on vocational and technical training. Voting Tuesday night, the Duplin County Board of Education unanimously agreed to build the school...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Battle of the Books set for Thursday
Middle school students will be tested on their reading skills Thursday as Wayne County Public Schools hosts the 23rd annual Battle of the Books competition. The quiz bowl-type competition starts at 9 a.m. in the Dillard Middle School auditorium,...Published: Mar 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Making 'Our Town' their town
The fictional town of Grover's Corners is coming to life on stage at the Paramount Theatre in a way celebrated playwright Thornton Wilder would never have forseen. The Goldsboro Ballet will present "Our Town," a ballet interpretation of the award-winning...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials say 'no' to putting marriage issue on agenda
One vote by county commissioners happened so quickly last Tuesday amid the confusion and turmoil of a standing-room-only crowd opposed to a proposed housing project that most people probably missed it. With little discussion, county commissioners by a 3-4...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
School district confident $5 million in lottery funds safe
School officials had not planned to empty their lottery fund account so soon. But that was before the governor announced the last quarter's proceeds would be reverted to the state to help with the budget shortfall. Then, said Nan...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Motorcycle party nets $10,000 for Edgewood students
Six years ago, area farmer Randy Gray decided to throw a party for a few of his motorcycle buddies. Response was so great, he toyed with the idea of taking it a step further. "I decided that since I was...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fire department asks town to annex new station
PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Fire Department has asked officials to annex their future fire station and make it an official part of town. Mayor Herbert Sieger and the commissioners agreed to let Town Administrator Kathie Fields explore annexing the...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne GOP convention set for Saturday
The Wayne County Republican Party will hold its annual precinct meetings and convention Saturday at the Wayne Center at the corner of Chestnut and George streets. Party members will hear from a number of guest speakers as well as...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Red Cross offers March class list
The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will offer the following classes this month: Adult CPR/Automated External Defibrillator -- March 16 from 6 to 10 p.m. Child and Infant CPR -- March 17 from 6 to 10 p.m....Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Vehicle 'burned beyond recognition' A city of Goldsboro employee said he found a burned out car in an open land area near the 2500 block of Royall Avenue, after the fire department had responded to a grass fire there on...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville employees to help make residents' homes energy efficient
Pikeville, a town where residents struggle with electric costs because of a deal penned in the early 1980s, will address the issue by having town employees help to install energy-saving devices, an official said. Town Administrator Kathie Fields said Wednesday...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Murder suspect returned from Florida
A murder suspect was returned to Goldsboro from Florida yesterday afternoon, police said. Anthony Dwayne Jackson, of North Leslie Street, is wanted in connection with the shooting of Barbara Bandy. Jackson was in Wayne County Jail as of about...Published: Mar 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, March 9, 2009
Teacher trainee academy gives a head start
Amanda Edwards has always known exactly what she wants to be when she grows up -- a teacher, just like her aunt. The Southern Wayne High School junior even had a plan. It included going to East Carolina University for...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Longtime volunteer dies at 86
J.R. Nickens, known in the Goldsboro community for more than 20 years as the friendly face behind the desk at the Family Y, died Saturday. He was 86. Nickens was honored at a recent reception at the Y and...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Getting ready for spring
Eight-year-old Jeff Bland tries to pull a shopping cart from Stoney Creek Saturday. Jeff, his father Will, sister Lucy and others including Ben Seegars, Peter Roethling and Bob Waller were out Saturday in an effort by the Stoney Creek Park...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Commission discusses county's role in schools
Education might have been just one of many of topics bandied about by commissioners during their Thursday planning session, but it clearly emerged as the board's top priority. Not as clear is the route to be taken to address...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Puppy mill legislation introduced in Raleigh
Responding to the recent raid on Thornton Kennels and the seizure of nearly 300 dogs, state Sen. Don Davis introduced a bill Thursday regulating such so-called puppy mills. Davis, D-Greene, said he decided to introduce the legislation after seeing...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Senior center offers tax help
Wayne County Services on Aging, with help from AARP, is offering free tax assistance for seniors. An AARP tax assistant with be at the Wayne County Senior Center, 100 S. John St., on Tuesdays beginning Tuesday and continuing until...Published: Mar 9, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 8, 2009
United by Fire: Seymour fighter jets integral part of Pope combat saga
There were few words exchanged when Staff Sgt. Zachary Rhyner and Capt. Jeremy Duffey were reunited at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Friday morning. That's all they needed. Their bond was born nearly a year before in Shok Valley, Afghanistan....Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Kwast will lead expeditionary wing in Afghanistan that includes SJAFB sqadrons
When members of the 4th Fighter Wing's 335th and 336th fighter squadrons deploy to Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, later this year, a familiar face will be waiting to command them. Former 4th Commander Col. Steve Kwast confirmed Friday that he has...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
lawsuit involving braswell and former magistrate settled
A lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice against the N.C. Admin-istrative Office of the Courts and former Superior Court Judge Jerry Braswell has been settled. The lawsuit, which was filed by the federal Justice Department in November...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Commissioners talk zoning
Wayne County commissioners might have been spared getting caught in the crossfire of last week's fiery standoff between a developer and the people opposed to his low-rent housing proposal if the county had some type of zoning in place....Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Grantham: Their home in the country
GRANTHAM -- Ask anybody in this community what makes it so special and more than likely the answer will be the same -- the people. "What makes Grantham a great place to live are the people who live out...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Lt. Gov. helps kick off businesss expo in Duplin
KENANSVILLE -- The resilience of small business and a fighting spirit are going to get North Carolinians through the current tough times, Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton told Duplin County leaders Friday afternoon . Dalton helped kick off the Duplin County...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Barber among speakers at anti-Fibrowatt rally
CLINTON -- The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber of Goldsboro, state president of the NAACP, will be among the speakers Saturday, March 21, at a rally in opposition to construction of litter-fired power plant in Sampson County. The rally...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Gail Charles to lead Cultural and Heritage Consortium
Today's slumping economy makes it more important than ever for area businesses and organizations to work together to serve the community and to promote tourism, Wayne County Cultural and Heritage Consortium chairman Gail Charles says. "And the consortium is more...Published: Mar 8, 2009 9:57 AM Full Story
Friday, March 6, 2009
County not sure funding available
Wayne County does not yet have the anticipated $5 million in lottery funds in hand that are needed to kick start a $23 million school facilities plan. County Manager Lee Smith and school officials appear optimistic that the county...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Roosevelt impersonator to perform at Scout kickoff benefit
An entertainer who portrays President Theodore Roosevelt will appear at the kickoff event for the Friends of Scouting Campaign this month. Joe Wiegand will arrive in character as the Roughrider president at 6 p.m. for social hour in the...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Deputy cleared in Kenly shooting
The Johnston County District Attorney says a deputy was justified in the shooting death of Reginald Lee Witcher during a confrontation with lawmen. Sgt. Joel Keith Garner shot and killed Reginald Lee Witcher at his home near Kenly after police...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Southern Wayne graduate takes trip to South Africa
If you think the economy's bad here, you ought to visit South Africa, says Jerome Frederick Jr. of Dudley. The 2004 graduate of Southern Wayne High School spent six weeks there as part of his course of study at Morehouse...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Honoring their elders
Joshua McCoy, a senior at Goldsboro High School, helps Mattie Oates with her trivia worksheet at Goldsboro's Senior Americans Appreciation Day Thursday morning in the school's media center. The annual tradition drew around 100 former students and educators, family members...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Child predator workshop offered
The Mental Health Association of Wayne County is sponsoring a workshop to teach parents, teachers, law enforcement, doctors and others who work with children on the dangers of child predators on the Internet. On Wednesday, March 18, Starr Barbaro...Published: Mar 6, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Officials take close look at WCC work skills program
Wayne Community College is doing a good job of expanding and diversifying its technical offerings, said representatives of a grant program designed to help community colleges prepare workers for the type of jobs they will hold in the future. A...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Experts take look at Goldsboro's plan for renovated train station
There are ghost marks on the walls of Union Station. But far from indicating any sort of paranormal activity, these indicators show where old structures like posts and stairs used to be, before they were removed or rotted away, explained...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County eyes shift in alcohol site sales
Revenues and control are at stake should the state allow privately-owned and operated "agency stores" to sell the liquor now being sold through the state's ABC stores, Mike Myrick, chairman of the Wayne County ABC Board, told commissioners Tuesday...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Auto thefts *Alvin Allen of North Running Deer Circle, Dudley reported Tuesday night that his 2007 Kia Optima, gold in color, had been stolen from a parking lot in the 600 block of West Ash Street. The vehicle is worth...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Railroad crossing closings continue today in Mount Olive
Most railroad crossings in Mount Olive will be closed today as part the CSX Railroad maintenance project. To be closed are Genoa Road at Dudley and Northeast Church Road just north of town and Talton Avenue, Park Avenue, College...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
SECU awards $750,000 grant to Kitty Askins
Home Health and Hospice, or 3HC, has received a $750,000 grant from the State Employees Credit Union Foundation for the expansion of Kitty Askins Hospice Center. The gift brings the total donations to $2 million of the $4 million...Published: Mar 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Southern Wayne High School teacher arrested
A Southern Wayne High School teacher accused of a sex offense turned herself in to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office on Monday. An investigation was launched into allegations against exceptional children's teacher Shannon Grace Herring, 32, on Nov. 18, when...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools say lottery funds are not lost
Facing the state's recent announcement that lottery funds will be pulled to offset budget shortfalls, school officials say they are "confident" they will be able to proceed with construction projects that are under way. The matter was briefly discussed during...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Commission calls meeting for questions
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday afternoon had plenty of questions about the rapidly approaching schools facilities project -- questions they directed at each other instead of the school board that just minutes before had left a joint meeting. Commissioners expressed...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Residents speak out against housing plan
A group of Rosewood residents lambasted Wayne County commissioners for nearly an hour Tuesday in opposition to a low-income housing project planned for their neighborhood. The gathering at times grew unruly, with audience members shouting out their opinions. Commissioners...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Seven pounds of meth found in Fremont
FREMONT -- A Fremont area man is being held under $1 million bond in the Wayne County Jail after he was found with almost seven pounds of methamphetamine at his home Monday, the Sheriff's Office announced Tuesday. Feliciano Salinas...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin boards upset over vote change bill
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education both are opposing a local bill moving through the state Legislature that would keep their chairmen from voting unless there is a tie. The Duplin County Board...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC Foundation helps to make college possible
The Foundation of Wayne Community College held its awards presentation and reception recently, with more than 100 scholarship recipients taking the stage due to the generosity of the many donors who keep the organization's scholarship program thriving. Chairman of...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sheriff explains mailing
Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders wants county residents to know that a mailing from the North Carolina Sheriff's Association does not benefit him directly, although he is a member of the organization. Many Wayne residents have already received the...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Suspicious fire A fire at 207 Arrowhead Lane in Dudley is under investigation as a suspicious fire, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Arson investigators arrived at the scene just after midnight on Tuesday, at the home owned by Edgar...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Attempted murder suspect violates parole
The suspect in a September shooting on Maple Street has been sentenced to 120 days in jail for misdemeanor probation violations, court records show. Derrick Raymont Best, 27, is accused of the attempted murder of Alicia Griffin, and also...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Local group working to improve child safety
With the bulk of childhood injuries and deaths happening at home, Safe Kids Wayne County is urging parents and caregivers to take basic safety precautions. Nearly 2,100 children in the U.S. ages 14 and under die from accidental injuries...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man pleads guilty in 2008 Warsaw stabbing
KENANSVILLE -- Andrew Williams pleaded guilty Monday to voluntary manslaughter in Duplin County Superior Court in the June 20, 2008 stabbing death of Michael Shane Ray. Williams, 34, also pleaded guilty to malicious conduct by a prisoner for spitting...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man to speak on moving cemeteries
A man who moves cemeteries that are in the path of highways or othe development will speak at a meeting of the Sons of Confederate Veterans on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Seven Springs Restaurant. Ward Sutton of Rocky...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Students discuss black citizenship in America
Two young scholars were honored Thursday night at the STOP The Funeral Initiative's first annual Black History Month oratorical contest at the Eastern Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Goldsboro. Patrick Edwards, 16, of North Lenoir High School won first place...Published: Mar 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Bell makes case to commissioners
The 60-plus Rosewood residents who created a standing-room-only environment at the Wayne County Board of Commissioners meeting this morning followed the board's rules for the first 10 minutes of developer John Bell's presentation -- remaining quiet while their opponent spoke...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Arrest made in shooting, murder of city woman
One of two men accused in connection with the shooting of Barbara Bandy as she sat in her car outside her North Leslie Street home has been caught. Goldsboro police said Anthony Dwayne Jackson, who also lives on North...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Maritime historian shares stories of female pirates
Historian and storyteller Connie Mason of Morehead City told a Wayne County Reads audience Monday night that female pirates were just as colorful, and dangerous, as their male counterparts. And despite a widely held belief that women at sea brought...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Former teacher in court on charge
A former Mount Olive Middle School teacher facing a sexually related charge with a former student made his first appearance in court Monday. In a short appearance before a District Court judge, former keyboarding instructor Jerry Dortch was represented by...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Concern raised on closures; city seeks stimulus
Concerned citizen and parent Charles Wright asked the Goldsboro City Council Monday night to consider carefully the proposed school reorganization that would mean merging Belfast and Southern Academy alternative schools into the same facility. "I find that unacceptable for several...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
CSX working on railroad crossings
Several Wayne County railroad crossing will be closed starting today as work crews for CSX Railroad continue their swing through the county working on intersections The crossings are Outlaw Road, Sleepy Creek Road, Arrington Bridge Road, Old Mount Olive...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Board to seek comment on school plan
A public hearing will be held to discuss Wayne County Public Schools' proposal to reorganize four of its schools, a move expected to save the district $945,000. The Board of Education set March 16 as the meeting time to hear...Published: Mar 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, March 2, 2009
First arrest made in Bandy shooting
Goldsboro police have made one arrest in the death of Barbara Bandy, catching up with one of the suspects in Miami, Fla., Sgt. Chad Calloway said. Anthony Dwayne Jackson, last known to live on North Leslie Street, faces one...Published: Mar 2, 2009 3:46 PM Full Story
Recruiter who signed up airman was also there for his retirment
The familiar hand that stuck an Air Force retirement pin onto Charles Nail's uniform Friday took him back more than 30 years. He shook that hand back in 1978, when recruiter Del Harris visited his Hickory, N.C., high school. "I...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Southco CEO is named national marketing association chairman
Sherwin Herring was 19 in 1971 when he started working for a $1.65 an hour in the warehouse at what was then Southern Wholesale. Now, 37 years later as CEO of the renamed Southco Distributing Co., Herring has just...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Upgrades planned for city's water facilities
Goldsboro's utility facilities are OK for now, but a draft of the utilities master plan study -- under way since 2008 -- states that the city's facilities will need some upgrades in the near future. And in some cases, major...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Paving scam hits elderly residents
A group of men selling shoddy asphalt is targeting elderly victims by offering to pave driveways at a low price, then pressuring victims to pay more, authorities say. People have called the Wayne County Sheriff's Office numerous times with...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro Ballet to perform March 14 and 15
The Goldsboro Ballet will perform "Our Town" and "Carnival of Animals" at the Paramount Theatre on March 14 at 7 p.m. and on March 15 at 3 p.m. There is also a performance on March 13 at 9:00 a.m. and...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Habitat needs help with lunches
Habitat for Humanity is looking for organizations or individuals willing to feed college students who will be coming to help build a house in Wayne County during the weeks of March 2, March 9 and March 16. The students from...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Chamber to sponsor legislative briefing breakfast March 20
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a legislative briefing on Friday, March 20, from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Goldsboro Country Club. State Sens. Don Davis and David Rouzer and state Reps. Larry Bell, Van Braxton...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
November sales tax receipts lower
The county's sales tax receipts continued to decline in November, but not quite as sharply as they did in October. The two months combined fell by $1,099,590 compared to the same two months in 2007. Sales tax funds for...Published: Mar 2, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Students, counselors honored for work
Molly Jackson comes to school every day with a smile, ready and eager to start the day with her classmates. The image is in stark contrast to what Molly's parents were told when she became the 217th person in the...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Bringing home hope
The 12-year-old Eastern Wayne Middle School student hospitalized after being hit by a car in late January is coming home sooner than expected. But Taylor Gambrel is still in a coma and has nowhere to go for further treatment, his...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Former teacher turns himself in
MOUNT OLIVE -- A former Mount Olive Middle School teacher will make his first district court appearance Monday afternoon at 1:30 in Courtroom No. 3 on a charge stemming from alleged misconduct with a student. Jerry Dortch, 43, of...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
MO board to consider zoning flexibility
MOUNT OLIVE -- Zoning in the downtown commercial district grants the town inspector some leeway in situations where odd-shaped lots make it difficult for a business to met setback requirements. Monday night town commissioners will be asked to expand...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin commissioners to discuss unauthorized soil borings at site
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners will likely discuss soil borings at Duplin Commons the county manager says were done without county permission Monday at their regular meeting. "We have underground utilities and don't know exactly where...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
County, school officials meet
The Wayne County commissioners and the Wayne County Board of Education will meet Tuesday in a joint session to discuss the future of a $23 million school facilities plan that has been the center of recent debate between both...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
In a jam: Funding for series lacking
The global economic crisis came home to Goldsboro Friday as the deadline for Center Street Jam sponsorships came and went without enough money pledged to run the full summer lineup. Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. executive director Julie Thompson said it...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Who's the toughest cowgirl in Wayne?
PIKEVILLE -- Who's the toughest cowgirl in Wayne County? Judges are going to decide on March 28 at the first women's rodeo fundraiser at the Stepping Stone therapeutic horse riding stables on Capps Bridge Road. Programs Director Jana Foote is...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Charges filed in death of John St. man
Police say a 45-year-old man beat a North John Street man, leading to the victim's death on Nov. 17 and involuntary manslaughter charge filed on Friday. The death of Gerald Anthony King was originally classified as a death investigation by...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne Red Cross kicks off annual heroes fundraiser
The race is on as the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross starts its seventh annual month-long Heroes campaign for local services. This year "heroes," anyone who pledges to raise at least $1,000 for the Red Cross, are...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Saulston: It is home, and there's no place like it
SAULSTON -- The face of Wayne County is changing. Perhaps that is nowhere more evident than in the county's traditionally small rural communities. Even with those changes, it is still home for the families that have lived for generations...Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
The house Bell wants to build
John Bell knows about the petition opposing the housing development he plans to build just off U.S. 70 behind the Second Fling Consignment Shop -- one signed by the hundreds of Rosewood residents who met to discuss the issue Feb....Published: Mar 1, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story