Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Drowning victim found at Busco
Authorities say it is possible that a Rocky Mount man who drowned Monday evening at Busco Beach became stuck after stepping into a hole filled with silt. The body of Michael Gardner, 44, was recovered shortly after 11 a.m....Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fire in truckload of fireworks sparked red, white and BOOM
A small fireworks explosion ignited in the bed of a pickup truck in Stevenson Honda's dealership parking lot off U.S. 70 Tuesday around lunchtime. Emergency medical technicians responding to the explosion said they believed the driver of the truck,...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Kitty Askins project gets $750,000 donation
The State Employees' Credit Union held up its end of the bargain Tuesday when officials handed over a $750,000 check to 3HC for the Kitty Askins Hospice Center expansion. The center, which is owned by 3HC, is in the...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Opening arguments begin in murder trial
A ballistics expert and an emergency responder testified Tuesday in Wayne County Superior Court in the trial of Brandon Lee Williams, who is accused of the 2008 murder of Silvia Benitez Morales. Mrs. Morales was found shot to death...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Drenched: Band of storms leaves mini-floods, marble sized hail
Strong wind gusts, marble-sized hail and torrential rain flooded streets and overturned a tractor-trailer in Goldsboro on Tuesday afternoon as a strong storm system passed through the county. Goldsboro received 2-3 inches of rain in about an hour, according...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County jobless rate dips for third straight month
For the third month in a row, Wayne County's unemployment rate has dropped. The county rate dropped from 8.6 percent unemployment in April to 8.4 percent unemployment in May. The rate began decreasing earlier this year when it first...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Trip gives students opportunity to see General Assembly in action
Cole Tisdale is a rising junior at Southern Wayne High School with aspirations to go to college and study business administration. But a fortuitous trip to the General Assembly last week gave him pause. "I wanted to learn about...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Stolen business sign Frances Lovetter of Valley of Hope Ministries Rehabilitation for Women on Dobbersville Road reported on Monday morning that the business' sign had been stolen, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office says. The white, 4-foot by 8-foot wooden sign...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Art camp
Summer art camper John Davis admires his finished piece of tie-dyed cloth that he made during a summer arts camp held at the Arts Council of Wayne County. During the day last week, campers worked on creating different pieces of...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Most towns closed for Fourth on July 5
Local, state and federal offices will observe Monday as the Independence Day holiday, which falls on Sunday this year. The city of Goldsboro will observe the holiday on Monday, July 5. The council meeting will be held Tuesday at...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Boys & Girls Club offers much for youth to do over summer
The Boys & Girls Club has packed the summer with activities for youth in the county, and at a very reasonable price, says Jill Oaks, outreach coordinator. "For only a $10 membership, we provide a safe, positive place to...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County Museum looking to add to Wall of Fame
The life stories of some of Wayne County's most influential men and women are on display at the Wayne County Museum, and the Wayne County Historical Association is looking to add two more local legends to the Wall of...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Booze It & Lose It campaign ongoing
The Governor's Highway Safety Program's 2010 "Booze It & Lose It: Operation Firecracker" campaign began Monday and will continue through Sunday. State and local law enforcement officers will be out in force over the Fourth of July holiday period...Published: Jun 30, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Teen dies in crash
FAISON -- A Mount Olive woman was killed Monday in a single vehicle accident outside of Faison. Ashley Cartwright, 19, was driving on N.C. 403 at approximately 1 p.m. Monday when the accident happened, investigators said. The car Miss Cartwright...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Big Band sound brings back memories of the 1940s
Barbara Hood Hatch, 79, doesn't have to rely on her imagination to picture how the second floor of the Wayne County Museum looked when it was the USO during the 1940s -- she has her memories. A teenager at...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Murder trial jury chosen
A jury was selected late Monday in the murder trial of Brandon Lee Williams, who is accused of the murder of Silvia Benitez Morales. Attorney Geoff Hulse is representing Williams, who was arrested a few months after Mrs. Morales' death...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Breaking and entering A Mount Olive man was charged with breaking into his former workplace at least five times over the course of a month after being terminated from a Goldsboro-based aerospace and defense company, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Carver Alumni to reunite this week
MOUNT OLIVE -- It has been 40 years since Linda Dove Bizzell and her classmates graduated from Carver High School in Mount Olive, the last group of students to earn their diplomas from the segregation-era school. And this week, the...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Johnston County asking for water conservation
SMITHFIELD -- Due to unprecedented high water demand and temporary limitations in the Johnston County water distribution system, the Johnston county manager on Monday issued a water shortage advisory. While the advisory is in effect, customers are requested to employ...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Body of man who drowned found at Busco Beach
The body of a Rocky Mount man who apparently drowned early Monday evening at Busco Beach was recovered shortly after 11 a.m. this morning. Sheriff Carey Winders said that Michael Gardner, 44, was at the lake with his wife and...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Former Wayne hospital employee files suit, claiming HIPPA violation
A former employee of Wayne and Johnston Memorial hospitals is suing both, alleging that private information about her health, protected by federal law, was spread by employees of both institutions. Ann Marie Green Conerly eventually quit her job over...Published: Jun 29, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, June 28, 2010
Aid down for some county graduates
The economy did not markedly hinder scholarships for the latest high school graduating class in Wayne County -- although one school saw its aid for students going on to college decrease by more than 50 percent from 2009. The Class...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Just go farm worms ...
The Job: Worm farming The Company: The WOW! Factory The Location: Goldsboro When I was 5 I had a pet worm named Bubba. I used to play with him in the yard or put him in my pocket -- perfectly...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County adds funds to purchase more fans for senior citizens
Wayne County last week amended the county budget to provide $1,300 to help buy fans for area senior citizens after funds from other agencies to purchase fans had been expended. Eryn McAuliffe, director of the Wayne County Services on...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Man killed while he walked on highway
PIKEVILLE -- A man arguing with his family exited their vehicle on Interstate 795 early Sunday morning, where he was killed when struck by a car, authorities said. Victor Ceja-Fuentes, 19, of Antler Creek Road, died at the scene...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Tower fixed; security in place
MOUNT OLIVE -- The county has repaired its new communications tower that was damaged earlier this month when someone stole copper wire and grounding bars from the structure. "We have taken some security measures that are now in place...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Another week of heat
During a break, construction worker Celso Camey cools himself off with a chug of cold water as Oscar Gonzalez looks on at construction work being done at the new portion of Kitty Askins Hospice Center on Wayne Memorial Drive. The...Published: Jun 28, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, June 27, 2010
From a recovering addict's point of view
EDITOR'S NOTE: "Tammy" is a recovering meth addict. Her name has been withheld to protect her privacy as she continues to battle her addiction in treatment. After 72 hours with no sleep, her house was spotlessly clean, the fact that...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Principal changes set for 2010-11
Several administrative changes in the district have been announced, including shifts for principals at six schools and the naming of seven new assistant principals. Changes will be effective July 1 for principals and Aug. 18 for assistant principals. All assignments...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
WAGES to host career fair
Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency, Inc., WAGES, is having a Career Fair at the Herman Park Center on Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. All job seekers are welcome to come and meet prospective employers for networking and...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Meth: An old threat takes on new power
In 2008, Wayne County reported three methamphetamine lab raids. A year later, that number jumped to 24, earning this county the distinction of being No. 2 in the state for meth raids -- and the county with the largest increase...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Dam repairs forced fish kill
The hundreds of dead fish at Rudy Hill Dam are the result of orders from the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources' Division of Land Resources to drain the pond and repair the dam. "We had to drain...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Hamming it up
Roger Smith's small enclosed trailer and Albert Lioen's tent were separated by less than 100 feet, but the methods they were using to communicate with the world were separated by almost 160 years. Smith was transmitting by Morse Code,...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Wayne Education Network introduces website
A website was introduced last week that will provide access to the wide array of educational programs available in the community -- targeting not only local residents and families, but those anticipating a move to Wayne County. It is just...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Pikeville approves budget
PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville Board of Commissioners approved its 2010-11 budget Tuesday night, a spending plan that does not increase property taxes nor utility rates for residents. The $2.17 million budget is 18 percent less than the current budget. Town...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Pikeville celebrates an early Fourth of July in the park
PIKEVILLE -- The two massive fans in the cooking area behind the Blended Fellowship Church booth were providing little relief from the hot and muggy Saturday morning air, forcing church member Jack Sasser to find an inventive way to...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Troopers grad week patrols a success
A campaign to reduce traffic accidents involving teenage drivers during graduation week proved a success, say troopers with the state Highway Patrol. On orders from Gov. Beverly Perdue, the patrol vowed to crack down on speeding, drunken driving and...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Suspect arrested in set of break-ins
Woodrow Mitnaul III, 28, of Rosewood Road, has been arrested in connection with three breaking and entering incidents earlier this spring in the Rosewood area. Mitnaul was arrested following an investigation by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Investig-ation is...Published: Jun 27, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, June 25, 2010
Poultry company: Site pick is coming
Sanderson Farms is searching for up to 600 acres north of Goldsboro on which to build a $94 million chicken deboning facility that would employ up to 1,100 people. Construction could begin next March if the land can be...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Relay revisited: $567,197
More than 1,800 Wayne County Relay for Life participants joined the fight against cancer this year and raised $567,197 for the American Cancer Society. The county Relay committee announced the grand total and the top fundraising teams Thursday at the...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Groovin' on a sunny afternoon
Jessica Kornegay dances with her son Rusty, 4, while the Band of Oz plays at the Center Street Jam in Goldsboro Thursday. The free music festival sponsored by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. will continue July 8 with the band...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont OKs spending plan
FREMONT -- The Fremont Board of Aldermen approved its 2010-11 budget Tuesday by a 4-3 margin. Board members Leon Mooring, W.T. Smith and Al Lewis voted to approve the budget and Leroy Ruffin, Annie Lewis and Harold Cuddington voted...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fast-food manager found dead in his car
LaGRANGE -- The manager of the Bojangles restaurant on U.S. 70 in LaGrange was found shot to death early today by deputies with the Lenoir County Sheriff's Department. Lenoir County Sheriff Billy Smith said this morning that the initial...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County now looking for new 911 director
Wayne County officials are looking for a new 911 emergency communications director. Randy Weiss, a retired Air Force master sergeant who held the job for less than six months, resigned earlier this month. He replaced Delbert Edwards, who resigned...Published: Jun 25, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Beetle busters
There is a new type of battle going on at the softball fields at Wayne Community College. Call it wasps vs. beetles -- literally. The softball field at Wayne Community College is temporarily closed while researchers identify a strain of...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sinkhole won't be fixed until September
Repairs to a huge pothole on Spence Avenue near its intersection with Elm Street won't begin until late July or early August, city officials say, and likely won't be finished until September. Although more than three months have passed...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Will plant locate down the highway?
Wayne County officials say rumors are unfounded that Mississippi-based Sanderson Farms has reached a final decision on building a $94 million chicken deboning facility in the county -- a plant that could employ up to 1,100 people. "That is...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Lawyer pleads guilty to fraud
RALEIGH -- The United States Attorney's Office announced this week that William Orander III, 40, of Goldsboro pleaded guilty in federal court to committing mail, wire and bank fraud. Orander, who already had his law license revoked by the...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Quick chicken plant facts
What: A Wayne County Sanderson plant with a feed mill, hatchery and processing plant and wastewater treatment facility. It could employ about 1,100 people, require about 150 contract growers, and be equipped to process and sell 8.9 million pounds of...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Local man wants governor to grant him pardon for crime
Thomas E. Parker doesn't have an immaculate criminal record. But there is one crime he didn't do, he maintains -- rob the now-defunct Merritt Supermarket on Royall Avenue in January 1999. A federal judge, Terrence W. Boyle, agreed in an...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Foreign students need homes
Host families are still being sought for foreign students who will be arriving soon for a visit to eastern North Carolina. Homes are still needed for two Spanish students, arriving on June 30, and four French students, arriving July 10....Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Resident foils break-in
A homeowner foiled a break-in at home Monday, with the intruder winding up arrested by Goldsboro police. A resident of East Pine Street reportedly interrupted an attempted breaking and entering at his property Monday at about 10:30 a.m. and called...Published: Jun 24, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Baddour elected president of N.C. Advocates for Justice
Philip A. Baddour Jr., a partner at Baddour, Parker & Hine, PC, has been elected president of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, a statewide association of attorneys that strives to protect the rights of all North Carolinians in...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC prepares to open fall registration period
New and returning students at Wayne Community College can sign up for fall courses on the main campus on the following dates -- July 14, 15, 20 and Aug. 18, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; July 19, 1-7 p.m.; and Aug....Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
8-year-old dies after being hit by vehicle
BEAULAVILLE -- A child was struck by a car and killed Saturday on Highway 41 in Beaulaville, according to the state Highway Patrol reports. Malachi Josiah Davis, 8, ran into the road in front of his home at 1459...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Scouts honor benefactor
Longtime Scout supporter Dick Auger has a new shelter named in his honor at Camp Tuscarora. In recognition of Auger's many years of service to the program, a group of the Friends of Scouting decided to build a shelter...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Dance will pay tribute to local USO
The music and dances of a classic era return to the Wayne County Museum at the USO Tribute Dance this Saturday at 7 p.m. The museum on William Street, once used as a USO building, will be swinging to...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Outlaw riders a threat to region
No one should not be misled by romanticized images of outlaw motorcycle gang members, an authority on the groups told members of the law enforcement community Tuesday. They are dangerous and violent criminals who bring nothing positive to a...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
It will be Marshall vs. Burr
Elaine Marshall carried Wayne County en route to her victory over Cal Cunningham for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate on Tuesday. The runoff election was held because Ms. Marshall, the North Carolina secretary of state, did not win...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Internet parlors -- endangered species?
In the wake of the state Senate approving a ban on Internet parlors, local officials and residents are split on what they would like to see happen when the House votes on the issue. The legislation, which was approved...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County lawman added to national memorial
The last time a Wayne County officer died in the line of duty was 2002, but a more historical figure was the last person to be added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial this year in Washington, D.C. Sheriff...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Christy Renee Lopez, 32, Wharton Lane, told Goldsboro police she was robbed at gunpoint in the parking lot of a convenience store on N.C. 111 South. Taken were $280 in cash, $200 worth of jewelry and a...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Summertime in the city
Damien Durham lowers his head to let water from the sprinkler at Goldsboro's Cornerstone Commons drip down his face as other children play during Sprinkler Day last Thursday. Every Thursday during the summer from 3 to 4 p.m. at Cornerstone...Published: Jun 23, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Pikeville will kick off 4th of July celebrations
The Pikeville Lions Club and residents are gearing up for the town's Fourth of July celebration Saturday. The 13th annual gathering, which is hosted by the Pikeville Lions Club, starts at 10 a.m. Saturday and caps off with a fireworks...Published: Jun 22, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive OKs budget, looks at 'parlors'
MOUNT OLIVE -- The Mount Olive Town Board of Commissioners approved a $5.586 million budget for 2010-2011 Monday night following a brief public hearing. The budget retains the current tax rate of 59 cents per $100 worth of property,...Published: Jun 22, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
No new taxes for Duplin, but no raises for workers either
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners approved the county's 2010-11 budget Monday -- without a proposed 2 percent raise for full and part-time county employees. The budget initially contained the across-the-board increase, but a motion made by Commissioner...Published: Jun 22, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Breaking and entering arrest As a result of an investigation by Wayne County Sheriff's Office, David Earl Poe, 37, of Rougemont and Michael Edward Laswell, 44, of Bahama were charged with attempted breaking and entering and possession of burglary tools....Published: Jun 22, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Habitat cuts ribbons on 3 homes for local families
Anita Hall raised her hands to the sky in praise, the keys to her family's new house dangling from her fingers. "I used to think I didn't deserve anything good," the mother of two daughters said to the crowd of...Published: Jun 22, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, June 21, 2010
Time to milk the goats ...
The Job: Goat cheese farmer The Company: Holly Grove Farms, Inc. The Location: Mount Olive It's been brought to my attention that my aim is off, courtesy of one very uncomfortable goat. I started my shift at Holly Grove Farms...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Voters pick Democrat candidate tomorrow
Polls will open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday for the second Democratic Senate primary between Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. The contest between Ms. Marshall and Cunningham is the only one on the ballot and...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Graduation coach deemed 'success'
All of the 28 at-risk Goldsboro High School seniors who worked with the school's new graduation coach received their diplomas during graduation ceremonies at the school. Just how those figures will affect the school's graduation rate remains to be...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Let the sun shine
Vickey Sanderson arranges bouquets of flowers for sale at the Mini Mobile Farmers Market on Herman Street. The market is open every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. It is sponsored by the city of Goldsboro and the Wayne...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman posts bail with stolen credit card
Goldsboro authorities are looking for a Fremont couple who allegedly conspired to use stolen credit cards to buy a man's way out of the county jail, a sergeant reported. Detective Sgt. Thomas Flores said Christie Lynn Ruffin, 28, wife of...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Mt. Olive Pickle president honored for business practices, service
MOUNT OLIVE -- Bill Bryan, the president of Mt. Olive Pickle Co., was honored last week with a national award that recognizes people and organizations that display ethical leadership in their communities. Bryan received the Being a Difference Award...Published: Jun 21, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Plowing the old-fashioned way
Spot Rouse, of Seven Springs, uses a team of Percheron working horses to break up the ground during the Work Horse and Mule Plow Day held on his farm just west of Seven Springs on N.C. 55. The event is...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Education council examines test scores
More scores are in -- and Wayne County students are improving their math and reading performance, said the chief of a Wayne County Chamber of Commerce committee taking a look at schools and scores. But that does not mean...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
911th records successful first year; command change
Two years after standing up, the 911th Air Refueling Squadron has proven its mission a success, at least in the mind of outgoing commander Lt. Col. Bill Uptmor. "Absolutely it has been a phenomenal success," Uptmor said. The attachment...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Paul named president of MOC alumni association
MOUNT OLIVE -- Gregg Paul of Midlothian, Va., formerly from Belhaven, is president of the Mount Olive College Alumni Association where he served for a number of years on the Alumni Board. "Gregg brings energy, enthusiasm, fresh ideas, valued...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
County gets set for Laurean trial
People with business at the Wayne County Courthouse will need to allow for even more time than normal for traffic, parking and security beginning in August when the first-degree murder trial of former Marine Cesar Laurean gets under way....Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Teacher invited to take part in special study on Lincoln
Ann Price, a second-grade teacher at Tommy's Road Elementary School, will be participating in the Horace Mann-Abraham Lincoln Fellowship Program that gives 50 teachers from across the country the opportunity to learn more about the 16th president and incorporate the...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Surrounded by family, saying 'I do'
Most people would never think to have their weddings where they work -- but most people don't love their work as much as Nancy Gendreau does. Nancy married her boyfriend of five months, Johnny Davis, Thursday at the Wayne...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Helping refill the bank
George Worrell jokes with American Red Cross Blood Drive site supervisor Liz Miller as he gives blood in the mobile blood drive van in front of Lowe's in Goldsboro. The local blood supply is low right now because many people...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
New Medigap updates going into effect in June
Medigap, also known as Medicare supplement, coverage is undergoing some changes. Medigap policies are private insurance policies sold by insurance companies through licensed agents. Beginning January 1992, Medigap policies became standardized, and there are no differences in the plans...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Man accused of rape pleads to lesser charge
A Mount Olive man accused of raping a 20-year-old at her Spence Avenue Apartment complex has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. Shane Martin Berens, 24, of O'Berry Road, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery, reduced from a charge...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Union Station update, hearings on agenda
The Goldsboro City Council members will hear an update on the Union Station project during a work session prior to their meeting Monday night. The council will meet at 7 p.m. in its chambers at City Hall on Center...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Schools choose their individual teachers of the year
Thirty-one teachers have been selected to represent their respective schools as Teachers of the Year for 2010-2011, officials announced. Educators in Wayne County Public Schools will vie for the districtwide honor, which will be announced at the start of...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
School board could see several new faces this fall
By year's end, the Board of Education could have a whole new look. With three members' names on the November ballot and two others departing, the bulk of the board could be new faces. Board member Dave Thomas announced...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Teens talk about abstinence in Health Department essay contest
The Health Department's annual abstinence essay contest may have drawn fewer submissions this year, but the message is still getting out there, said Carolyn King, health education supervisor. "I do get the opportunity to meet students who talk to...Published: Jun 20, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, June 18, 2010
Smithfield plans July Fourth celebration
SMITHFIELD -- The Downtown Smithfield Development Corp. and the Smithfield Parks and Recreation Dept. will sponsor the city's annual "Friends of the 4th" fireworks celebration at the Historical Smithfield Town Commons on Front Street on Monday, July 5. "With the...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Kids choir auditions Saturday at Wayne County Public Library
Children ages 6-17 who wish to participate in a community choir sponsored by the Goldsboro chapter of Continental Societies are invited to audition Saturday, June 19, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Wayne County Public Library on Ash...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Free HIV, syphilis tests today at Wayne County Health Department
A public health awareness campaign to encourage people to get tested for HIV and sexually transmitted diseaseswill be offering free HIV and syphilis tests today from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Wayne County Health Department. The program, called "Get...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Bomb squad detonates 'suspicious materials'
The State Bureau of Investigation's bomb squad performed controlled detonations of at least four explosives after a search of a man's home on East Holly Street on Thursday afternoon. The explosives involved appeared to be "pipe bombs," and were...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Emergency plan heads to state, FEMA
A brief Tuesday morning public hearing on the county's revised Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan failed to attract any attention other than a few questions and comments by county commissioners. Commissioners approved submitting the plan to the state and to...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Cherry LPN hurt during encounter with patient
A nurse at Cherry Hospital had to be hospitalized at Wayne Memorial Hospital for injuries received Wednesday, state officials said this morning. According to the public affairs office of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, a patient...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Group setting rules for picking board member
Recommendations for a replacement for retiring District 2 school board member Shirley Sims will be considered by the Wayne County Board of Commissioners when they meet in special session July 23. The commissioners' meeting will begin at 9 a.m....Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Small businesses honored for their work in county
Small businesses were honored Thursday night at the Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours event at the Country Inn and Suites. The Wayne County Small Business of the Year Awards are sponsored by the Small Business Center at Wayne Community...Published: Jun 18, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Meals on Wheels adds route in Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE -- A new Meals on Wheels route has been added in Mount Olive, through $25,000 in United Way funding. This will be the third route for that area, but fulfills a long-time need for services in that...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Hollerin' Contest to be Saturday
SPIVEY'S CORNER -- The 42nd Annual National Hollerin' Contest will be held on June 19 at the Spivey's Corner Volunteer Fire Department at 8200 Newton Grove Highway in Dunn. Events start at 11 a.m. and admission is $5. Events...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Health board OKs septic fee increase
The Board of Health on Wednesday approved a $50 increase in the cost for a septic system permit -- from $200 to $250. At the May meeting, the board had voted down a proposal to raise the fee to...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County will eye cluster builds
Cluster subdivisions that have been permitted in Wayne County for only four years are going to get another look even though there has been only one such development proposed during that time. A cluster subdivision allows developers to build...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Auto parts store plans to come to Goldsboro
Another auto parts store is making plans to come to Goldsboro. O'Reilly Auto Parts will take the place of the former Carter Christian Academy located at 2400 E. Ash St. The city approved the demolition permit for the site on...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Courthouse video system will cut prisoner movement
An inmate recently attempted to overpower a bailiff who was escorting him from the Wayne County Jail to the courthouse. The bailiff was able to subdue the inmate, and no one was injured. County officials hope incidents like that...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Lion talk
Skylar Ratliff shows Naomi Dunn her best fierce lion look while Dunn uses an umbrella as her pretend turtle shell during Stage Struck Storytellers hour. The weeklong program, which is in its third year, lets children use their imaginations and...Published: Jun 17, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Southern Wayne High graduates turn tassels at commencement
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mary Hussey wasn't about to let a little thing like recovering from a broken ankle keep her from watching her grandson and Southern Wayne High School senior, Myron Roberts, graduate Tuesday night. She slowly made her...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect charged in murder
Goldsboro police have arrested a suspect in a New Year's Day murder outside an East Wilson Street home. Andre Devon Weeks, 26, of Evergreen Avenue, is being held without bond in the Wayne County Jail. Police Sgt. Chad Calloway...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
AF chiefs: Cuts will not keep America prepared
The former Air Force chief of staff and the former secretary of the Air Force say decisions made in Washington, D.C., regarding equipment and personnel could have serious repercussions on the nation's ability to remain strong in the face of...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Work tougher to find for grads, students this year
Rebecca Sewell recently graduated from Wayne Community College's medical assisting program. She's sent applications to several places, but hasn't heard back yet about a full-time job. In the meantime, she has found a place to sharpen her skills. "I have...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Commissioners approve county budget
Wayne County Commissioners unanimously approved a $156 million budget for 2010-11 on Tuesday. The budget keeps the tax rate at 76.4 cents per $100 worth of property. Property and unrestricted sales taxes will account for $63.421 million of the...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fans available to seniors
Wayne County Services on Aging has received funding from Progress Energy and the Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging to purchase fans for Wayne County Senior Citizens. Fans will be distributed to persons aged 60 or older or...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools to operate on flex schedule
Wayne County Public Schools returns this week to its annual summer flex schedule. Employees will operate under a 10-hour-day, four-day workweek schedule, with offices being closed on Fridays. Administrative offices along with the child nutrition and exceptional children's departments...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County accepting city property at library and airport sites
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday accepted property from the city of Goldsboro that will clear the way for the county to be sole owner and operator of the county airport and library. Commissioners also agreed to...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont board delays vote on 2010-11 budget
The Fremont Board of Aldermen decided to wait until Tuesday to vote on the 2010-11 budget, which goes into effect July 1. A few town residents spoke at Tuesday's meeting about the $3.48 million budget, which calls for a...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Crowds come for annual ice cream social and pet parade
It was a classic summer scene Tuesday evening as children, dogs and adults all gathered at the end of Center Street, where a large sprinkler hooked up to a fire hydrant sprayed water down on everyone, much to the...Published: Jun 16, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
A final tribute
Boy Scout Trey Owens holds the U.S. flag as he and his fellow Troop 8 Scouts bow their heads in prayer during the flag retirement ceremony at New Hope United Methodist Church on Monday evening. Monday was national Flag Day...Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Helping students find money for college
Dr. Jerrelle Jones had 30 years' experience as a licensed clinical social worker and provided supervision to community group home professionals. She is also a licensed evangelist. But these days her mission field is in helping students obtain financial aid...Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
AF chiefs: Pate kept SJAFB in Wayne
They came to Goldsboro for an evening of fellowship, the nation's 21st Secretary of the Air Force and 18th Air Force Chief of Staff -- to share a few laughs and drinks with a man they know both as a...Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County leaders concerned about state's idea to change lottery funds use policy
A provision in both the state House and Senate budget proposals would allow millions of dollars in lottery money to be diverted from school districts' capital funds to the state Department of Public Instruction to maintain teaching positions and...Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Cherry tech fired over restraint technique
A health care technician at Cherry Hospital was fired earlier this month for placing a pillow over the face of a patient strapped in restraints. The technician, Kevin Dunn, had been employed at Cherry for less than two years....Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
District 2 search begins Thursday
The committee that will recommend a replacement for District 2 school board member Shirley Sims will hold an organizational meeting Thursday at 10 a.m. in Room 111 at the Jeffreys building, 134 N. John St. The meeting is open...Published: Jun 15, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, June 14, 2010
Program helps make homes weatherproof, saves on utility bills
Lynn Howard didn't realize it, but she was practically throwing money out the window. At one point, her monthly utility bills were as high as $400, consuming almost 40 percent of her fixed income. Since suffering a head injury...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Plumbing detail
The Job: Plumber The Company: Keen Plumbing The Location: Wayne County Most of the time I can tell how a job is going to go based on the questions they ask me when I arrive. I've been asked if I...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Goodbye, Mrs. Faison
When Tommy's Road Elementary School first opened in the fall of 2000, its initial role was to alleviate overcrowding at the northern and eastern schools. June 30 will mark more than the milestone first decade, as its principal from the...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County will talk budget, zoning
Residents with questions or comments about the county's $156 million 2010-11 budget proposal will have the chance to speak during a 9:15 a.m. public hearing Tuesday before county commissioners. Commissioners will be briefed on the agenda at 8 a.m....Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Thefts *Lafayett Hines of Snow Hill reported to Goldsboro police that several items were taken from his motel room on U.S. 70, including a portable CD player, medications and $153 in cash. *Moses Mack Perry reported to Goldsboro police...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sheriff: Calypso won't lose protection
CALYPSO -- A tight budget year sent Duplin County financial staff scrambling to find places to cut, and the Sheriff's Office substation in Calypso was one item unfunded in the proposed 2010-11 budget. The town of Calypso and the Duplin...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Convenience site expanded
The Wayne County Solid Waste Department Hood Swamp convenience site on West Hill Drive (off of Highway 13) has been expanded to take the usual refuse as well as to provide additional containers for household scrap metal items, furniture...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
N.C. Community Federal Credit Union raising funds for Hope for Warriors program
The North Carolina Community Federal Credit Union, in collaboration with other credit unions in North and South Carolina, is working to raise funds to benefit Hope for Warriors, a grassroots non-profit organization that provides support to military members recovering...Published: Jun 14, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Scout leads Little River cleanup
The Little River is running cleaner today after 15-year-old Boy Scout Casey Wood spearheaded a project last month to clean up a six-mile stretch from Capps Bridge Road to the bridge on N.C. 581. Wood said he came up...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Gators graduate with cheers, tears
MOUNT OLIVE -- Melanique DeVeaux's senior project was a film starring her friend, Dontay Boseman, a step toward her dream of someday becoming a filmmaker. Miss DeVeaux was one of 133 graduates in the Saturday commencement ceremony for Spring Creek...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Tiny fighter
Weldon Williford takes his daughter's hands. "Patty cake, patty cake, baker's man," he says, clapping along with the 2-year-old. "Bake me a cake as fast as you can." The little girl's blue eyes light up and she gives her...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
New employment office coming to hotel corner
The Wayne County branch of the Employment Security Commission is planning on growing and moving in the months ahead -- and will do so at a site where a storm-decimated hotel once stood. Branch manager Bill Pate said construction...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Very few ballots cast for Senate runoff contest
As of Friday afternoon, 107 one-stop ballots had been cast in advance of the June 22 second Democratic primary between U.S. Senate hopefuls Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. One-stop voting, which got under way June 3, will continue at...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Eagles fly from the nest into the adult world
It was a sea of purple that flooded Rosewood High School football field Friday night as more than 120 students crossed over from high school seniors to graduates. Principal Dean Sauls briefly spoke to the Class of 2010 before its...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Warriors welcome next step in life
Saturday marked the day students at Eastern Wayne High School had awaited for 345,600 minutes, valedictorian Warner Underwood said. "Those minutes were quickly filled with the worry of where to sit in the cafeteria on the first day, the fun...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Police look for suspect in shooting
Police now have a suspect in a shooting that a police spokesman describes as a "senseless argument" that escalated into homicide. Andre Devon Weeks, 26, of Ever-green Avenue has an alleged violent past -- he was indicted just days...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Fire taxes stay steady for most this year
Residents in the Elroy Fire District will see a 1.5-cent increase in their fire tax bill should the county budget be approved as submitted. It is the only one of the 30 fire districts serving Wayne County that will...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Cougars proud of Class of 2010s success, future prospects
Goldsboro High School's 123 graduates walked onto the football field Friday night as seniors and walked off it ready to conquer their next challenges as adults. Principal of curriculum Patricia Burden welcomed parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Three face charges for illegal bail bond work
A growing problem with unlicensed bail bondsmen operating illegally in North Carolina hit home this week, with three people arrested for the offense on Thursday. Jamie Rebecca Taylor, 34, of Linen Lane, is a licensed bail bondsman. Her husband,...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Type O negative blood supply critically low
Blood type 0 negative has dropped to critically low levels. Red Cross officials said 0 negative is always in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency situations. "While all blood...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Falcons class of 2010 soars away
The students and staff at Charles B. Aycock High School are a family, principal Earl Moore told the Class of 2010 -- a class that is "the perfect 10," he said. And although the Falcon family was missing a member...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Perdue reassures business owners
KENANSVILLE -- Gov. Beverly Perdue visited James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville Friday to meet with and to discuss the needs of small business owners in the area. She also discussed legislation brewing in the state House aimed at...Published: Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, June 11, 2010
Two members added to committee
Two more people have been named to the committee that will recommend a replacement for District 2 school board member Shirley Sims in an apparent effort to blunt criticisms the committee inadequately represents district residents. Until Thursday, the only...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Jamming on Center Street
People packed the Center Street Jam Thursday, waiting in line to get a cold drink to cool off from the heat in downtown Goldsboro. The Craig Woolard Band highlighted the event, which was sponsored by the Goldsboro News-Argus and the...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC gets $20,000 for library materials
Wayne Community College has been awarded nearly $20,000 in federal funds to enhance its library collection, officials announced Thursday. Secretary Linda Carlisle of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources visited the campus to make the announcement, which reflects $4.9 million...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Syphilis testing clinics planned in June
As syphilis cases continue to climb in Wayne County, the Health Department is broadening its efforts -- starting with a mass testing mid-month and canvassing neighborhoods to raise awareness of the epidemic situation. "Unfortunately, we've seen over 60 cases (of...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Eureka takes first step in paying sewer debt
The town of Eureka has taken a step toward paying off its sewer debt to the town of Fremont. Fremont handles the sewage treatment for Eureka and sends the town a bill each month. But Eureka doesn't always pay the...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Shootings *A South Andrews Street man was shot in the leg in a parking lot in the 900 block of South Slocumb Street, Goldsboro police said. Lesean Dingle, 30, suffered internal injuries from the wound, police said, and was transported...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County children, and teachers, end year
Linda Pate, a third-grade teacher at Northeast Elementary School, hugs her student Alana Rising, as fellow student Vanessa Lazaro looks on as students are dismissed for the last day of school. After 30 years working as a teacher including 12...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Man dies after car slips off jack
A Goldsboro man was crushed to death while working underneath his car at his home on Riverbend Road earlier this week. The accident that killed Michael Schuch happened Tuesday, a member of his family said. Schuch, 34, had gone...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Ready, set, graduate
Senior Class adviser Sederis Whitfield directs the 291 Charles B. Aycock High School seniors to their seats during graduation practice Thursday. Aycock seniors are graduating Saturday at 10 a.m. Goldsboro and Rosewood high schools will honor their graduates tonight. Other...Published: Jun 11, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Helicopter flight finds marijuana plant crop
FREMONT -- A helicopter patrol by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office turned up a crop of 25 marijuana plants near Fremont on land off Davis Mill Road Wednesday afternoon. Lt. Chris Worth of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Cornhuskers
Katlyn Thornton and her sister Karen prepare fresh sweet corn for canning and freezing Wednesday afternoon on their farm on Crowfoot Road in the Grantham community. The harvest season for many home-grown vegetables has begun. For people without gardens, vegetable...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville residents facing higher bills
Starting July 1 Pikeville residents will see a slightly higher electric bill. In response to a rate increase from ElectriCities, the Pikeville Board of Commissioners voted in January to increase the electric rate 7 percent beginning in July. Currently...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning board OKs salvage expansion
The Wayne County Planning Board on Tuesday approved a site plan for expansion of Young's Auto Salvage on U.S. 117 Alt. South across from the Dudley Post Office. County commissioners last month rezoned the property from residential-agriculture to heavy...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Students can still get lunch over summer
Students who participate in the county schools' free and reduced lunch programs will not go hungry during summer vacation. The state's Summer Food Service Program will operate at six locations in Wayne County during the break, providing nutritious snacks and...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Greenwood parents upset over school bus discipline
Greenwood Middle School parents are still searching for answers today after they said about 15 students were held on a hot bus -- unknown to them and apparently to other school officials -- Wednesday afternoon by the driver. Tami...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Site would link military families to support options
RALEIGH -- In a matter of a few clicks, those left behind when a loved one heads to war would have support -- at least, that is the goal of the "Carolina Helping Heroes" program recently launched by the state's...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Thieves swipe copper from tower
MOUNT OLIVE -- The county's emergency communications radio system suffered a setback recently when vandals removed copper grounding wire from the newly completed tower in Mount Olive. An unknown suspect or suspects scaled a six-foot fence topped with barbed wire...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Red Cross blood drive schedule for June
Blood donations historically decline during the summer months due to donors taking vacation and summer activities. But the demand for blood often increases due to more people traveling on the roads and people opting for elective surgeries during the summer...Published: Jun 10, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Hospital gets OK to work on ER
Wayne Memorial Hospital has received the go-ahead from the state to expand its emergency department. Hospital president William Paugh said Tuesday that the state Division of Health Service Regulation confirmed the hospital's certificate of need, giving it the green...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Board rejects development in restricted zone
The developer of a proposed 70-lot cluster subdivision in a restricted zone north of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base has pulled the project from consideration, but county officials remain fearful that similar projects could send the wrong signals to...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Bank robbery suspect leads chief on chase
FREMONT -- A suspect accused of robbing The Heritage Bank in Fremont this morning not long after it opened was captured and taken into custody within minutes by the Fremont police and Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies. Fremont police...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
WCPS seniors prepare to turn their tassels this weekend
Graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2010 in Wayne County Public Schools will begin this weekend, with 1,189 seniors receiving diplomas from the six traditional high schools. Another 16 students have already graduated last month, from the district's seventh school,...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Shot in home A North Carolina Street woman reported seeing a man with a handgun in her front yard on Monday afternoon, then went into the house to call police -- prompting the stranger to shoot her in the buttocks...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Principal: Alternative school shift worked well
Alternative schools in Wayne County have been around since 1993, when Belfast Academy was opened, followed in 1997 by Southern Academy in Mount Olive. Both catered to students in grades 6 through 12 and were designed to be small learning...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin County to partner with Wallace
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County will be a "silent partner" in a contract between the Wallace Committee of 100 and Wilmington Industrial Development Inc. The Wallace 100 Committee, dedicated to supporting development in the county, is contracting with the Wilmington-region...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Learning to cook
Professional caterer and cooking instructor Patricia Artis welcomes people to "The Art of Cooking" course offered by Wayne Community College Continuing Education community services program. The course will focus on American cuisine and will teach people how to prepare a...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin Correctional Facility evacuated because of gas leak
A gas leak at the Duplin Correctional Facility outside of Kenansville caused a temporary evacuation Monday. An administration building located outside of the jail's fence was evacuated for about two hours while maintenance workers shut off the gas and...Published: Jun 9, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect arrested in Fremont bank robbery
FREMONT -- A suspect accused of robbing The Heritage Bank in Fremont this morning not long after it opened was captured and taken into custody within minutes by the Fremont police and Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies. Fremont police...Published: Jun 9, 2010 11:39 AM Full Story
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Seven Springs Library will close its doors after 40 years
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Angie Johnson was surprised when she found out the Seven Springs library branch her family has been coming to for years will close at the end of this month. "I've always been coming in here," she said...Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin County's spending plan includes employee raises
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County property tax rate will remain at 69 cents per $100 valuation, and many services once on the chopping block are funded in the 2010-11 proposed budget, residents learned Monday night at a county public hearing....Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville officials give $1,000 back to local VFD
PIKEVILLE -- Members of the Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Volunteer Fire Department questioned the Pikeville Board of Commissioners on Tuesday as to why the town planned to cut its funding from $29,000 to $27,000. Chief Ken Jones said the department "went...Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools add vocational academies
Wayne County Public Schools will add three new vocational academies at high schools in the fall -- in drafting, machining and transportation. The Board of Education voted Monday night to enter into a memorandum of agreement with Wayne Community...Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Council approves budget with two fee hikes
After months of debate, the Goldsboro City Council, at last, adopted the latest version of City Manager Joe Huffman's recommended 2010-11 budget Monday evening. But the plan looked far different from when the board first reviewed it. There will be...Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
In it together, always
As Patrick Doherty fields a question about how his wife, Dee Dee, motivates him, you can tell they are in it together, the 4th Fighter Wing commander and his first lady. And by the time he finishes, she is looking...Published: Jun 8, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, June 7, 2010
Dr. Patrick Sasser dies after being hit by baseball
Longtime Goldsboro physician Dr. Patrick Sasser, 80, died Saturday as a result of head injuries sustained after an accident at a baseball game at the Boys and Girls Club on Tuesday. His wife, Patricia Sasser, said they were at the...Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
WAGES sets career fair for June 30
Employers and employees are invited to attend the upcoming WAGES Career Fair on June 30. The fair, which is from noon to 3 p.m. at Herman Park Center, is geared toward anyone looking for a job, looking to hire or...Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Workin' It - Artists, ceramics and bubbles
The Job: Pottery teacher The Company: KeepSakes Pottery Playhouse The Location: Goldsboro If every day was like my day at KeepSakes Pottery Playhouse, I probably would never leave work. It involved bubbles, popsicles and toddlers, basically my three favorite things....Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Cheaper gas might boost summer travel
With gas prices dropping in recent weeks, travel experts are saying they expect more people on the roads this summer. But many Wayne County residents still recall the high prices of recent years and aren't ready to give up...Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Mt. Olive Pickle unveils new jar labels
MOUNT OLIVE -- A famous Mount Olive icon is significantly changing its appearance for the first time in more than 40 years. Mt. Olive Pickle Co. products are hitting store shelves with new labels this summer as the company phases...Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Miss Goldsboro to show off wardrobe
Miss Goldsboro 2010 Ashlee Perkinson will hold her wardrobe showing from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Herman Park Center and, for the first time, the public is invited. She will be competing in the Miss North Carolina competition in...Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Correction
A story in Sunday's News-Argus about student housing at Mount Olive College incorrectly said the college will work with the Sleep Inn to accommodate students. The college has arranged to provide rooms for students at the Southern Belle Motel....Published: Jun 7, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Pikeville firefighters open their new station
PIKEVILLE -- With sirens blaring and lights activated, the Pikeville Pleasant Grove fire engines pulled into their new bay Saturday morning. The engines were one of the last things to be moved from the former fire department to the...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Patrol: Speeders will get tickets
The state Highway Patrol will be out in force in Wayne and surrounding counties this week -- with a warning to the driving public. As thousands of students finish up classes and many of them graduate and make plans...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
A robe passes from one Jones to another
Almost from the moment the late District Court Judge Arnold Jones took the bench to begin his career, he had a shadow -- his son, Arnold Jones II. "My daddy was elected as District Court judge when I was...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Pikeville police donate bikes to local children
Pikeville police are trying to make sure children in town have a set of wheels this summer. Police Chief Pascal Tucker said the police department is accepting donated bikes, in any condition. "Even if the bikes aren't good to go,...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Born learning
Envi Ford, 3, plays connect four at the Boys and Girls Club booth Saturday at the fifth annual Born Learning Children's Festival was held at Herman Park. The festival was attended by more than 2,000 people with 40 booths that...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Comrades after arms
His eyes focused on an F-15E Strike Eagle climbing into the clouds, Nguyen Hong My bent back his fingers and tilted his arm -- using his hand to mimic the aircraft's every movement as it began rolling across the horizon....Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Tickling the ivories: Pianist tries to make a difference through music
Jeremy Thompson sits down at the piano and his fingers begin racing across the keys, pausing here and there for a special effect. As the notes ring out in harmony, he is taken from the moment to a place far,...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Hill receives MOC's top teaching honor for '10
MOUNT OLIVE -- Dr. David Hill is the 2010 recipient of the distinguished Dr. Thomas R. Morris Award for Excellence in Teaching at Mount Olive College. The award is given to a full-time faculty member who demonstrates excellence in...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Non-profit organized to help provide athletic, artistic opportunity
The Live On Foundation, a non-profit organization to help children and teenagers living in alternative homes such as foster homes, orphanages, etc., will be holding a benefit concert, "A Night Of Dreams," at 7 p.m. Paramount Theatre on June...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Host families needed for foreign exchange students
Host families for foreign students visiting the United States through East Carolina University's Terra Lingua/Terre des Langues program are being sought in the Goldsboro area. Homes for three high school students from Spain are needed between now and July 28,...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Meadow Lane students reach out to help Diamonds in the Ruff
Diana Cullipher and Rebecca Rodriguez happily clung to their stuffed animals as they walked down the hallway at Meadow Lane Elementary School on Friday. Diana brought in a light brown horse a friend bought for her during a trip...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Mount Olive College seeing rapid campus growth
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive College is taking a pro-active approach to the school's growing pains by securing additional housing for students and making other changes to improve campus life. Increasing the school's traditional student population has been one...Published: Jun 6, 2010 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, June 4, 2010
Former Pikeville resident killed on highway
A former Pikeville resident and business owner was killed early Thursday morning in Maryland. Ghassen "Gus" Sabra, 52, was stuck and killed by a vehicle around 1 a.m. while on Route 50 in Anne Arundel County, Md. The vehicle...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin schools examine offer to compromise over funding
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Education disagreed Thursday on a funding compromise proposed by the county commissioners. Part of the memorandum of understanding drafted by the commissioners proposed an action that was not a legal option, the school...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Solar energy panels help company conserve
Jackson and Sons Heating and Air Conditioning is now producing more electricity than it can use, thanks to about 110 solar panels on its warehouse roof. The solar panels are supplying enough power to run the 20,000-square-foot warehouse on Indian...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Police are searching for clues in shooting
Goldsboro police have not officially developed a suspect in a Monday afternoon shooting that took the life of a 19-year-old man near a convenience store, Maj. Jeff Stewart said this morning. Stacey Lamar Edwards, who lived just blocks from...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Airman earns third Bronze Star
Van Hood is somewhat nonchalant when he talks about his 16-year career -- laughing about the day mortar blasted just beyond the reach of his unit; detailing, with a smile, the moment an Air Force recruiter told him he "could...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
False fire reports The Goldsboro Fire Department and Goldsboro police were looking into a person who allegedly made multiple false fire calls to the county's emergency communications center. Police said they knew the calls came from the 400 block of...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
County still looking at spending for 2010-11
Concerns about a $156 million county budget proposal beset by disappearing state funds and questions about the county's preliminary capital improvement plan and pay-as-you-go projects consumed the major portion of a Thursday morning county budget workshop. The session was...Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Saturday pecan orchard tour open to all interested
Tim and Karen Haithcock will host the N.C. Pecan Growers Association for a spring orchard tour and workshop on Saturday. The event is open to anyone involved or interested in pecan farming. The cost is $15 and includes lunch....Published: Jun 4, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Food stamp rules changing this July
More people in Wayne County will qualify for nutrition benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services program beginning July 1. People who make up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level will meet the income requirement to receive food...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspects sought in meth lab blast
Three people are facing charges after a flash fire-type explosion at an alleged operating meth lab at a single-wide trailer in the 1300 block of Stevens Mill Road, authorities said early today. Authorities are searching for Brittany Ann Futrell, 20,...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Reading dog George hangs up his collar
George Pettypool has spent the last four years at Meadow Lane Elementary School helping students improve their reading and communication skills, simply by being a good listener. Quiet and attentive, he has enjoyed the weekly visits where each student spent...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
N.C. DOT worker dies in trailer truck crash
WARSAW -- A state Department of Transportation worker was killed Wednesday and two others were injured in an accident on Interstate 40 in Duplin County. Jonathan King, 21, of Autryville was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer truck while...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Board to review county budget
Wayne County's $156 million budget proposal was expected to be the subject of a morning work session for county commissioners today. The session was actually a continuation of the board's Tuesday meeting. A second workshop, if necessary, will be...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
DGDC chief speaks out on loss of rec center
More than a month after members of the Goldsboro City Council voted to not move forward with construction of a recreation center along Center Street, the loss is still being felt by those who have worked for the last...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Committee prepares to start work filling school board seat
With applications already being submitted, meetings should begin within the next couple of weeks for the nonpartisan committee charged with making a recommendation to county commissioners for someone to fill the unexpired District 2 school board term of Shirley...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Progress Energy to hold local vendor fair
Progress Energy is planning on having a vendor fair Monday for its upcoming power plant project in Wayne County. The fair is for local companies interested in learning more about possible work opportunities associated with the power plant. "The...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Rotary community service grant applications now being accepted until June 8
The Community Service Committee of the Goldsboro Rotary Club has opened a grant application period. Local non-profit organizations seeking funding are asked to complete an application form by June 8. These forms may be obtained from club President Fletcher...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville residents won't see rate hikes
Pikeville town commissioners moved forward with their proposed budget for 2010-11 Tuesday. The proposed budget doesn't have any tax or utility rate increases, but the monthly water tower maintenance fee will increase from $2 to $3 if the budget...Published: Jun 3, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
County rejects rezoning request near base
County policy discouraging development, even in the outer buffer zones surrounding Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, remained intact Tuesday morning after commissioners were unanimous in their rejection of a rezoning request. But even though the board refused to rezone...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Ready, set, showcase
Kristine Wright, art instructor with the city's ArtSmarts after school program, gives TeRique Butler, 11, a high five after she named the primary colors with Aaron Miranda, 8, looking on. The trio was preparing for the ArtSmarts Performance and Exhibit...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Recent rains shore up health of local crops
The much-needed rain these past two weeks was a welcome sight to area farmers. Field Extension Agent Kevin Johnson said it had been about five weeks since crops had substantial rain. "All the crops are looking good in the area,...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont may raise water, sewer rates
The Fremont Board of Aldermen finally reached a budget its members could agree on at Tuesday night's work session. The new proposed budget, which will be voted on at the town's June 15 meeting, calls for a 5 percent increase...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Holiday slow for traffic citations
State Highway Patrol troopers joked during the Memorial Day weekend that half of Wayne County's population must have been in either Carteret or New Hanover counties, enjoying themselves at the beach. That led to a slow week overall in...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin school board weighs compromise on funding lawsuit
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Education examined a compromise Tuesday that could avoid a potential 14-cent supplemental tax levy for county residents and begin rebuilding the board's working relationship with the county commissioners. Duplin County commission Chairman Cary...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
One-stop voting set to open for second primary
One-stop voting will begin Thursday for the Democratic primary rematch between U.S. Senate hopefuls Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. It is the only race on the June 22 second primary ballot when all of the county's 30 precincts polls...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Stabbing A West Oak Street man was stabbed after he was approached by a man he didn't know just after noon on Monday, accusing him of "hollering at his girl." The victim said he and the suspect, described as a...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Edgertons receive Long Leaf Pine honor
A local Goldsboro couple with a long history of helping others received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Gov. Beverly Perdue last week. Bill and Jan Edgerton, founders of Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne, received the award...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
After 40 years, shipmates reunite at Wilber's Barbecue
Laughter served up over barbecue and fried chicken melted away the 40 years since the three shipmates had seen each other, and for a brief time they were back aboard their ship, if only in their memories. For Garry...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
EWHS cheerleaders headed to Gator Bowl
Eastern Wayne High School cheerleaders have even more to cheer about these days, since being invited to participate in the Gator Bowl parade and halftime show at year's end. Kerri Lee, cheerleading coach at the school for seven years,...Published: Jun 2, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Man, 19, dies after shooting at store
Police are looking for a suspect and a motive in a shooting that took the life of a 19-year-old Maple Street man outside a city convenience store on Monday afternoon, police said. Stacey Lamar Edwards was killed after being...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
As the shirts whiz by ...
The Job: Steamer, sorter The Company: UniFirst Corporation The Location: Goldsboro Dear Ricky, Sorry about your shirt. Sincerely, Laura "That'll be $20," said UniFirst plant manager John Gedeon after I ripped a hole in a shirt while trying to remove...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Inquiry comes in meth lab blast
Authorities are not ready to release the names of the suspects in a flash fire type explosion at an alleged meth lab near Cherry Hospital, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office methamphetamine specialist said late Monday. Cpl. Chris Peedin, who...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Habitat will sell bricks dedicated to those who serve
Just in time for Memorial Day, Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne unveiled its Build a Foundation program to honor or memorialize the dedication of local men and women. Over the next month, Habitat will sell memorial bricks with two-line spaces...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Honoring heroes
For much of Monday morning, Judith Olsen kept her face in her hands -- hiding swollen eyes and wet cheeks from the hundreds who turned out to honor the fallen at Wayne Community College. But when an image of a...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Residents enjoy day, remember sacrifices
The smell of fresh peaches filled the air as a steady stream of local residents visited the Country Fruit Stand No. 3 on Highway 117 in Pikeville Monday afternoon. The residents were buying last-minute items for their Memorial Day cookouts...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Special Olympics names award winners
Special Olympics Wayne County recently named its annual award winners. Shannon Moore was named male athlete of the year and Heather Pardue was named female athlete of the year, both for independents or agencies. In the same category for...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Fire investigation Wayne County Sheriff's Office detectives are looking into the cause of a Friday fire at 1552 Kelly Springs Road in Mount Olive, reports show. The home is owned by James Barwick, 48, and caused an estimated $15,000 worth...Published: Jun 1, 2010 1:46 PM Full Story