May 2011 archives

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Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Cuts slim down WCC summer course offerings

Budget cuts that have impacted higher education institutions across the country have not spared Wayne Community College, but while summer offerings are more abbreviated than in past years, there are still many courses for college students to continue their...

Tribute to heroes

His voice, at times, trembling, Patrick Doherty fought back tears as he unwrapped a boyhood memory for the 100-plus who turned out for a public vigil designed to honor those who have died for their country. His father, he told...

Woman saved after driving SUV into pond

The identity of a woman who was rescued by the Arr-Mac Water Dive Team after she drove her Isuzu Trooper into a pond at the intersection of Providence Church Road and U.S. 13 South early this morning was unavailable...

Salvation Army chiefs take on new challenge

Salvation Army Maj. Andrew Wiley was working in the organization's social service office when a woman came in desperate for help for her sister, who was in the hospital. A minor surgery had developed complications and her sister's stay at...

Two injured in Ash Street hit and run

Authorities are searching for a suspect in a hit-and-run traffic accident at the corner of Ash and Kornegay streets Monday evening that overturned an SUV and sent a teenager and a 10-month-old child to the hospital. The suspect was...

Farmer's market opens Wednesday

The return of the farmer's market to Goldsboro will be marked this Wednesday by a premiere event, featuring singers from Dillard Academy Charter and appearances by Mayor Al King and interim City Manager Tasha Logan Wednesday at 9:15 a.m....

Blood donations needed this summer

Now that summer is here, the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross is asking local businesses, churches and civic groups to sponsor blood drives. And, to help draw both sponsors and donors, the Red Cross is offering...

Visitors center, museum set to open Friday at Cliffs

After two years of construction, a new museum and visitor center at the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park will open with a dedication ceremony Friday at 10:30 a.m. The 7,000-square-foot facility will enable visitors to get a glimpse of...

Monday, May 30, 2011

Ivey is named Partnership for Children director

A veteran educator has been named executive director for the Partnership for Children of Wayne County, which also manages Smart Start. Charles Ivey III, principal at Spring Creek Elementary School since it opened 12 years ago, will take over the...

Veteran recalls service at memorial to fallen

MOUNT OLIVE -- Hugh Howard was just two days shy of his 22nd birthday when the B-17 on which he was a crew member was shot down over Germany in 1944. Captured by the Germans, Howard spent the next...

A hero's legacy

It started with a despondent gaze -- her face void of emotion as she began fielding questions about the man she referred to, simply, as "my love." She lit up when she remembered their first date -- laughing as...

Greene bluegrass concert June 14

SNOWHILL -- "Bluegrass in the Courtyard," sponsored by the Greene County Performing Arts Series, will be held Tuesday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m. in the courtyard of the the Greene County Museum at the corner of Third and North Greene...

Virginia man drowns at Busco Beach

A 31-year-old man drowned while swimming at Busco Beach on Sunday evening. The body of Samuel Evans Turner, of Courtland, Va., was recovered by a dive team around 7 p.m. Members of Arr-Mac Water Response Team, which includes members...

Public record

Investigations Goldsboro police are investigating these reports: * Stephen Cole Sumrell of Glen Oak Drive reported the theft of a GPS valued at $150 and Blackberry phone valued at $600 from his vehicle. * Charles Little, of Selma, told...

Families sought to host foreign students

Families are being sought in the Goldsboro area to serve as hosts for high school students from Spain and France. Five students from Spain will be staying in eastern North Carolina between June 24 and July 23 and five high...

Sunday, May 29, 2011

County to remember fallen heroes

Flags have already been placed on the graves of those Wayne County residents who served their country, but there are still several opportunities for locals to commemorate Memorial Day. And those area veterans who have been planning their respective...

Alumni bridging the gap

Five-year-old Kimya Easley has a simple philosophy when it comes to parades -- the best ones are where they give out candy. "I have lollipops and this (candy). I just looked at (the band). I like the flag girls,"...

Old friends reunited, new ones made

Saturday afternoon's rain might have sent members of the Central/Eastern Wayne Alumni and Friends seeking shelter under tents and in their cars, but even then they still reminisced as they renewed friendships and made new ones. Prior to the...

New Asperger's school captures interest, funds

As soon as it was made public that Wayne County will have a new school for children with Asperger's syndrome, Nancy Black was flooded with phone calls and e-mails from interested families. She said she has also been approached to...

Wayne Country Day seniors take next steps to the future

For the 20 seniors who took home diplomas from Wayne Country Day Friday, their passage to adulthood also was marked by their alma mater's impending transformation. Just after the tassels were turned on the graduation caps and the last speech...

School of Engineering honors its first graduating class

Jerry Gurgainous II felt like he was in a whole new world of opportunities when he stepped through the doors of Wayne School of Engineering for the first time four years ago. He felt the same way as he walked...

Fans available for heat relief

A limited number of fans are available through the Fan Heat Relief Program from WAGES (580-1790) and Wayne County Services on Aging (731-1591). Applicant Eligibility Criteria: * Must reside in Wayne County; * Must be an adult: 60 years...

Students say goodbye to Wayne Christian Academy -- their 'second home'

For Wayne Christian School graduate Lindsey Whaley, walking out of the gym doors for the last time after Saturday's commencement ceremonies truly was the end of an era. Every weekday morning, ever since she was eight weeks old, Lindsey...

Suicide support group to start

A new suicide support group is being started in Goldsboro. The new organization, Touched by Suicide Support Group, will hold its first meeting on Tuesday, June 7, at 6:30 p.m. at Freedom Baptist Church, 300 Country Day Road. Meetings...

Mayor recalls start of proposal to annex

How did the Goldsboro City Council -- and city government -- come up with the idea to annex the Buck Swamp and Falling Brook areas? The city's mayor said the suggestion was first made during a trip back from...

First Seymour Johnson AFB public information officer dies

Lt. Col. Gerald M. Holland, 82, died last week in Springfield, Va. Holland was the first assigned public information officer during the reactivation of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. He was reassigned from Saudi Arabia and arrived at Seymour...

Public record

Shots fired on roadway A 21-year-old man reported to Goldsboro police that someone fired shots into the vehicle he was driving in the 500 block of Wayne Avenue around 11:20 Thursday. According to the police report, the vehicle had...

Mount Olive sets hearing on budget

MOUNT OLIVE -- Town commissioners met for less than 15 minutes Thursday night to accept the town's $4.7 million draft budget and establish a public hearing on the proposal for June 6. The budget public hearing is expected to...

Wayne's jobless number is stable

Wayne County was among 17 counties in North Carolina to see no change in unemployment rates from March until April as the countywide percentage remained at 8.3 percent according to Friday's report from the Employment Security Commission of North...

Friday, May 27, 2011

Chamber to launch fundraising campaign

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce is planning to unveil a new fundraising effort that will concentrate its campaigning for donations and sponsorships into a seven-week period beginning in August rather than asking for donations on an event-by-event basis...

WCC, MOC ink partnership deal to benefit students

Wayne Community College and Mount Olive College formalized a partnership agreement Thursday that will enhance and expand options for community college students. The articulation arrangement will not only allow students a more seamless transfer from the associate degree programs...

A graduation of firsts

How many high school graduation ceremonies hand out diplomas and associate degrees and have a speaker chosen by the president of the United States? Wayne Early/Middle College High School celebrated that distinction Thursday night, along with another milestone -- it...

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Former SJAFB pilot is on board Endeavour flight

Retired Air Force Col. Gregory H. Johnson, NASA astronaut: After graduating from the Air Force Academy in May 1984, Johnson was designated an Air Force pilot in May 1986 at Reese Air Force Base, Texas. He was retained as a...

Shuttle escort

From the backseat of an F-15E Strike Eagle, Capt. Neil Mercer took it all in -- an object breaking through the clouds; the slow climb and sudden burst of speed unfolding across the clear, blue sky. "The whole time we're...

Revaluation notices are in the mail

Property revaluation notices are in the mail, and Wayne County property owners shouldn't be surprised to learn that overall the values have increased countywide. The biggest change was seen in the northern part of the county, where more growth...

Rosewood counselor sets his sights on scholarship dollars

Nineteen of the 120 seniors at Rosewood High School have received more than $13,000 in scholarships to attend Wayne Community College in the fall. But the impressive part of that story, says Jack Kannan, executive director of the WCC Foundation,...

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Duplin ponders tax hike

KENANSVILLE -- With a $3.4 million budget deficit for the coming year, Duplin County officials said their only options are to raise taxes or reach into the county's shrinking savings account. After reviewing a budget proposal for 2011-12 at...

Officials: Pink water safe to drink

Southern Wayne Sanitary District water customers whose water appeared pink in color have nothing to be concerned about according to water superintendent Mike Garris. Garris said the discoloration was due to a slightly higher concentration of potassium permanganate in...

Memorial Day closings announced

Local, state and federal government offices, along with most banks, will be closed Monday in observance of the Memorial Day holiday, including the following: * Wayne County Public Schools * Wayne County government offices * The city of Goldsboro (All...

WCC trustees discuss impact of state budget

Wayne Community College officials discussed the state budget and its possible impact on the school Tuesday night at a meeting of the school's Board of Trustees. Word came out earlier in the day that the state Senate budget was being...

Public record

Two charged in Mar Mac assault and robbery The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a man and woman May 19 on charges of assault and robbery. Alec Christopher Grant, 27, of Sandhill Drive, and Adeline Marie Reeves, 25, of Ridge...

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Lady in the Park back at city park

John Albert grasped the railing at Herman Park's fountain, leaned forward and peered at the statue known affectionately as "The Lady in the Park." The Parks and Recreation superintendent sounded like a proud father as he talked about plans...

Veterans to mark Memorial Day with events

For those local residents who have lost a loved one to war, this weekend is about far more than afternoon cookouts and trips to the beach. Memorial Day, they say, is another opportunity to remember the beloved sons, daughters, wives,...

Officers help carry Special Olympics torch on run

Achy muscles. Sweaty T-shirts. Smiles. That was the scene at the Greene County Courthouse around noon Friday as a group of about 40 runners finished a nearly 23-mile run that started hours earlier at the Goldsboro Police Department. The run...

Goldsboro names new city manager

Goldsboro City Council announced Monday afternoon that the position of city manager, vacant since February, will be filled by Kinston City Manager Scott Stevens. Stevens, 44, will take the position beginning Aug. 8 and will receive an annual salary...

Senators: Saving money, school success part of plan

As state senators begin debate on their $19.3 billion spending plan today, only about $60 million separate them from their colleagues in the House. "I think we're close together," Sen. Louis Pate, R-Wayne, said. "I think we'll be able...

Monday, May 23, 2011

Six injured in Sunday scuffle at apartment

Six people, including four teenagers, were shot while attending a party in the 400 block of North George Street around 12:30 a.m. Sunday. No one was killed, but all the victims were transported to Wayne Memorial Hospital, and two...

GATEWAY official says no plans for 'takeover'

When the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners notified GATEWAY it was dissolving its benefit pool, it meant more than 60 employees were in danger of losing their health insurance coverage beginning July 31. With less than 90 days...

Hood named Middle Art Educator

Rosewood Middle School art teacher Benny Hood was named Zeno Spence Middle Art Educator for 2010-11, during the Wayne County Public Schools' annual visual arts reception which also recognized 36 student artists. The ceremonies have been held for 20...

Community Day at H.V. Brown

The second annual Bike Show & Community Day sponsored by Hit Squad, I Refuse Ryders, Redliners, R-Riders, Carolina Heat and Turn Key bike clubs featured games for kids, inflatables and free food and refreshments....

Seven Springs hopes signs will be returned

SEVEN SPRINGS -- A thief last week showed little love to Seven Springs when he stole one of the town's welcome signs along N.C. 55 East. Several years ago, town matriarch Ola Mae Adams, former owner and operator of...

Health Department sets its sights on diabetes rates

Knowing that diabetes rates are higher among some minority populations, the Health Department has decided to take its message to the streets. Janice Johnson began serving as coordinator of the Community Health Assessments Program (CHAPS) in March. The initiative had...

Stoney Creek Park grant for nearly $8,000 more

Goldsboro is getting nearly $8,000 more dollars for improvements at Stoney Creek Park. The Parks and Recreation Trust Fund grant Goldsboro's Parks and Recreation Department received was for $7,750 more than what was originally requested, Interim Parks and Recreation...

Sunflower weather

After an eight-mile bike ride, Bill Dunevant and Chris Koch stop to admire the sunflowers and other plants growing at the Library Garden located between the Wayne County Public Library and Herman Park. Wayne County residents should expect to...

Sunday, May 22, 2011

2011 Wayne County Relay for Life

Kathy Barrow, a member of the Purtty Team, ties a ribbon to honor Frances and Carl Thornton. Mrs. Thornton is a cancer survivor. Her son, Carl, succumbed to his battle with cancer. The Purtty Team Relays for them. The...

The sights, sounds and people of Relay For Life 2011

The sights, sounds and people of Relay for Life 2011....

Friday, May 20, 2011

Benefit planned for local family

It's been more than two years since 12-year-old Taylor Gambrel was struck by a car while riding his bike near the family's Elroy home. And while he survived 190 days in a coma and completed extended therapies at home, one...

Public record

Elderly woman has $10K in cash stolen An 87-year-old Dudley woman filed a report with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Tuesday claiming a breaking and entering and larceny. The woman claims someone had pried open her back windows and...

They are ready to Relay

After months of preparation, members of Relay for Life teams started setting up tents and grills early today at Wayne Community College, ready for a night of celebrating and remembering. The annual event starts this evening with a survivors...

Survivor shares stories of hope and laughter

The gymnasium at First Pentecostal Holiness Church was filled to capacity Thursday evening -- standing room only. But no one complained about not having a seat or being crowded around the 30 or so tables that filled the room,...

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Private school graduations ready to begin this weekend

Three private schools will kick off the high school commencement season, beginning with the first ceremony later this week. In addition to announcing details of individual ceremonies, school officials have named valedictorians and salutatorians. Faith Christian Academy will lead off...

Mo-ped stop results in three-hour suspect chase

A Mount Olive man was arrested after a three-hour manhunt in Goldsboro Wednesday afternoon. Randy A. Johnson, 27, Stanley Chapel Church Road, has been charged with misdemeanor assault on a government official, resisting an officer and several traffic violations. He...

Fremont officer is appealing his firing

FREMONT -- The Fremont Town Board went into closed session during Wednesday's meeting to consider an appeal by a police officer who was fired last month. Town officials terminated the employment of Rodney Jarman and he has appealed. The...

County wary of taking on GATEWAY expense

From the 8 a.m. work session to the commissioners' final comments, the county's proposed acceptance of GATEWAY employees into its health insurance program dominated this week's Wayne County Board of Commissioners meeting. The board was sharply divided on what...

Kiwanis officers are elected

At the annual meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Goldsboro held last week, new officers and board members were elected. The club president is Harlon Neil, president-elect is Donna Phillips and the vice president is Nathan Joyner. New board...

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Yarboro receives BSA Distinguished Citizen Award

Former Tuscarora Boy Scout Council President Tom Yarboro received the council's Distinguished Citizen Award on Tuesday at a banquet held at the Walnut Creek Country Club. Yarboro, an executive with Goldsboro Milling Co., was lauded for his service to...

County buys buildings

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved the purchase of three buildings at 2001 Ash Street to house the county's Services for Aging Department. The cost of the buildings, which are currently occupied by Sportsman's World, Nash...

Opening Park Avenue still on council's agenda

When Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission Chairman Jerry Phillips presented his group's recommendations to the City Council on how to open up the portion of Park Avenue that runs through Herman Park while keeping park visitors safe, he noted...

Jaycee DSA nominations still open

Applications for the Goldsboro Jaycees annual Distinguished Service Award are still being accepted. The award will be presented at the organization's annual Awards Banquet on Monday, May 23. Tickets also are still available for the event by contacting Brantley...

Youth Council receives awards

Several local youths received awards at the spring convention of the State Youth Council at Carolina Beach. The convention was sponsored by the Youth Advocacy and Involvement Office and hosted by the Cary Teen Council. The Goldsboro Mayor's Youth Council...

Relay for Life food list

Team No. 1 -- The First Pentecostal Holiness Church, Location: Campsite No. 83 to 85 * Ribeye sandwich * Barbecue pork sandwich * Grilled or fried chicken sandwich * Grilled or fried pork chop sandwich * Pizza * French fries...

Hanging in there

Breanna Summerlin, 8, strains to stay on the monkey bars at Herman Park. For people who want to hang out outdoors this week it may be a strain with thunderstorms in the forecast every day....

Postal food drive

Postal employee Glendale Wiggins sorts some of the 12,850 pounds of canned goods and other non-perishables collected by mail carriers along their routes Saturday at the William Street post office. The food will go to help the Community Soup...

MPO worrried about bill on U.S. 70 medians

Decisions involving highway safety and design are best left to local government and transportation organizations that are more involved and knowledgeable about local needs than state lawmakers, members of the Goldsboro Metropolitan Planning Organization said at a meeting last...

Junior Miss seeking entries

Wayne County Junior Miss is undergoing a name change, but is still looking for rising high school senior girls to compete in this year's scholarship program. The local affiliate is an official preliminary of America's Distinguished Young Woman national...

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Four Eastern Wayne High School senior earn $12,500 in scholarships

Four Eastern Wayne High School seniors have been awarded $12,500 in scholarships from the Emmet and Mary Robinson Trust Fund. The trust fund was set up by the Robinsons to award annual scholarships to students who attend a Wayne County...

Crops: So far, so good

Moderate temperatures coupled with the right amount of rainfall at the right time have created near-perfect growing conditions for the county's crops. However, Cooperative Extension Service director Kevin Johnson can't forget last year. "My biggest fear is another hot, dry...

Organizations ask for city funds

The Goldsboro City Council heard pleas Monday night from a number of agencies and organizations that expect to have their funding from the city reduced or eliminated in the 2011-12 proposed budget. The council is considering severe cuts across...

Public record

Woman found dead Goldsboro police are investigating the death of a 23-year-old woman whom Kyle Hogan, 30, found unresponsive in her bed at their shared residence on Paul Street. Amy Hatchcock was unresponsive when officers arrived on the scene and...

Monday, May 16, 2011

Confederate Memorial Day

Dr. John Booker and Stacey Jones place three wreaths -- one for the Dr. B.T. Person Camp, one for the Goldsboro Rifle Camp and one for the Smithfield Light Infantry -- in front of the Civil War Confederate Monument in...

Butterflies fly at Kitty Askins chapel

As prayers and butterflies both floated toward the heavens Sunday afternoon, a group of nearly 50 people gathered to dedicate the new Mount Olive Area Chapel at Kitty Askins. The chapel, which was built as part of the hospice...

County: Voting changes will save money

Wayne County elections director Vicki Reed says reducing the number of days that polls are open for one-stop voting would save her department nearly $60,000 an election, but that the decision was not likely to be popular with voters....

Memorial set for former GHS music teacher

George Trautwein cruised into town in his cream Jaguar in the late 1950s, taking a teaching job at Goldsboro High School to help pay for his new car, and wound up being a beloved music teacher to some "pony-tailed, loafered...

City budget cuts funds for GHS grad coach, plus non-profits

The city's first proposed budget contained no appropriations for the American Red Cross, Project Uplift, WATCH or the Boys and Girls Club and would effectively end Communities in Schools' graduation coach at Goldsboro High School. City Manager Tasha Logan...

Public record

DVDs stolen from library An unidentified black male reportedly made away with $180 worth of DVDs from Wayne County Public Library on Thursday afternoon, according to Goldsboro police. Matt Bolen of the library alleged that the man removed discs from...

City Council will hear redistricting comments

The public will have its first opportunity to sound off on the city's proposed 2011-12 budget plan at tonight's City Council meeting at City Hall at 7 p.m. The council's work session will begin at 5 p.m. The budget,...

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Ready to Relay? County teams pulling out fundraising stops for Friday event

It's not about the taste of a homemade applejack. It's not about winning a simple carnival game. It's about celebrating, if only for a few hours, the courage of those who have fought their way to another birthday -- and...

Goldsboro High students behind on graduation projects

How many of the 126 Goldsboro High School seniors will graduate this year? With less than four weeks to go before commencement, officials say that a number of students are still scurrying to complete their graduation projects, a prerequisite...

City Council unveils budget proposal

Cuts to the city's budget, including the continued freezing of vacant positions, brought about heated discussion during the City Council's budget work session Tuesday. District 4 Councilman the Rev. Charles Williams was particularly outspoken against the changes, asking if...

Man shot at Fast Eddie's

A 21-year-old Dudley man was reportedly shot outside of Fast Eddie's Sports Bar and Grill on Parkway Avenue over the weekend. According to a report filed by Goldsboro police, Jeremy Stokes of Durham Lake Road was shot in his...

Man arrested for sexual assault, kidnapping

A Four Oaks man has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting and kidnapping a Goldsboro woman in April and May. Walter V. Cogdell, 48, was charged Wednesday with two counts of second-degree kidnapping, three counts of second-degree rape, and...

Stepping out in Seven Springs for Ole Timey Days

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Threatening skies and impending storms held off Saturday, at least long enough for the 11th annual Ole Timey Days festival to go off without a hitch. Vance Davenport of LaGrange said his wife asked him why...

Curriculum will require more writing of students

Parents and students should expect a lot more writing in all subject areas as Wayne County Public Schools joins N.C. and 47 other states that have adopted new curriculum standards, officials say. "The curriculum will be changing as a...

Mount Olive native receives highest Coast Guard honor

RONES CHAPEL -- A Mount Olive native, U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. William E. "Bill" Sasser Jr., 43, a recipient of the U.S. Coast Guard's Distinguished Flying Cross, has been listed on the Coast Guard's Wall of Gallantry. The...

Local band welcomes Scotty, performs

A band with Goldsboro ties performed with North Carolina's "American Idol" contestant during his hometown visit Saturday afternoon. Scotty McCreery, a high school student from Garner, has been a fan favorite since Hollywood Week. His rich baritone voice was...

Volunteers offer services for UW's 2011 Day of Caring

Janet Miller and Tisha Johnson know what it's like to go for days without being able to bathe or even brush your teeth. So when the two paralegals found out the Red Cross was asking the community to fill...

Autism group reorganizes to offer more services to local families

Terry Daily is raising his 7-year-old granddaughter. But the challenges he and his wife face go way beyond starting over after having been parents to their own children. Kimberly has autism. And because she's non-verbal, she has required speech...

Friday, May 13, 2011

Former longtime fire chief chosen for national award

FAISON -- Glenn Jernigan, former Duplin County sheriff and former longtime chief of the Faison Fire Department, has become the first North Carolinian to receive the National Volunteer Fire Council's Lifetime Achievement Award. The award, presented annually by Scott...

March jobless rate down in Wayne, but up in Greene

Wayne County's unemployment rate dropped by 0.3 percent from February to March, according to the latest statistics from the Employment Security Commission of North Carolina. Wayne's February mark of 8.5 percent fell to 8.2 percent in March, according to...

Changes to state rules on annexing get first OK

All of Wayne County state representatives voted in favor of the involuntary annexation reform bill Thursday. Sponsored by Rep. Stephen LaRoque, R-Lenoir, the bill is the first major overhaul of annexation rules that have been in effect since 1959....

Injured airman identified

The 4th Fighter Wing Security Forces airman who was injured early Sunday morning in Afghanistan has been identified by the Air Force. Staff Sgt. Ben Seekell is currently being treated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for injuries sustained when...

Copper hunting: Vacant houses are one of first places thieves strike

As the prices of precious metals have risen, so, too, have the frequency of metal thefts. In the past four months alone, Goldsboro police have received more than 80 reports of metal thefts. Most involved thieves stripping copper and...

Sheriff's office holding lost bikes

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is preparing to clear nearly 25 bicycles from a storage area. The bikes have been found abandoned throughout the county. Some of the bikes have been in the possession of the Sheriff's Office for...

Student arrested for filing false kidnapping report

Mychayla Sariah Allen, 16, of Woodcroft Drive, was arrested Thursday by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office for filing a false report to a law enforcement agency. Ms. Allen, a student at Charles B. Aycock, is accused of fabricating a...

Mental health advocates voice concerns

Just over a year ago, Anna Boyd would have lacked the skills and self assurance to speak before a crowd. She was front and center of nearly 100 people last week, though, as she pleaded with state Sen. Louis...

Thursday, May 12, 2011

New rules for municipal annexation approved

The state House voted overwhelmingly to approve new rules for municipal annexation today. The primary change would be to allow property owners to block an involuntary annexation if 60 percent of them formally oppose it. A final vote will...

Debate continues over Park Avenue closure decision

Despite some discussion of the continued mystery as to how Herman Park's Park Avenue thoroughfare was closed and remained closed for more than a year, the Recreation and Parks Advisory Commission answered City Council's call Wednesday for ideas on...

Get diploma: WCC commencement was culmination of years of hard work

Deborah Carter may have looked slightly out of place in the lineup at Wednesday evening's Wayne Community College graduation, being the only one not outfitted in the traditional cap and gown. But she didn't mind a bit, as she...

Mail carriers picking up food Saturday

The local chapter of the National Association of Letter Carriers and Rural Carriers, in partnership with United Way of Wayne County, will be conducting a food drive Saturday. The local drive is part of a national effort by more...

Public record

Grocer gets scammed A report was filed Tuesday with the Goldsboro police accusing an unknown person of switching price tags on grocery items at Carlie C's. The report states that a $4 price tag was removed from an item...

Shooting victim taken to Pitt Memorial

A Goldsboro man was airlifted to Pitt Memorial Hospital after being shot at his home early this morning. Decarlos Andre McNair, 38, was shot in the head and arm around 3:30 a.m. during an altercation with three unknown men,...

Bike tour of gardens set for Friday

A "movement" that has been gaining momentum across Goldsboro for several years will take another step forward Friday, as members of the Wayne Food Initiative host a bike tour of local community gardens. And event organizers hope to draw a...

Duplin notifies 210 of possible layoffs

Duplin County school officials announced Wednesday plans to cut 210 positions for the 2011-12 year, including teachers, teacher assistants and other employees. This morning, school Superintendent Dr. Austin Obasohan explained that the Duplin Board of Education, which approved the...

K-9 team tracks down burglary suspect

A 19-year-old LaGrange man was arrested last week following two morning break-ins earlier this month in the Dudley area. Casey Reberto Maddox, of Piney Grove Church Road, was charged by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office with two counts of...

Butterball gives turkeys to storm victims

Butterball, the nation's largest turkey producer, donated more than 18,000 pounds of turkey to charitable organizations in North Carolina and Alabama that are supplying food to victims of the severe weather that struck the Southeast several weeks ago. "Our...

Girl recovering after bite by neighbor's dog

A 9-year-old Rosewood girl underwent surgery on her arm Sunday night following an attack by a neighbor's dog. Wayne County Animal Control Director Vicki Falconer said girl's injuries were severe. Falconer said the dog is a mixed breed and...

Wilson speaking at Mitchell Community College

Former Wayne Community College President Dr. Ed Wilson will be the commencement speaker at Mitchell Community College on Friday evening. Wilson retired in 2007 after having served as WCC president since 2002. He currently serves on the boards for...

Injured airman identified

The 4th Fighter Wing Security Forces airman who was injured earlier this week in Afghanistan has been identified by the Air Force. Staff Sgt. Ben Seekell is currently being treated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center for injuries sustained when...

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Public record

Man charged with sexual assault Josan Walker, 33, of Hugh Street, was charged by the Goldsboro police Tuesday with attempted second-degree rape, interfering with emergency communications and assault on a female. The alleged victim filed allegations that she was assaulted...

Day of Caring signups still available

There is still time to sign up to participate in United Way's Day of Caring that will be held Friday. Wayne residents will be out that day helping a variety of charitable and community organizations with projects ranging from...

Continental Society recognizes Comatha Johnson for long service

Ask Comatha Boyette Johnson about having an award named in her honor and she quickly shifts the focus to the youths and community that she has served during her 34 years as a member of the Goldsboro chapter of...

Goldsboro City Council votes to make another offer on Arts Council building

The city is one step closer to realizing its Air Force museum project after the Goldsboro City Council voted Tuesday to enter into a contract to buy the Arts Council of Wayne County building on Ash Street. An original...

Goldsboro police department Explorer Scouts picked for national academy

Two young men in the Goldsboro Police Department's Explorer Scouts program have been selected to participate in leadership academies held in Washington, D.C., this summer. Marcus Lewis, 20, has been with the Explorer Scouts since 2007 and will attend...

WCC tassels turn

The hallway in the Walnut Building at Wayne Community College was quieter than usual on Tuesday, despite the congested throng of students that lined up shortly after 5 p.m. The occasion, and the lack of air conditioning, transformed the group...

Wayne County gets school for students with Asperger's

Wayne County will become the first area in the nation to have a school specifically for children with Asperger's Syndrome, a high-functioning form of autism, says Nancy Black, founder and executive director of The Asperger Connection School. Ms. Black has...

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Commission delays hearing on Mount Olive road closure

Wayne County commissioners last week delayed scheduling a public hearing on the state's plans to close a section of Zion Church Road just east of Mount Olive. Commissioners had been expected to set the public hearing for June 7 ,...

Brogden student back to school after brave battle with cancer

DUDLEY -- The past few months have been tough going for Shenitha Peacock. It all started when her eldest, Isaiah, 12, began having pain in his lower back that gradually turned into shooting pains down his legs. "Every week...

County Board of Education puts its policy book online

Wayne County school board policies are now online. From governing principles and board operations to facilities and fiscal management, the public can access the complete list of district policies via computer. School officials announced that the board policy manual can...

Board sends budget plan to county

The Wayne County Board of Education Monday night voted to send its proposed $18.2 million local budget request to the county commissioners, and supported a state recommendation to oppose House Bill 344, which deals with tax credits for children with...

The 'new' guy: Kevin Johnson takes over as Extension director

Growing up on his family's farm in Lincoln County, Kevin Johnson knew at an early age that he wanted to be a Cooperative Extension Service agent. He realized that dream, and now Johnson, 41, who has been the county's...

Cherry official asks for latitude, funding

Cherry Hospital CEO Philip Cook Monday morning asked state Reps. Efton Sager, R-Wayne, and Stephen LaRoque, R-Lenoir, how much longer the facility would have to suffer because of sins of the past. Cook also argued that the hospital would...

Monday, May 9, 2011

Pedestrian killed on highway

A woman was killed on U.S. 70 East Saturday night while attempting to cross the roadway on foot around 9:30. Tammy Ferrell, 39, of West Grantham Street, was pronounced dead at Wayne Memorial Hospital after she was struck by an...

Local father receives state parenting honor

Charles Raiford is quick to admit he knew little about parenting when his first child came along. After all, he hadn't always fostered the strongest relationship with his own father, a military man formerly stationed in Goldsboro. "Me and my...

Volunteer hopes center will help at-risk youths

Patrick Lechner believes if he can provide better options for Goldsboro's troubled youths, they can create better futures for themselves. After years of spreading Christian messages in Goldsboro's often marginalized communities, Lechner is taking steps to start his own...

Pate will help state evaluate tornado response

State Sen. Louis Pate is helping head a special new legislative committee examining how well-prepared state and local officials were for last month's tornadoes that tore through 18 counties, killing 24 people. Pate explained that the committee would be...

Strawberry fields aren't forever this year

Jennifer Delisio operates a strawberry stand on Berkeley Boulevard near Lowe's for Cottle Farms.  Conditions have been good for strawberries this year, with just enough rain and moderate to warm temperatures helping to create juicy, sweet berries. But even...

No tax hike on city spending plan

The first draft of the city's budget, as distributed to the Goldsboro City Council at its last meeting, doesn't include any tax increases or increases in utility rates. The budget, which the council has said won't be adopted until...

Public record

Cars stolen Two cars were reported as stolen to Goldsboro police last week in what appeared to be separate incidents. Paul Bryant, 66 of North Taylor Street said he parked his black Ford Taurus at a church on Slocumb Street....

Former state representative earns British honor

Former 3rd District Congressman and Wayne County native Martin Lancaster has been made an Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, according to reports published by the Raleigh News & Observer and the London Examiner....

Sunday, May 8, 2011

College plans for largest class in history

The largest graduating class in the history of Wayne Community College will receive diplomas this week, in the second of two commencement ceremonies held by the school. There are an estimated 557 curriculum program candidates for the Wednesday evening ceremony,...

A pioneer waits for his new business to blossom

MOUNT OLIVE -- The first time Mount Olive First Baptist minister Dennis Atwood realized the face of his town was changing was when he was standing at the front of his church one Sunday morning in October and saw...

Mount Olive's newest 'immigrants'

MOUNT OLIVE -- When Edgar Fragelus came to Mount Olive he thought he would be improving his situation. A restaurateur in Miami for nearly 25 years, he had seen his business slump in recent years. So when he heard...

Park gets OK for $125,000 grant

The developments taking place at Stoney Creek Park received a shot in the arm Friday when the North Carolina Recreation & Parks Authority notified Interim Parks and Recreation Director Sherry Archibald that her department's application for a $125,000 grant...

Council approves resolution to OK public notices bill

The Goldsboro City Council has approved a resolution supporting bills in the General Assembly that would end municipalities' requirement to publish public notices in local newspapers. The bills, House Bill 472 and Senate Bill 773, move to amend General...

Mental health agency weighs merger

Wayne County commissioners did not appear to need any convincing by Eastpointe Director Ken Jones that the agency should take a lead role as the state prepares to shrink the number of public mental health, developmental disabilities and substance abuse...

Wayne students fare well in FFA competition

Nearly 350 high school students from 13 counties converged upon the Wayne Community College campus this past week to participate in the Southeast FFA Regional Rally. Wayne County's representation did well, having a team or individual place in the top...

Talking tractors

Billy Hardy and Harry Hopkins enjoy the warm afternoon Saturday during the Eastern Carolina Vintage Farm Equipment Club show held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. Hundreds of pieces of old-fashioned farm equipment were on display for public viewing, including...

Peek-a-boo

A pair of baby red foxes poke their heads up from their den at the edge of a wooded section of the Mar-Mac community on Thursday afternoon. The mother fox was sitting nearby, keeping a sharp eye on them....

Mayor not sure he will run again

Mayor Al King has known for some time that there wouldn't be an election this year. What he doesn't know is whether he will be a part of the next one -- whenever it finally takes place. Leading up...

Turning tassels

The printed program was explicit in its directions. One asterisk denoted portions of the commencement ceremonies when the audience was to stand. Two meant the spectators gathered in Mount Olive College's Kornegay Arena were to hold their applause until...

United Way plans for 2011 Day of Caring events

United Way of Wayne County will hold its annual Day of Caring on Friday, May 13. The one-day volunteer event connects local businesses, individuals, church groups and civic clubs with the community through volunteering for a service project at...

Homes sought for French, Spanish students

Host families are are being sought in the Goldsboro area between June 24 and July 23 for five high school students from the area of Bilbao, Spain, and five high school students from France between June 18 and July 10...

Still up in the air after 56 years

He remembers piloting a B-52 laden with nuclear weapons into combat areas in Vietnam and enemy combatants firing at him as he dropped off troops in a C-7 Caribou. He remembers flying in 24-hour shifts from the United States...

Friday, May 6, 2011

Pausing to pray

The Rev. Nora Grantham, left, and Scott Hall bow their heads in prayer during the National Day of Prayer event at Goldsboro High School Thursday. The National Day of Prayer is celebrating its 60th anniversary, but it is the...

Library will move forward with architect choice

An architect who would be responsible for designing Mount Olive's new $3.5 million Steele Memorial Library could be selected by county commissioners when they meet May 17. The Steele Memorial Library Steering Committee recommended last month that the job...

Sec. Gates: Bin Laden's death might be a 'game-changer'

Some asked about how the budget crisis would impact future generations of service members. Others wanted a characterization of the nation's relationship with countries in the Middle East. But the first question Defense Secretary Robert Gates fielded from the hundreds...

County talks budget

A tumultuous state budget that has changed on an almost daily basis has put the county's budget work behind schedule. It will be June 1 before County Manager Lee Smith expects to have the proposal to commissioners who Tuesday morning...

Gates presents airman with Bronze Star today

Arnel Abad was nervous. It had been less than 24 hours since he was told he would be receiving the Bronze Star from Defense Secretary Robert Gates. So with his family by his side, he found something to get him...

916th air crews back home after taking detour in Libya

They said it was just another mission, a job like any other, but when the last of the 150 or so deployed members of the 916th Air Refueling Wing came home Thursday morning, they were coming having helped make history....

Shooting sends man to hospital

A man wanted for skipping bail was apparently shot Thursday night by one of two bail bondsmen at the Wilco-Hess station at the intersection of U.S. 70 West and Claridge Nursery Road. Darryl Williams, 22, of South John Street was...

Council meets in closed session

The City Council did not adjourn its Monday night meeting, but instead decided to recess until Thursday at 3 p.m. at which point it reconvened only to go into closed session for about an hour to discuss a property...

Gates makes stop at SJAFB

Some asked about how the budget crisis would impact future generations of service members. Others wanted a characterization of the nation's relationship with countries in the Middle East. But the first question Defense Secretary Robert Gates fielded from the hundreds...

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Mount Olive College artists help decorate Fremont school's hallway

A team of students from Mount Olive College spent more than 1,000 hours to enhance the aesthetics of Fremont STARS School by creating a massive mural in the hallway of school's second floor. Parents and community members will have...

Heroes' journey: Hallett Mayo, 90, finally shares his battle memories

WASHINGTON -- There was something fitting about the way the raindrops danced off Hallett Mayo's cap -- how the 90-year-old quipped at the gray skies that greeted him at the World War II Memorial. But those veterans who joined him...

Red Cross honors donors at annual Heroes luncheon

Although local "heroes" raised only $75,000 of the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross' $85,000 goal, the 2011 Heroes Campaign didn't really fall short this year. With the April 16 tornadoes, the chapter stopped its annual Heroes Campaign...

Schools not sure about job cuts

Wayne County Public Schools officials said Wednesday that deep cuts in state funding could force the school system to consider cutting jobs. In what Superintendent Dr. Steve Taylor termed the "absolute toughest budget year" he has faced, Taylor said efforts...

Public record

Police seek shooting suspect Everette Tramain McNair, 34, of Wilmington Avenue, was reported by Goldsboro police as being shot while standing in the doorway of Manhattan Deli and Grocery at 901 S. Slocumb St. around 2:40 p.m. Wednesday. McNair was...

Disability Awareness Walk

The Eastern Wayne High School Marching Band leads the Hal Plonk Disability Awareness Walk, which was held Wednesday despite unpredictable showers. People with disabilities paraded the five blocks to bring awareness to the plight of handicapped individuals in Goldsboro...

About the Triangle Flight of Honor

Conceived in 2004 by retired Air Force Capt. Earl Morse, the Flight of Honor takes World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the many memorials erected to honor their sacrifices. The branch that serves Goldsboro and Wayne County,...

Triangle Flight of Honor

Close to a hundred World War II veterans visited the nation's capital to see the monuments, museums and memorials that honor them during the Triangle Flight of Honor....

Applications available for Dancing Stars scholarship

The first scholarship from money raised through Dancing Stars of Wayne County will be presented to a graduating high school senior next month. Applications for the $1,000 scholarship have been sent to area public and private high school counselors,...

Secretary of Defense coming to SJAFB Friday

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is expected to address hundreds of locally stationed airmen Friday at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, 4th Fighter Wing officials confirmed just moments ago. But the soon-to-be-retired official won't simply thank those who have recently...

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Council considers freeze on hiring for some jobs

A discussion on city hiring came up during the closing minutes of the City Council's work session Monday evening as District 5 Councilman Chuck Allen voiced his disapproval of making any hires before next year's budget is finalized. Interim...

Commissioners concerned about potential inmate surge

Two pieces of proposed state legislation that could swell the county's jail population continue to cause consternation for Wayne County officials. A bill that would require the county to house inmates with sentences up to six months on misdemeanor charges...

Two GHS students caught with gun

Two Goldsboro High School students have been charged with possession of a firearm on school grounds. Jonathan Sean Davis, 18, of Poplar Street, took a revolver to the high school last month after bringing the gun from home. He...

Kwast set to receive second star

Another former 4th Fighter Wing commander is poised to receive his second star. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates announced Tuesday that Brig. Gen. Steve Kwast was among those recently nominated by President Barack Obama for appointment to the rank...

Volunteers sought for Alzheimer's Walk

Although the annual Neuse Region Alzheimer's Walk isn't until October, it's not too early to recruit leadership and committee members, organizers say. "Last year, the week before the walk I had people just calling me outright out of the blue,...

Day Circle residents voice concerns

Two months after a 3-year-old was fatally shot at The Grand at Day Point Apartments, the housing complex's crime watch committee held a meeting to address community concerns about the violence in the area. District 4 Councilman the Rev....

Cherry Museum expands

Tanya Rollins' enthusiasm for the Cherry Hospital Museum is obvious as she moves from room to room pointing out recent changes to renovate and expand the converted office building to include additional finds. The special services director is putting...

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

916th crew refuels F-35 Lightning II

Members of the 916th Air Refueling Wing are beginning to realize that being part of the top unit in the Air Force Reserves comes with certain perks. A flight and maintenance crew from the 911th Air Refueling Squadron recently thought...

City Council rejects deal for building

The city's inclination to purchase the building that currently houses the Arts Council of Wayne County at 2406 E. Ash St. will be put on hold after the City Council voted last night to cancel its current contract with...

Riding off into the sunset

Nearly 40 years ago, Howard Scott decided what he wanted to do with his life. Now, with his retirement scheduled for May 1, Wayne County's Cooperative Extension Service director will be leaving that chapter of his life and moving...

Park Avenue to stay open; city manager candidates narrowed

The portion of Park Avenue that runs through Herman Park will not be permanently closed after Goldsboro City Council voted Monday night to adopt the Planning Commission's recommendation to leave the street open. The recommendation suggests other compromises should...

WEMCHS out of running for Obama speech

President Obama will not be the graduation speaker at Wayne Early/Middle College High School after all. The school, one of six national finalists in a White House competition vying for the presidential appearance at commencement, was notified Monday that it...

Rhodes named new chief in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- Maj. Brian Rhodes, 46, who joined the Mount Olive Police Department in 1987 as a patrolman, is now the town's new chief of police. Rhodes had been serving since March as interim chief following the retirement of...

Monday, May 2, 2011

Travel warning issued for Americans abroad

Most Wayne County students traveling abroad over spring break have returned home, Wayne County Schools officials said this morning. U.S. travelers are being warned by the Homeland Security Department that the death of Osama bin Laden could inspire retaliatory...

Wayne County legislators OK with budget

Wayne County legislators are, by and large, pleased with the budget the state House is expected to vote on this week, saying that it does what is necessary to fill a $2.3 billion shortfall while also eliminating two temporary...

Tornado help

A group of men from the Hunter's Creek subdivision collected food for Greene County tornado victims Saturday. The men, with the help of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, were taking the food to a distribution site near Snow Hill...

'Cop on Top'

The Goldsboro Police Department held its "Cop On Top" fundraiser for the Special Olympics over the weekend, with officers spending time atop the Krispy Kreme doughnut shop on Ash Street from 6 a.m. Friday until 10 a.m. Sunday morning....

At home: Bin Laden news good for world

Billy Lane was torn. It was nearly midnight. His wife and 7-year-old son had long since gone to sleep. But news this big only happens "once in a lifetime," he said. "CNN was reporting that the president was gonna say...

Senior Art follies May 10

The city of Goldsboro Park's and Recreation Department will be hosting the Silver Art Follies Annual Talent Showcase at the Paramount Theatre as Goldsboro's gifted group of seniors take the stage. The event is Tuesday, May 10, starting at 6...

Day of Caring to be held May 13

United Way of Wayne County will hold its annual Day of Caring on Friday, May 13. The one-day volunteer event connects local businesses, individuals, church groups and civic clubs with our community through volunteering for a service project at a...

Public record

Vehicle vandalized *Someone did $4,000 in damages to the vehicle of Kevin James Bryne, 24, Lockhaven Drive, by jumping up and down on it. Thefts The Goldsboro Police Department is investigating these thefts: *Glenn Robinson, 54, Elm Street, reported the...

Commissoners to consider hearings on budget, road closure

Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning will consider establishing two public hearings -- one on the county' 2011-12 budget proposal and the second on the state's plans to close a section of Zion Church Road just east of Mount Olive. The...

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Retired Goldsboro attorney honored by heritage society

CHAPEL HILL -- Noted Goldsboro lawyer and former state Sen. Lindsay Warren was named the annual recipient of the North Carolinian Society Award on Friday, joining an elite group that includes William C. Friday, Sen. Sam Ervin, Charles Kuralt,...

People pack Mount Olive for pickle-perfect festival

MOUNT OLIVE -- For at least a few hours Saturday people were able to forget the economic and natural storms that have beset the area, and focus instead on enjoying a pickle, simply having a good time and helping...

Community prepares to bow heads on National Day of Prayer Thursday

The National Day of Prayer, observed on the first Thursday in May for the past 60 years, becomes a communitywide event in Goldsboro this year. Previously, smaller versions locally have been hosted by area churches and on the courthouse...

Stop the Funeral Unity rally to be Friday

The Stop the Funeral Initiative will hold its Unity Revival on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Word Faith Center at 286 Buck Swamp Road. The theme for this year's revival is "United the Community for Change: A Call...

Second lawsuit filed to stop chicken plant in Nash County

A second lawsuit has been filed in Superior Court against Nash County in hopes of stopping construction of a Sanderson Farms poultry processing plant just north of the county's border with Wilson County. Motions from the first lawsuit that...

Tornado victims can seek help to get food

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, to provide temporary food assistance to individuals in 18 counties whose homes were damaged or destroyed, or...

Chamber unveils renovated building

More than 30 civic leaders, residents and business owners were on hand Friday afternoon as the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce officially debuted its new look. Renovations over the past two months have transformed the century-old building into the...

Former employee charged in armed robberies

A former employee of Andy's Burgers, Shakes & Fries restaurant has been charged in two incidents earlier this month of robbing current employees as they attempted to make nightly bank deposits. Jeremy Andrew Jefferson, 21, of Mount Olive, was...

Center Street Jam set to kick off on Thursday

By TY JOHNSON News-Argus Staff Writer If the N.C. Pickle Festival signals the beginning of summer for Wayne County, then downtown Goldsboro's Center Street Jams are the county's biweekly reminders to keep enjoying the summer months through live music,...

Woman, 41, stable after highway crash Friday

A woman's car landed upside down in a wooded area along U.S. 70 East near Walnut Creek Friday after the vehicle left the road and flipped end over end. Tammy Sutton Spencer, 41, the 1999 Buick Regal's only passenger,...