Sunday, April 30, 2017
Competitions enliven Pickle Festival
MOUNT OLIVE -- Tucked into a small corner of the 31st annual North Carolina Pickle Festival was a multitude of competitions, each more fearsome than the last. Competition got underway with a homestyle chili cookoff, with about a half dozen...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Thousands attend annual North Carolina Pickle Festival
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mohammed Fakhri could not sleep Friday night. He could not sleep because he knew that the Saturday morning ride from his home in Goldsboro to the North Carolina Pickle Festival would signal the end of a...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Legislators express concern over base
Efforts to protect the state's military installations from the encroachment of gargantuan wind turbines have won the first "little battle," but the need to win the war remains, House Majority Leader John Bell said Friday. Bell, a member of...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Officer could be found in contempt
Wayne County Sheriff's Office Capt. Steve Mozingo could be found in criminal contempt of court after speaking to a juror in the first-degree murder trial of Kenneth Morgan Stancil III Thursday evening. Superior Court Judge Jay Hockenbury, who is presiding...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Stancil's brother testifies in trial
Kenneth Morgan Stancil III's younger brother Nick Stancil testified in the elder Stancil's first-degree murder trial Friday. Much of the younger Stancil's testimony centered around what his brother was like leading up to when Stancil shot and killed Ron Lane...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Wayne Community College summer registration ends this week
Wayne Community College summer registration will continue through Thursday, May 4. Current and new students can register for college credit courses from 8 a.m. through 4 p.m., Monday, May 1, through Thursday, May 4. Tuition and fees are due May...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Wayne schools recognize volunteer of the year
Wayne County Public Schools announced its volunteer of the year Thursday afternoon, recognized three outstanding Partners in Education and introduced a new award in honor of a veteran educator. Volunteer of the Year Teri Johnson invested more than 200 hours...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
University of Mount Olive FFA gives honorary degrees
MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center recently celebrated its 15th anniversary with a banquet and awards ceremony. During the event, agriculture education and agribusiness students shared information on curriculum advancement, instructional development, internships,...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
New program featured at Wayne Community College
Stephen Knotts is in his glory. Hired at Wayne Community College six years ago, he was named lead instructor of mechatronics engineering two years ago -- a virtually unheard of program that didn't even have a curriculum or textbook. He...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Mayor's Walk to be held Wednesday
The 21st annual Hal Plonk Disability Awareness Walk, sponsored by the Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities, will held Wednesday, starting with registration at St. Paul United Methodist Church at 204 E. Chestnut St. at 9:30 a.m. The five-block...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Habitat Women Build May 6-14
Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne and future Habitat homeowners will work alongside Lowe's volunteers and mostly-female construction crews for Habitat for Humanity's 10th annual National Women Build Week, May 6-14. More than 17,000 women, including Lowe's Heroes volunteers, are expected...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Eastern Wayne Elementary wins regional Battle of the Books
Eastern Wayne Elementary students won the Region 2 Elementary Battle of the Books competition. The team qualified for the Region 2 Competition after winning the WCPS Elementary Battle of the Books Competition earlier this month. The Elementary School Battle of...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Downtown summer fun kicks off this week
A Star Wars costume contest and tunes from Spare Change will kick off the 2017 Center Street Jam concert series Thursday in downtown Goldsboro. Other events are also planned in the downtown area, including the Three Eagles Beer Festival in...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Day of Prayer Thursday at 7 at Family Y
On Thursday, May 4, millions of Americans will gather in observance of the 66th annual National Day of Prayer. Wayne County's National Day of Prayer Task Force invite you to join in this effort to pray for our country...Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Board of Education takes look at budget
The Wayne County Board of Education took a preliminary look at its budget for the 2017-2018 school year at a work session Friday morning, which includes a request for funding to provide core-subject textbooks to every student in Wayne County....Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
LaGrange Garden Spot Festival
Mary Kittrell of Rouse Missionary Baptist Church serves up barbecue and chicken during the LaGrange Garden Spot Festival on Saturday....Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Pikeville Community Day
Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce poses with Iron Man (Rocky Melvin) in the "Raven" helicopter on static display at the Pikeville Community Appreciation Day on Saturday....Published: Apr 30, 2017 12:20 AM Full Story
Saturday, April 29, 2017
Multiple roads close as Neuse River rises
Multiple roads around Wayne County are closed as the level of the Neuse River rises and floods low-lying areas. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the Neuse River had exceeded initial estimates and risen to 24.23 feet at 6:15 p.m....Published: Apr 29, 2017 8:05 PM Full Story
Friday, April 28, 2017
Sheriff's office captain spoke to juror after testifying in murder trial
Wayne County Sheriff's Office Capt. Steve Mozingo could be found in criminal contempt of court after speaking to a juror in the first-degree murder trial of Kenneth Morgan Stancil III Thursday evening. Superior Court Judge Jay Hockenbury, who is presiding...Published: Apr 28, 2017 3:53 PM Full Story
Teen arrested for breaking and entering
The Goldsboro Police Department arrested a 17-year-old early Thursday morning after he allegedly broke into a camper and a shed, according to a press release. Around 4:30 a.m. Thursday, officers with C shift responded to a call of an active...Published: Apr 28, 2017 1:31 PM Full Story
Woman charged for cocaine, marijuana
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a Mount Olive woman Wednesday after finding cocaine and marijuana in her car during a check point stop, according to a sheriff's office press release. According to the release, officers with the Aggressive Criminal...Published: Apr 28, 2017 1:18 PM Full Story
Pikeville to hold event Saturday
PIKEVILLE -- The town of Pikeville's Community Appreciation Day will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. at 100 W. School St. Shearae Robinson, the event's organizer, came up with the idea last summer to bring the...Published: Apr 28, 2017 10:11 AM Full Story
National Week of the Young Child
Caleb Redstone, 4, wearing a Goldsboro Fire Department helmet, receives a temporary tattoo from Charlie Ivey at the National Week of the Young Child event Wednesday sponsored by the Partnership for Children of Wayne County at Cornerstone Commons....Published: Apr 28, 2017 10:11 AM Full Story
Mom returns from deployment, surprises daughter at school
The last time Staff Sgt. Melissa King was deployed, her daughter Laila was too young to remember it. Her second deployment, a six-month stint in southwest Asia, was a different story. Laila, now a kindergarten student at Spring Creek Elementary...Published: Apr 28, 2017 8:21 AM Full Story
Flood waters rise
The boat landing at U.S. 117 South is under water this morning as the Neuse River continues to climb toward its expected crest at 23.7 feet early Monday. It is expected to fall to 21 feet by late Tuesday night....Published: Apr 28, 2017 7:36 AM Full Story
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Jurors see video evidence from WCC the day Stancil killed Ron Lane
Surveillance video of Kenneth Morgan Stancil III's actions before and after he shot and killed print shop technician Ron Lane on Wayne Community College's campus April 13, 2015, was shown Thursday in the fifth day of Stancil's first-degree murder trial....Published: Apr 27, 2017 6:43 PM Full Story
Speeding crack down leads to drug arrest
Pikeville ---- Police arrested a man Friday on marijuana charges, according to a Pikeville Police Department press release. Pikeville officers were conducting a traffic checkpoint on U.S. 117 North near Duck Pond Lane Friday as part of the "Obey the...Published: Apr 27, 2017 12:28 PM Full Story
Two more defendants sentenced in Shanekqua Thompson murder
Two men involved in the Oct. 31, 2014 murder of 21-year-old Shanekqua Adriana Thompson were sentenced today in Wayne County Superior Court. Both men had already taken plea deals in exchange for testimony against Alquan De-shawn Hill, who was convicted...Published: Apr 27, 2017 12:13 PM Full Story
Witness says he saw Stancil kill victim
Witness testimony and evidence presentation began Wednesday in the fourth day of the first-degree murder trial of 22-year-old Kenneth Morgan Stancil III after a jury for the trial was set before lunch. The third and last witness of the...Published: Apr 27, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
River level to keep rising
The Neuse Rivers reached its flood stage of 18 feet early this morning and by 7 a.m. had climbed to 18.22 feet. The river level is expected to continue to rise over the next five days, reaching 23.7 feet by...Published: Apr 27, 2017 8:54 AM Full Story
Ward returned to Wayne County on murder charge
Not long after 12:30 a.m. today, sheriff's deputies escorted Ricky Ward from the back of a police van, up the steps of the North William Street side of the Wayne County courthouse and into the magistrate's office. Ward, who had...Published: Apr 27, 2017 8:43 AM Full Story
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
Captured: Ricky Ward in custody
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that Ricky Terrell Ward, 33, has been taken into custody in Kinston. Maj. Tom Effler said details will be released at a later time. Local and state law enforcement had an apartment complex...Published: Apr 26, 2017 6:45 PM Full Story
ALE charges Maynard's Entertainment permit holder
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Alcohol Law Enforcement charged the permit holder of Maynard's Entertainment today in the wake of a security staff member being assaulted and killed Saturday night at the establishment. Marlton Matthew Price, 45, of Seven Springs, is...Published: Apr 26, 2017 2:14 PM Full Story
Manhunt for Ricky Ward locks in on Kinston apartment complex
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office received a call this morning that possible murder suspect Ricky Terrell Ward might be in Kinston. According to a Kinston Police Department press release, officers were called at 3:30 a.m. to Ward's possible location at...Published: Apr 26, 2017 1:40 PM Full Story
Manhunt shifts to Kinston
The State Bureau of Investigation has taken control of the manhunt for possible murder suspect Ricky Terrell Ward taking place now in Kinston. Law enforcement including the SBI, State Highway Patrol and Wayne and Lenoir county sheriff's offices have a...Published: Apr 26, 2017 11:22 AM Full Story
Arrest made in January shooting
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a man on warrants Tuesday, while deputies were searching for possible armed suspect Ricky Terrell Ward. According to a press release, deputies conducted a search for Ward near Durham Lake Road in Dudley when...Published: Apr 26, 2017 11:06 AM Full Story
Selection of jurors still unsettled
A jury for the first-degree murder trial of Kenneth Morgan Stancil III was not finalized by the end of the trial's third day Tuesday. Stancil is accused of shooting and killing Wayne Community College print shop technician Ron Lane...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Neuse to flood, crest at 23 feet
The Neuse River is expected to reach its 18-foot flood stage later this afternoon and crest at 23.3 feet Sunday. The level could rise even higher, according to the National Weather Service office in Raleigh. The expected crest is...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Proposed funding cuts could cripple Habitat for Humanity
Proposed cuts in President Trump's federal budget could have a crippling effect on Habitat for Humanity's work in helping residents secure affordable housing in Wayne County. Habitat for Humanity International and its affiliates, including Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne,...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Tobacco and wheat crops may be damaged by heavy rains
Some of Wayne County's tobacco and wheat crops could be damaged or lost because of this week's heavy rains. Adding to the cost associated with any losses, some farmers may have the additional expense of reapplying fertilizer. "It was...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Two retail thefts in less than two hours
In less than two hours, two men allegedly removed anti-theft devices from electronics at Target in separate theft attempts Monday afternoon. Francisco Lee Mendez, 21, of Stantonsburg, removed an anti-theft device from wireless headphones worth $149 at 2:46 p.m., according...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Gertrude Weil biographer speaks
Author Leonard Rogoff speaks in the Gertrude Weil auditorium at the Wayne County Public Library on Tuesday evening. Rogoff's book "Gertrude Weil: Jewish Progressive in the New South," paints a vivid picture of the indomitable Miss Weil, who was one...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Searching for the right words
Jeff Chapin is at a loss for words. He loves to talk. His bubbly personality has always spilled out through his smile and animated expressions. Those are still there, but the aftermath of two strokes since the school year began...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Police say man poured bleach on ex-girlfriend
A man allegedly poured bleach on his former girlfriend this morning, according to a Goldsboro police report. The man, who is the father of the woman's child, pushed and shoved the woman after the two began arguing in the 700...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Board votes to let bottle shop expand
Well Travelled Beer, a craft beer bottle shop in downtown Goldsboro, is planned to expand after operating less than a year in the city. John Hodge, co-owner of the 201 S. Center St. business, is seeking a conditional-use permit...Published: Apr 26, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Visitation restrictions lifted at Wayne UNC Health Care
Effective Tuesday, visitation restrictions due to flu have been discontinued at Wayne UNC Health Care. Flu cases have decreased significantly throughout the and in Wayne County during the last two weeks, hospital officials said. The hospital's infection control team will...Published: Apr 26, 2017 7:28 AM Full Story
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Laptops, other items stolen during elementary school break-in
Laptops were stolen from Spring Creek Elementary over spring break, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. The school's art teacher discovered modular classrooms behind the school, located at 1050 St. John Church Road, had been broken into when...Published: Apr 25, 2017 3:23 PM Full Story
Camp Kilowatt returns to WCC
Camp Kilowatt is returning this summer to Wayne Community College, marking its ninth year. The popular energy camp, for middle and high school students, will explore STEM -- science, technology, engineering and math -- areas including electronics, robotics and rapid...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
New cameras aid police in solving crime
High atop power poles over areas the city has designated as having high concentrations of crime, newly-obtained panoramic cameras have for the past month or so been conducting around the clock surveillance. The technology -- in place about two months...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Jury selection continues in trial
Jury selection resumed Monday in the first-degree murder trial of 22-year-old Kenneth Morgan Stancil III. Stancil is accused of shooting and killing Wayne Community College print shop technician Ron Lane on April 13, 2015, on the school's campus. He...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Goldsboro youth named top area seller of Girl Scout cookies with 2,152 boxes
North Carolina Coastal Pines is pleased to announce that Mary Williams of Goldsboro is the area top seller for the 2017 Girl Scout Cookie Program. Williams sold 2,152 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies in the annual cookie program that ended...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
River expected to crest at 22.1 feet, some streets flood
The Neuse River is forecast to reach its flood stage of 18 feet shortly after midnight before cresting at 22.1 feet around 6 a.m. Sunday, according to data released this morning by the National Weather Service. That level is...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Community survey starts this week
Goldsboro Family YMCA invites residents to weigh in on what the most pressing issues are in Wayne County. The Online Community Needs Assessment Survey starts this week and runs through May 22. It features multiple choice and opinion questions related...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Code Red still active in Mar-Mac as search continues for armed suspect
The Mar-Mac community is under a Code Red alert from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office as a manhunt for a man who ran from a traffic stop in March got underway Monday. Maj. Tom Effler said the man is also...Published: Apr 25, 2017 9:20 AM Full Story
Man charged for breaking into a home and throwing beer on a woman
A man is facing felony charges after kicking in the door to a woman's apartment Monday morning and throwing beer on her, according to police reports. Torrance Lee Johnson, 44, of 810 E. Walnut St., is charged with felony breaking...Published: Apr 25, 2017 7:00 AM Full Story
Monday, April 24, 2017
Manhunt resumes for armed man, now possible murder suspect
Update ---- 6:45 p.m. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office now says Ricky Terrell Ward, 33, is a "possible" murder suspect in relation to Sunday night's shooting death of David Demarlo Thompson, 35. Thompson was shot and killed in the back...Published: Apr 24, 2017 5:48 PM Full Story
County under flash flood watch
Wayne County and most of central North Carolina is under a flood watch with flash flooding possible today through early Tuesday morning. Periods of heavy rain are expected today and tonight with rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches expected...Published: Apr 24, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Shortage of homes, more children causes foster care program crisis
The foster care crisis around the state is being felt in Wayne County, with growing numbers of children being put into the system and a shortage of homes in which to place them, said Debbie Jones, director of Wayne County...Published: Apr 24, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Report: Seymour Johnson Air Force Base a boon for economy
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base helped to increase employment for Goldsboro and Wayne County last year with nearly 800 civilians finding jobs with the base. According to the base's 2016 economic impact report, Seymour Johnson spent $705 million on local...Published: Apr 24, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Kindergarten registration begins Tuesday
Kindergarten registration for Wayne County Public Schools will be Tuesday at 13 elementary schools. It will take place between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at most of the schools, with the exception of Edgewood Community Developmental School and North Drive...Published: Apr 24, 2017 9:49 AM Full Story
Sheriff's Office investigates two homicides over weekend
DUDLEY -- The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is investigating a murder that happened Sunday night on Arrowhead Road. David Demarlo Thompson, 35, of 109 Arrowhead Road, was found in his backyard suffering from several gunshot wounds around 9:30 p.m. when...Published: Apr 24, 2017 6:29 AM Full Story
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Bouncer killed in bar fight, two charged
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Two Wayne County men are charged with murder after allegedly beating a security staff member to death outside Maynard's Night Club Saturday night, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Jerry Wayne Anthony...Published: Apr 23, 2017 11:09 AM Full Story
Saturday, April 22, 2017
Three assistants become finalists
Three instructional assistants with Wayne County Public Schools have been selected as finalists in the running for the distinction of being 2017 Instructional Assistant of the Year. The district program, modeled after the Teacher of the Year, highlights the...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
'Repair cafe' to be held at Northview Church
Northview Baptist Church will hold a "repair cafe" on Saturday, June 3 at the church at 600 Patetown Road. What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Pickle Festival begins Friday
MOUNT OLIVE -- Hike the Pickle Trail and discover pickle-flavored popcorn, snow cones and even free pickles. Those with a real appetite for pickles can test themselves to see if they can down a bowl of kosher dill pickles in...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Brookdale holds community event featuring Phil Ford
Adam Combs slid a familiar picture on a table to former University of North Carolina Tar Heels point guard Phil Ford. Ford stared closely and was reminded of what he looked like 21 years ago. "I'm seeing me more as...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Through the camera lens
Samer Kasbari can be at the edge of the Grand Canyon, in the mountains overlooking a lake or in a forest surrounded by foliage and he might stand there for a long time waiting to take the perfect photograph. "So...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Guardian ad Litem honors volunteers
Guardian ad Litem volunteers serving hundreds of children in Wayne, Lenoir and Greene counties were recognized Friday for their service to the community. The District 8 Guardian ad Litem program, which serves nearly 300 children in the three-county area,...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Quilt to be raffled to raise money for Cures for Colors
Marion Atkins Adair helps raise money for Southeastern Cancer Care's Cures for the Colors in an unusual way -- by making a quilt each year to be raffled off. The quilt is on display at Southeastern Medical Oncology Center....Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Arts Council to host May events
The Arts Council of Wayne County will have three major events in May. The first will be a Cinco de Mayo party May 5 from 5 to 8 during its regular First Friday event. There will be Cinco de Mayo-themed...Published: Apr 22, 2017 11:02 PM Full Story
Driver crosses center line, vehicle flips
A man was injured when he crossed the center line and ran into a ditch on Genoa Road near the intersection of Outlaw Road Friday night.William Earl King was driving Pontiac Vibe when it hit a ditch and then flipped...Published: Apr 22, 2017 7:46 PM Full Story
Man charged with larceny after selling stolen items to pawn shop
A man allegedly stole items from a Mount Olive couple's home one week ago and sold the items to a local pawn shop and a jewelry store. According to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office press release, Joseph Michael Phillips, 26,...Published: Apr 22, 2017 3:27 PM Full Story
Wayne Community College's Adult High School Program honors three
Wayne Community College's Adult High School Program has honored three students for outstanding academic achievement. Bailey Jewel Evers, Jason Edward Benner, and Nakia Shadai Tune made the Scholars List for the Spring 1 2017 session. To receive this honor, students...Published: Apr 22, 2017 1:54 PM Full Story
Friday, April 21, 2017
Jury selection starts, stops in Stancil first-degree murder trial
Jury selection began today in the first-degree murder trial of 22-year-old Kenneth Morgan Stancil III. Stancil is accused of shooting and killing Wayne Community College print shop technician Ron Lane on April 13, 2015, on the school's campus. He is...Published: Apr 21, 2017 6:00 PM Full Story
Jury convicts Alquan Hill in 2014 murder of mother of three
Update ---- 2:42 p.m. Alquan De-Shawn Hill will serve life in prison without parole after a jury convicted him of first-degree murder in Wayne County Superior Court today. Hill was also convicted of assault with a deadly weapon with intent...Published: Apr 21, 2017 2:11 PM Full Story
16-year-old charged in shooting of a family member
Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies called to a Dudley home Thursday night said they found a man shot in the leg by a family member. According to the report, deputies saw "several" neighbors outside waiving their arms for deputies to...Published: Apr 21, 2017 9:43 AM Full Story
Relay for Life survivors banquet
Jo Sutton was one of the oldest cancer survivors in the audience at Thursday night's Relay for Life Survivors Banquet at First Pentecostal Holiness Church. "I had lung cancer in 2008," the 85-year-old said. Over the years since, she...Published: Apr 21, 2017 9:43 AM Full Story
Make A Difference
Gov. Roy Cooper has named Mackenzie Hinson of the Grantham community as the state's first "spokeskid" for his Youth Make a Difference Days initiative. Cooper was in Goldsboro Thursday afternoon for a roundtable discussion held in the county's emergency...Published: Apr 21, 2017 9:43 AM Full Story
Police: Woman returns to store she twice shoplifted from, is charged
A woman who allegedly stole headphones at U.S. Cellular earlier this week was arrested at the store Thursday. Crystal Smith Ezzell, 30, of 105 Dee Dee Place, entered the store April 11, and April 17, with an infant child and...Published: Apr 21, 2017 9:00 AM Full Story
Cooper: Lack of affordable housing hindered hurricane recovery
A lack of affordable housing in Wayne County and across eastern North Carolina has hindered efforts to relocate people who lost their homes because of Hurricane Matthew, Gov. Roy Cooper said. The storm put a spotlight on things that leaders...Published: Apr 21, 2017 7:59 AM Full Story
Murder case to go to jury today
Jury deliberation in the murder trial of Alquan De-shawn Hill begins today after both sides presented closing arguments Thursday afternoon. The trial has gone on since April 10. Hill is accused of taking part in the killing of a 21-year-old...Published: Apr 21, 2017 6:37 AM Full Story
Thursday, April 20, 2017
Governor stops in Goldsboro to talk recovery
Gov. Roy Cooper stopped by Wayne County Thursday afternoon to hear concerns from local leaders about their unmet needs and their ideas on the state's efforts to help communities recover from the devastation of Hurricane Matthew in October. Cooper and...Published: Apr 20, 2017 3:43 PM Full Story
Traffic stop results in drug arrest
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office drug unit found heroin in a Goldsboro woman's vehicle after she consented to a search during a traffic stop Wednesday, according to a press release. Amanda Gail Freeman, 23, of 103 E. Parks Road, was...Published: Apr 20, 2017 3:21 PM Full Story
Hill testifies in own defense
Both the prosecution and defense rested Wednesday in the ongoing first-degree murder trial of Alquan De-shawn Hill. Hill took the stand in his own defense Wednesday. He is accused of taking part in the killing of a 21-year-old mother...Published: Apr 20, 2017 10:13 AM Full Story
County bickers over Gov. Aycock birthplace
The legacy of Gov. Charles B. Aycock continues to be a divisive one and Tuesday morning had Wayne County commissioners bickering over a resolution asking the state to continue funding for the Charles B. Aycock Birthplace near Fremont. Aycock,...Published: Apr 20, 2017 10:13 AM Full Story
W.A. Foster Center gives indoor soccer league sure footing
The W.A. Foster Recreation Center has added a new indoor soccer league that is already drawing close to 85 players. The soccer league started April 12 and continues every Wednesday night, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and so...Published: Apr 20, 2017 10:13 AM Full Story
Wayne UNC Health Care names 2017 honoree
Elnora Newsome has become quite adept at ducking photo opportunities, Donna Archer told the crowd at this year's volunteer recognition event for Wayne UNC Health Care. She couldn't avoid having her picture taken, though, after being named the hospital's 2017...Published: Apr 20, 2017 10:13 AM Full Story
Community policing now part of career advancement
Officers with the Goldsboro Police Department cleaned up yards and delivered Meals on Wheels Monday as part of the department's first-ever community policing class. The ideas to clean up yards around the community and deliver Meals on Wheels came from...Published: Apr 20, 2017 6:04 AM Full Story
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
County to receive $300,000 for EMS station in Seven Springs
Wayne County will receive $300,000 to build a new EMS station in the Seven Springs community to replace the one flooded by Hurricane Matthew in October. No timetable has been announced for the new facility, but the county is negotiating...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Testimony continues in murder trial
Testimony given Tuesday in the ongoing first-degree murder trial of Alquan Hill by two men who were there the night 21-year-old Shanekqua Adriana Thompson was gunned down revealed Hill bragged about the shooting. Thompson died after eight men -- identified...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Board passes bond sales
Wayne County is expected to close by the end of the month on a $42 million bond issue for schools, the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention Center and several other projects. Only two people spoke during a Tuesday morning public...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Program offers resources, not handouts
The 4-Day Movement, launched in 2013 to connect residents in need with resources "four days at a time," is expanding. Founder D.J. Coles has spent the past four years building up the non-profit as a go-to organization for those who...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
City government goes social
The Orlando Police Department tapped into social media as the fastest way to connect with people following the Pulse nightclub mass shooting last year. And before news ever broke about the Lake Erie algae bloom that contaminated public water supplies...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Pickle eating contest set for festival
MOUNT OLIVE -- So just how many pickles can you eat in one sitting? The 31 annual North Carolina Pickle Festival will offer you chance to answer that questions at its first-ever pickle-eating contest on Saturday, April 29. The contest...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Teacher of the Year narrowed to three
Wayne County Public Schools has announced three finalists for the district's 2017-2018 Teacher of the Year. The local effort is part of the national Teacher of the Year program that has been around for more than 50 years. Earlier, 32...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Fremont resident honored for act of kindness
FREMONT -- The Fremont Board of Aldermen recognized a town resident for an act of kindness at its meeting Tuesday night, and also addressed enforcement of their new garbage fine ordnance. Fremont Police Chief Paul Moats presented Fremont resident Frances...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
The case of the missing rifle: $30,000 antique rifle reported stolen
A $30,000 antique rifle went missing from the Wayne County Museum last month, according to a Goldsboro police report. And while no one is pointing fingers, neither does anyone seem able to say exactly where the artifact is or from...Published: Apr 19, 2017 9:26 AM Full Story
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Wayne County Public Schools recognize top student artists
Wayne County Public Schools recently recognized student artists during the 2016-17 Visual Arts Awards ceremony held at Goldsboro High School. Categories and their respective recipients include the following: Superintendent's Choice Art * Grades K-2 Division: Omar Ortiz of Brogden...Published: Apr 18, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Public health essay contest open to teen contestants
Wayne County high school students are invited to participate in the annual Charles T. Gibson Teen Public Health Leadership essay contest. Students in grades 9-12, representing public, private and homeschools are eligible to participate in the contest, which offers...Published: Apr 18, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Woman who was reported missing is found
Police in Brooklyn, New York verified this morning that a woman reported missing from Goldsboro April 7 has been found safe and secure. According to a Goldsboro Police Department press release issued early this morning, Lakeyisha Vonette Jones, 38,...Published: Apr 18, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Mechatronics Day at WCC April 27
One of the newest programs at Wayne Community College will be showcased during Mechatronics Day on Thursday, April 27. Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field of science that includes mechanical engineering, electronics, systems engineering and control engineering. At WCC, students...Published: Apr 18, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
City to operate public pools, lifeguard positions available
The city of Goldsboro plans to start offering lifeguard jobs for $10 an hour in an effort to ramp up staffing levels to open the city's two public pools by Memorial Day. The city, which plans to advertise the...Published: Apr 18, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Seven Springs seeks options to stay afloat
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Floodwaters from the Neuse River have nearly washed away this historic riverside village twice in just the past 17 years. Now residents here in the county's oldest town say that the river that unleashed historic flooding following...Published: Apr 18, 2017 8:36 AM Full Story
Seven Springs seeks options to stay afloat
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Floodwaters from the Neuse River have nearly washed away this historic riverside village twice in just the past 17 years. Now residents here in the county's oldest town say that the river that unleashed historic flooding following...Published: Apr 18, 2017 8:36 AM Full Story
Murder trial moves into second week
A hearing on whether certain video clips would be allowed as evidence in the first-degree murder trial of Alquan Hill consumed most of the day Monday. As the trial entered its fifth day, the prosecution and defense made arguments about...Published: Apr 18, 2017 7:37 AM Full Story
Monday, April 17, 2017
Dog survives house fire in Mount Olive
A Mount Olive man returned from work to find his house on fire Thursday. It took firefighters from six departments to contain the blaze. Just before 2 p.m., the Mount Olive Fire Department responded to a house fire at 111...Published: Apr 17, 2017 5:48 PM Full Story
Teen charged with drug, gun possession
A man is facing felony charges after authorities found a gun and marijuana in his car during a traffic stop Friday, according to a press release. Brian Diontae Darden, 17, of 803 Olivia Lane, is charged with felony possession with...Published: Apr 17, 2017 1:30 PM Full Story
Home invasion, shooting victim charged with selling meth
A man who was shot in the leg during a home invasion is now facing felony drug charges after deputies searched his home and found 22 grams of what they believe to be methamphetamine, according to a press release. Christopher...Published: Apr 17, 2017 1:19 PM Full Story
Sweet and seasonal
Brittany Turnage purchases freshly picked strawberries from produce vendor Andy Cashwell Friday afternoon at Cottle Farms southwest of Goldsboro. State agriculture officials say recent freezes did not hurt the crop and that the season will hit high gear this week...Published: Apr 17, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Board to hold bond hearing Tuesday
The public will have the opportunity Tuesday to comment on a proposal by Wayne County commissioners to borrow $42 million for schools and other projects. A public hearing on the plan to sell bonds to finance the projects will...Published: Apr 17, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Relay makes push for funds
Support for Relay for Life this year is more important than ever, says its local director, reacting to threats that the federal government is proposing cutting nearly $1 billion out of cancer research funding. The federal government is the...Published: Apr 17, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Biography of Gertrude Weil released this month
A biography of Gertrude Weil is being released this month and Wayne County residents will have a chance to hear the author speak at the Wayne County Public Library on Tuesday, April 25, at 7 p.m.. A book signing will...Published: Apr 17, 2017 8:14 AM Full Story
WCC to hold three commencement ceremonies to accomodate growing number of graduates
Wayne Community College will hold three commencement ceremonies this spring, splitting off its college credit event to accommodate the growing number of graduates. For years the institution traditionally held ceremonies outside, with seating provided in the adjacent bleachers and the...Published: Apr 17, 2017 7:13 AM Full Story
Saturday, April 15, 2017
Easter extravaganza
The Bethel Church Easter bunny greets children during the Easter extravaganza at Herman Park on Saturday....Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Wayne schools excel in technical skills competition
This is competition season for teachers and students in the career and technical programs of Wayne County Public Schools. Two schools have recently earned state recognitions and are gearing up for the national events, said Beverly Boltinhouse, acting director of...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Expenses exceed revenue for municipal golf course
The Goldsboro Municipal Golf Course was initially envisioned to be a money maker for the city, but it has failed to deliver since the city started managing the facility in 1999. During the past 18 years, the course has not...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Lobster/Shrimp Fest planned
Wayne County, get your mouths ready for some authentic Maine lobster and shrimp because the 13th annual Lobster/Shrimp Fest is coming. The fundraiser for the Partnership for Children of Wayne County will be held May 5. Tickets are $25 and...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Internet parlor hearing Monday
The Goldsboro City Council will hold a public hearing Monday for proposed ordinance changes for internet sweepstake businesses in the city. The hearing will be held during the council's regular meeting at 7 p.m. in City Hall at 214 N....Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
LaGrange man shot in leg during home invasion
A LaGrange man was shot in the leg while another man was pistol-whipped during a home invasion Wednesday night, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. According to a report, two people were at the residence in the 400 block...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Drastic cuts if school mandate sticks
General Assembly-mandated school class size reductions would, for Wayne County Public Schools, mean cutting around 70 positions in art, music, physical education and other areas, school officials said during a Wayne County Board of Education work session Thursday. The changes,...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Goldsboro Family Y drops city pools
The yearly struggle to hire enough lifeguards and other financial challenges led to a Goldsboro Family YMCA decision to no longer manage and operate the city's two public swimming pools. The YMCA, which has operated the pools for nearly 16...Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Dog walk for life
Tink, a rescued female terrier-mix puppy, was in attendance during the Relay for Life dog walk Saturday at Waynesborough Park. Relay for Life will be held May 19 at the Wayne County Fairgrounds....Published: Apr 15, 2017 11:35 PM Full Story
Police: Woman hit in the head with shovel at Serena Inn
Revenge appears to have been the motive behind an assault in which a woman was hit in the head with a shovel. Goldsboro police were called to a welfare check around 10 p.m. Friday in room 157 at the Serena...Published: Apr 15, 2017 5:04 PM Full Story
Hitting the road: Gas prices rise as weather warms
Gasoline prices are at their highest mark in 19 months and prices will continue to rise based on consumer demand. The price of gasoline started to increase in late March and will continue as gas stations make the transition over...Published: Apr 15, 2017 1:27 PM Full Story
Friday, April 14, 2017
Man charged with heroin trafficking, gun possession
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office drug unit investigated a Dudley man Wednesday and found 13 grams of heroin valued at $13,000 at his home. According to a press release, the sheriff's office along with the Goldsboro Police Department drug unit...Published: Apr 14, 2017 10:59 AM Full Story
Airport to get new hangar
MOUNT OLIVE -- The Mount Olive Town Board has awarded a $1,305,650 contract to Daniels and Daniels Construction Co. of Goldsboro for a 10,000-square-foot hangar at the town's airport. The 100-foot-by-100-foot building will be constructed on property on the...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Two men arrested for cocaine-related offenses
Wayne County Sheriff's Office found cocaine on two men during separate arrests Wednesday. According to a press release, the Wayne County Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team along with SWAT Team members executed a search warrant at the home of Samuel Gales...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Police officers use Taser to stop pit bull
Police officers used a Taser to stop a pit bull dog after it charged at them Wednesday afternoon. According to a Goldsboro Police report, the owner allowed the dog to run loose in the 200 block of Neil Street...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Lawmen on lookout for speeders
The major cause of injuries and fatalities on North Carolina roads is still blamed on speeding. And from today until Sunday at 1 a.m., law enforcement will conduct North Carolina Department of Transportation's Obey the Sign or Pay the...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Bark for Life to be held Saturday
Bark for Life, a new fundraiser for Relay for Life, will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Old Waynesborough Park on U.S. 117 Bypass. The family event is free and open the public, says organizer Nancy...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
New food truck opens to fight food insecurities
When it comes to helping the community, dedication and perseverance pay off. For Danny King, executive director of Wayne County nonprofit A Lot of Direction, Love and Affection, nearly a year of hard work came to fruition Thursday afternoon, as...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Mother of victim testifies in murder trial
Renee Thompson took the stand in Wayne County Superior Court Thursday to identify for jurors the body of her slain daughter. She then shared details about the last time she saw Shanekqua Adriana Thompson alive before finding out she had...Published: Apr 14, 2017 9:19 AM Full Story
Jack Kannan named interim executive director of Wayne Memorial Hospital Foundation
Jack Kannan has been named interim executive director of the new Wayne Memorial Hospital Foundation that will serve as the fundraising arm of the hospital. His hiring was announced by Wayne Health Corp. board member Susan McCall during the board's...Published: Apr 14, 2017 7:27 AM Full Story
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Man shot during home invasion
A La Grange man was shot in the leg and another man was pistol-whipped during a home invasion Wednesday night, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. According to a report, two people were at the residence in the 400 block...Published: Apr 13, 2017 4:37 PM Full Story
Inmate, wife charged after botched escape attempt
An ill-fated escape attempt landed a Pikeville couple in jail Thursday morning after officials said the wife tried to free her husband from an inmate work detail. The couple were apprehended separately within about an hour of the attempted...Published: Apr 13, 2017 4:02 PM Full Story
Captured: Inmate who walked away from roadside detail apprehended
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office captured an escaped inmate this morning it says walked away from a roadside detail in the Dudley area. Joseph Doyle Perkins was captured near the intersection of Swinson Drive and Club Knolls Road in...Published: Apr 13, 2017 10:41 AM Full Story
Youth employment program is now accepting applications
Teenagers interested in working a summer job will get a boost with a newly created youth employment program. Applications for the Summer Youth Employment Initiative are being accepted on the city of Goldsboro's website, and at least 50 jobs will...Published: Apr 13, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Garden Festival and Plant Sale to benefit Extension Service
Linda McLendon of Dudley enjoys watching the seeds she plants sprout. As a Wayne County Extension Service Master Gardener volunteer since 1999, Mrs. McLendon also enjoys knowing that people who purchase plants grown by the volunteers are getting a quality...Published: Apr 13, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Witnesses, video detail shooting
Witnesses in the first-degree murder trial of Alquan Hill recounted previously undisclosed details of the October 2014 killing of Shanekqua Adriana Thompson as testimony got underway Wednesday in Wayne County Superior Court. Thompson, the 21-year-old mother of three, died while...Published: Apr 13, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Sheriff's Office searching for escaped inmate
Update ---- At 10:08 a.m. officials released a correction to the escaped inmate's name. He is Joseph Doyle Perkins. Perkins was not the driver of the gold Ford Fusion with a cracked windshield that he initially took off in. Deputies...Published: Apr 13, 2017 9:38 AM Full Story
Officers shock pit bull they say charged at them
Police officers used a Taser to stop a female pit bulldog after it charged at them Wednesday afternoon. According to a Goldsboro Police report, the owner allowed the dog to run loose in the 200 block of Neil Street shortly...Published: Apr 13, 2017 8:08 AM Full Story
Downtown Goldsboro Merchants Association creates a new shopping experience
The Downtown Goldsboro Merchants Association has created a new shopping experience just in time for Mother's Day. Sip, Shop and Stroll will take place in downtown Goldsboro tonight, from 6 to 8 p.m. Participating merchants plan to offer wine samples...Published: Apr 13, 2017 7:03 AM Full Story
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Citizen's 911 call leads to arrest in motor vehicle break-in
People at a duplex apartment watched a man allegedly attempt to break into several cars early this morning. According to a Goldsboro Police report, Andrew Casey Hanner, 29, of 112 Woodside Circle, checked doors of six cars while witnesses observed...Published: Apr 12, 2017 12:58 PM Full Story
Police talk woman armed with hatchet down from atop a parked car
A woman allegedly swung a hatchet at another woman and chased her as police officers arrived on scene to a call of a fight in progress early this morning. According to a Goldsboro Police report, Sarah Michael Benton, 17, of...Published: Apr 12, 2017 11:27 AM Full Story
Rep. Jimmy Dixon decries previous solar energy policies
RALEIGH -- There is a place for solar power and for renewable energy in North Carolina. However, earlier legislation dealing with such facilities went too far and now the state is reaping "a very disastrous harvest," of what was...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Hospital update project kicks off
A groundbreaking ceremony was held Tuesday afternoon at Wayne Memorial Hospital for a $48 million project to update and replace the operating rooms that were originally built in the 1970s. Another $7 million will go to replace air handler...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
All-County Choral Festival
High school students from Wayne County perform during the 2017 All-County Choral Festival Tuesday evening at Goldsboro High School....Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Wayne Community College, N.C. A&T State University sign agreement
Wayne Community College has signed an agreement with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University giving transfer students a new bachelor's degree opportunity in agriculture, officials said. The transfer articulation agreement is for "2+2" programs between the institutions. WCC...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
UMO students attend Phi Beta Lambda leadership conference
Three University of Mount Olive students recently attended the 75th Annual North Carolina Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference (NCPBL SLC) in Charlotte. The students were accompanied by Sonya O'Brien and Dr. Norman Crumpacker, UMO-PBL Chapter co-advisers and members of...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Red Cross marks 100 years
The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. It will include a 100-pint blood drive May 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church. "We picked St....Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
National Day of Prayer to be held May 4 at Y
People of all religious denominations will come together next month to pray for this community, the state and the nation. The annual National Day of Prayer will take place May 4 at 7 p.m. at the Family Y. It started...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Crime of the week
On Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, at approximately 1:10 a.m., officers of the Goldsboro Police Department responded to a shots fired call in the 100 block of Astor Court. Once officers arrived on scene they found the victim, Shai Valentine, a...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Country Skillet closes
The Country Skillet, a Southern style restaurant known for its homecooked meals, is closed but may reopen under new management. Doyle Barnes, business owner, leased the property on Eastgate Drive near the Berkeley Mall to Michael Herring, a local...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
City will not pay to repair damage to home
A Goldsboro homeowner who sustained nearly $20,000 in property damage from a backed-up city sewer line has learned that the city will not pay for the repairs. Mary O'Tuel, owner of the two-story Brookwood Lane home, and her daughter, Maria,...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Aycock math teacher honored
Becky Hare, math teacher at Charles B. Aycock High School, has been named Wayne County Public Schools' Outstanding Secondary Mathematics Teacher of the Year. She was recognized at the annual N.C. Council of Teachers of Mathematics Conference held in Greensboro....Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Robotics team heads to Houston
Wally the robot and 25 high school students arrived in Houston Wednesday, April 19, to compete in a national robotics tournament. Wayne County students involved in the 4-H robotics program built the 120-pound robot in six weeks to enter him...Published: Apr 12, 2017 10:03 AM Full Story
Opening arguments in murder trial to begin today
Day two of Alquan Hill's first-degree murder trial wrapped up shortly after the jury for the case was seated Tuesday. Court adjourned for the day when an alternate juror -- one of four -- did not return to the courtroom...Published: Apr 12, 2017 8:40 AM Full Story
Authorities seek information in 2016 shooting death
On Friday, Oct. 28, 2016, at approximately 1:10 a.m., officers of the Goldsboro Police Department responded to a shots fired call in the 100 block of Astor Court. Once officers arrived on scene they found the victim, Shai Valentine, a...Published: Apr 12, 2017 7:08 AM Full Story
Tuesday, April 11, 2017
City: Youths interested in summer jobs should apply online
Teenagers interested in working a summer job will get a boost with a newly created youth employment program. Applications for the Summer Youth Employment Initiative are being accepted on the city of Goldsboro's website, and at least 50 jobs will...Published: Apr 11, 2017 12:57 PM Full Story
Fire destroys mobile home, two displaced
Two men watched their mobile home burn down Tuesday morning off of Dallas Road. Tyshone Turner, 23, and Tye Johnson, 20, saw the fire start at their home, located at 105 Curlew St., just after 10 a.m. Turner said he...Published: Apr 11, 2017 12:27 PM Full Story
Students pepper sprayed, officer assaulted
Southern Wayne High School's resource officer pepper-sprayed two students fighting on a school bus and arrested another student who cussed at him and assaulted him Thursday after he broke up the fight, according to Wayne County Sheriff's Office reports....Published: Apr 11, 2017 10:12 AM Full Story
Larry Bell won't run for re-election
At 77 years old and after nine terms in the state House of Representatives, Rep. Larry Bell is ready to call it a career. Bell announced at the Wayne County Democratic Party Convention Saturday that he will not seek...Published: Apr 11, 2017 10:12 AM Full Story
Walnut Creek Country Club has good year
Officials with the Walnut Creek Country Club said the facility closed out another successful year in 2016. With almost 500 members, the club continues to exceed its budget expectations and expand programs in tennis, pool, golf, and other member services....Published: Apr 11, 2017 10:12 AM Full Story
Local legislator focuses on agriculture, farmers
RALEIGH -- Farmers are overburdened by regulations and besieged by the "liberal media" and others who do not understand agriculture's importance to the county's growth and survival, Rep. Jimmy Dixon said. Government and regulations are among the biggest challenges...Published: Apr 11, 2017 10:12 AM Full Story
Murder trial jury selection continues
Jury selection will continue today in the first-degree murder trial of Alquan Hill, who is accused of taking part in the Oct. 31, 2014, murder of then-21-year-old Shanekqua Adriana Thompson. Hill is allegedly part of a gang known as the...Published: Apr 11, 2017 8:05 AM Full Story
Monday, April 10, 2017
Police: Shots fired into car as two men were parked in Berkeley Mall parking lot
Someone shot into a car in the Berkeley Mall parking lot Sunday night, but nobody was injured, according to police reports. The report said 38-year-old Tristen Deshay Melvin and 19-year-old Tyonne Daquez McKinnon were sitting in 2011 Chevrolet Impala when...Published: Apr 10, 2017 3:45 PM Full Story
Hoops with Troops basketball tournament brings the base, community and local businesses together
The second annual Hoops with Troops basketball tournament took place at Goldsboro High School this weekend, with 24 teams competing across three age brackets. The tournament began last year, when Dillard Academy Public Charter School after-school program employee Uhuru Ulyesse...Published: Apr 10, 2017 1:53 PM Full Story
Child abuse, drug charges follow traffic stop
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop Friday which led to man's arrest for possession of cocaine and child abuse. According to a press release, Shelvon Tracy Rich, 43, of 112 Marlette Drive, was driving on N.C. 111...Published: Apr 10, 2017 1:13 PM Full Story
Shavin' for the Army
They came. They saw. They shaved. A happy group of participants and onlookers gathered at the Flying Shamrock pub Saturday afternoon to watch as volunteers had their heads, mustaches and beards shaved off in support of Riley's Army, an...Published: Apr 10, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Hoops with troops
The team from Harvey's Moving Company huddles together before their game during the first round of the second annual Hoops with Troops fundraiser for Dillard Academy at Goldsboro High School Saturday....Published: Apr 10, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Council delays review of fees
The Goldsboro City Council held off on reviewing a proposed stormwater fee presentation but approved several business items during its recent meeting. Rick Fletcher, Goldsboro public works director, was prepared to present ideas from a newly formed stormwater committee,...Published: Apr 10, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Choral Festival slated for Tuesday
Nearly 300 students representing 28 schools from Wayne County Public Schools will showcase their talents Tuesday night during the 2017 All County Choral Festival at 6:30 p.m. at Goldsboro High School. The event is free to the public. "This...Published: Apr 10, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
County ABC sales are up
Sales at the Walnut Creek ABC store have taken a hit since the new U.S. 70 Bypass opened, especially on Friday afternoons. But even with that drop, ABC sales in the county are up by 4 percent during the...Published: Apr 10, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Pipeline access, no new facility at H.F. Lee Plant
Duke Energy has no plans to build any permanent facilities in the area of the H.F. Lee Plant active ash basin that the company is seeking to have removed from the floodway map of the Neuse River's 100-year flood plain,...Published: Apr 10, 2017 8:11 AM Full Story
Saturday, April 8, 2017
WCC to summer classes open registration begins April 11
Even though spring is barely here, it time to think about summer classes. The first open registration period for summer 2017 college credit courses at Wayne Community College will be 8 a.m.-4 p.m., April 11-12 and 8 a.m.-noon, April 13...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Efton Sager awarded Order of the Longleaf Pine
Efton Sager is presented the Order of the Longleaf Pine Tuesday morning by state Rep. John Bell. Sager is a former Wayne County commissioner and state legislator. The award, the highest honor bestowed on a citizen by the governor, was...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Six Wayne County juniors to attend Governor's School
Six high school juniors have been chosen to attend the 2017 Governor's School of North Carolina this summer. Governor's School is the oldest statewide summer residential program for academically and intellectually gifted high school students. The program is open to...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Fair at Goldsboro High encourages health education and future planning
Though students asked more about jobs and colleges, organizations still shared some healthy tips Friday at Goldsboro High School's annual health and career fair. Students walked through the gym to speak with law enforcement, military personnel, educators and health professionals...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Operation Unite Goldsboro to meet
An effort to join nonprofits, businesses and other organizations serving the public is planned during the first meeting of Operation Unite Goldsboro. The meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Rebuilding Broken Places, 2105 N. William St. and is...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
County to evaluate future of Health Department building
Wayne County plans to hire a Greenville architect firm to evaluate whether the County Office Building can be renovated or needs to be demolished. The building, which is the old Wayne Memorial Hospital, houses the Wayne County Health Department and...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Local, state offices to close for Good Friday
Local and state offices will be closed Friday, April 14, in observance of Good Friday. Federal offices, post offices and banks will be open. All Wayne County offices, the landfill and convenience centers will be closed Friday, April 14. The...Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
County Democrats choose new leadership during convention
The Wayne County Democratic Party elected new officials at its convention Saturday, and selected members of the party's state executive committee. Held at the Wayne County Courthouse, the convention drew delegates from 14 of the county's 15 organized Democratic districts....Published: Apr 8, 2017 11:30 PM Full Story
Woman injured in wreck on N.C. 55
A Fayetteville woman is expected to live after colliding head-on with a dump truck on N.C. 55 West on Friday evening. State Highway Patrolman A.J. Hostinsky said 61-year-old Mercedes Harris of Fayetteville was driving east in her Jeep Grand Cherokee...Published: Apr 8, 2017 5:58 PM Full Story
Friday, April 7, 2017
Two men charged in robbery
Two men face felony charges after an investigation linked them to a robbery that took place March 14 at the Saulston Food Mart. Chester Lee McNeil Jr., 30, of 701 U.S. 70 Bypass, and Marcus Matthews McKinney Cobb, 25, of...Published: Apr 7, 2017 2:05 PM Full Story
Bus carrying 30 NorWayne middle schoolers runs off the road, no injuries
A Wayne County Public Schools bus driver ran off the road and into a field along NorWayne School Road this morning with about 30 students on board. Nobody was injured. The school system's Transportation Director, Robert Lee, said driver Darryl...Published: Apr 7, 2017 11:11 AM Full Story
Former resident drowns in Florida
Former Goldsboro resident James Forsythe drowned Tuesday in Destin, Fla., while trying to help his teenage daughter, Madison, and her friend, who got caught in rough surf. The two girls survived. Officials had put up double red flags earlier in...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Hoops for Troops will be this weekend
Last year, the Hoops with Troops basketball tournament brought airmen and Goldsboro civilians closer together through friendly competition at Dillard Middle School. This year, the event is back for a second go-round. The second annual Hoops with Troops tournament...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Flood plain maps to be revised
The active coal ash basin at Duke Energy's H.F. Lee plant will be removed from maps designating the floodway of the Neuse River's 100-year flood plain should the state approved revised maps. Duke isn't the only property owner that...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Festival for Explorers
The annual Explorer Fun Fest is now open on Spence Avenue where people of all ages can take in traditional carnival rides, play games and support Wayne County youth. The festival is a fundraiser for the Goldsboro Police Department's Law...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Home shot into on Running Deer Circle while people are inside
DUDLEY -- A home on South Running Deer Circle was shot into several times Wednesday night while people were inside, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. No injuries were reported. The report said 23-year-old Donald Stewart and...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Fundraiser Saturday at Goldsboro Worship Center
Raymond and Lorena Saylor invite families to the Goldsboro Worship Center Saturday to help raise money for their 90-day mission work in Africa. Mrs. Saylor said she and her husband leave for Tanzania on June 20, and she said...Published: Apr 7, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
First of 'Kinston Six' to stand trial Monday for 2014 killing of 21-year-old mother of three
One of six men accused of gunning down a young mother of three on Halloween night 2014 will stand trial for first-degree murder Monday. Alquan Hill is one of six men whom law enforcement has called the "Kinston Six." Hill...Published: Apr 7, 2017 8:12 AM Full Story
Thursday, April 6, 2017
Firehouse Subs, Chipotle prepare to open on Berkeley Blvd.
Firehouse Subs and Chipotle Mexican Grill are preparing to open in Goldsboro as the new shopping center takes shape near the corner of Berkeley Boulevard and Cashwell Drive. Firehouse Subs, known for its public safety decor and sub sandwiches, will...Published: Apr 6, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Teenager stabs father in chest
A 16-year-old stabbed his father in the chest during an argument Wednesday night, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. The father signed a non-prosecution form and charges will not be pressed in the case, Maj. Tom Effler said. "It didn't...Published: Apr 6, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Special Olympics at Eastern Wayne
Charity Allen reached out her hand. She felt nothing until Jennifer Macha grabbed it. "Come on," Allen said. She ran beside Macha 25 meters in six seconds for the Wayne County Special Olympics for adults Wednesday at Eastern Wayne...Published: Apr 6, 2017 10:07 AM Full Story
Two men inside house during drive-by escape injury
DUDLEY -- A home on South Running Deer Circle was shot into several times Wednesday night while people were inside, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. No injuries were reported. The report said 23-year-old Donald Stewart and 21-year-old...Published: Apr 6, 2017 10:06 AM Full Story
Wayne County, central N.C. under Tornado Watch until 1 p.m.
The county is under a Tornado Watch and wind advisory for the next several hours, according to the National Weather Service in Raleigh. The Tornado Watch is set to expire at 1 p.m., but the wind advisory should last until...Published: Apr 6, 2017 7:44 AM Full Story
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Louisiana man confesses to 24-year-old Wayne County killing on the anniversary of the murder
SEVEN SPRINGS -- A 74-year-old man is waiting to be brought back to Wayne County from Louisiana after confessing in February to the decades-old murder of his son-in-law in 1993. Allen Deaver has lived in Livingston, Louisiana since shortly after...Published: Apr 5, 2017 5:04 PM Full Story
Man falls short distance from Waffle House roof
A man fell four feet off the Waffle House roof Wednesday afternoon while repairing the air conditioner. Assistant Chief James Farfour with the Goldsboro Fire Department said the man fell from one level of the roof to another at the...Published: Apr 5, 2017 3:02 PM Full Story
Man falls short distance from Waffle House roof
A man fell four feet off the Waffle House roof Wednesday afternoon while repairing the air conditioner. Assistant Chief James Farfour with the Goldsboro Fire Department said the man fell from one level of the roof to another at the...Published: Apr 5, 2017 3:01 PM Full Story
Woman fleeing hit and run crashes into car dealership lot, causes $100K in damage
A woman fleeing the scene of a hit and run this morning drove off of U.S. 70 East onto Sunburst Drive and crashed into several cars in the lot of Frema Motors causing an estimated $100,000 in damage. Police said...Published: Apr 5, 2017 11:12 AM Full Story
Board approves training facility for law enforcement, rescue
A public safety training facility for fire, law enforcement and rescue personnel could be built on the Wayne Community College campus. Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning authorized County Manager George Wood to proceed with issuing a request for qualifications...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Pikeville town board picks rep for energy votes
PIKEVILLE -- Town clerk Lisa Pate was approved by board members Monday night to serve as an alternate representative at Duke Energy Progress meetings for the town of Pikeville. Pate became the town clerk in January, and she will represent...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Proposed federal budget cuts could have local affect
The future of public housing, community development grants and funding to the arts is uncertain as agencies brace for cuts proposed in the Trump administration budget. The administration rolled out a budget blueprint for programs that receive discretionary funding,...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Sidebar: County Meals on Wheels serves 118,846
Meals on Wheels provided home-delivered meals to 360 Wayne County residents last Tuesday. There are actually two components to the program -- home delivery and congregate nutrition program sites where senior citizens can go to the Peggy Seegars Center...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Local Meals on Wheels is safe from budget cuts, but concenrs linger
Lela Powell's and Wilbert Campbell's faces break into huge smiles as Meals on Wheels volunteer Ken Ritt takes a few minutes to chat with them as he makes his morning deliveries. It is for people like Campbell and Ms....Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Council talks diversity in city leaders
Members of the Goldsboro City Council exchanged words Tuesday night about diversity in city leadership, rental fees for a mobile stage and one councilman accused the other of deleting the police chief's Facebook site. During a back-and-forth disagreement about...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Eastern Wayne Elementary students win 'Battle of the Books' competition
From staff reports Eastern Wayne Elementary students successfully put their reading skills to the test by winning the Wayne County Public Schools annual Elementary Battle of the Books competition this week. Approximately 115 students from 14 schools competed in the...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
City lights up blue for autism awareness month
ROCHELLEMOORE [email protected] Some may think downtown's water fountain turned Carolina Blue this week but the color was changed to recognize National Autism Awareness Month. The fountain water was dyed blue the same weekend as UNC battled for the NCAA title,...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Acknowledging the fragility of life
Nola Claiborne scurried around outside city hall Tuesday, putting the finishing touches on the annual Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation Ceremony. The somber topic belied the weather -- overcast skies cleared to make way for the sun as the crowd...Published: Apr 5, 2017 9:59 AM Full Story
Eastern Wayne Elementary wins Battle of the Books competition
Eastern Wayne Elementary students successfully put their reading skills to the test by winning the Wayne County Public Schools annual Elementary Battle of the Books competition this week. Approximately 115 students from 14 schools competed in the quiz bowl-style...Published: Apr 5, 2017 7:51 AM Full Story
Police seek information in attempted robbery
On Monday, March 27, at approximately 12:30 p.m., officers of the Goldsboro Police Department responded to the Speedway Convenient Store, 1501 U.S. 70 West, in reference to a robbery and shots fired call. Once officers arrived on-scene, they made contact...Published: Apr 5, 2017 6:49 AM Full Story
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Center could be future shelter
Floodproofing Herman Park Center and adding a generator so that it could serve as an emergency shelter is one of the ideas to emerge from ongoing disaster planning meetings. Planning consultants hired by the state say the goal is...Published: Apr 4, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Residents, board address pre-K program in county
School board member Jennifer Strickland clarified her position on pre-K programs on Monday night. The need for pre-K has been a hot topic of late, sparked further at a joint meeting between the school board and commissioners last month. Commissioner...Published: Apr 4, 2017 8:18 AM Full Story
Frustration fuels second disaster planning meeting
Frustration appeared to fuel the questions last Thursday night during the second of three Hurricane Matthew disaster planning meetings. Held at Wayne Community College, the session was to have focused on construction, review and feedback on the first draft of...Published: Apr 4, 2017 8:18 AM Full Story
Man charged with meth while being booked at detention center
Authorities found methamphetamine on a man as they booked him into the Wayne County Detention Center on other charges Thursday, according to a press release. Guillermo Rivas-Vera, 20, of 301 Serenity Drive, is charged with possession with intent to sell...Published: Apr 4, 2017 7:06 AM Full Story
Multiple break-ins in city and county are under investigation
Authorities arrested and charged two men Friday believed to be responsible for breaking into a man's home while his child was inside, according to a press release. Upward of a half-dozen other break-ins throughout the city and county are also...Published: Apr 4, 2017 6:59 AM Full Story
Monday, April 3, 2017
Child abuse awareness event to be Tuesday
The fight against child abuse continues as several agencies in Wayne County combine efforts to raise awareness and work to eradicate the problem. Over the years, the local effort has taken on a variety of forms, the most visible...Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
'Have a Heart for Kids'
Suzanne and Kristy Jackson and Debbie Brantham catch up while looking through silent action items during the fourth annual Have a Heart for Kids fundraiser to benefit Communities in Schools Friday night at the Terrace Room....Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Man arrested for hitting woman with dumbbell
A man is facing a felony charge after striking his 59-year-old neighbor in the face with a dumbbell Saturday night, according to police reports. Willard Matthew Fowler, 32, of 413 Magnolia St., is charged with felony assault with a deadly...Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Board to schedule bond hearing
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday are expected to schedule a public hearing on their plans to borrow $42 million for several projects, including schools and the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention Center. The board will be asked to set the...Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Man charged with assault after cutting
A man is facing felony charges after allegedly cutting someone in the face at a local hotel Friday morning. Corea Shaleto Pearsall, 39, of 711 N. James St., is charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to...Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Man is sexually assaulted at Days Inn
A man was sexually assaulted after taking drugs at the Days Inn on U.S. 70 Bypass East Saturday night, according to a Goldsboro police report. The 23-year-old man told police he went to the Days Inn and someone asked...Published: Apr 3, 2017 9:57 AM Full Story
Teacher becomes the student: Teaching machining
Bailee Daniels did not set out to pursue a degree in the male-dominant field of machining. Nor did she envision being hired into the Wayne Community College program at 19 and becoming a full-time instructor a year later. But now,...Published: Apr 3, 2017 8:18 AM Full Story
Sunday, April 2, 2017
Wilkersons named 'Purple Heart Family' by order
When Syl Wilkerson received his Purple Heart in 1966, he never knew how much it would mean to his family. As an Army special forces operative, Wilkerson was frequently away from his family for weeks at a time, leaving them...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Williams pays tax on city property
Goldsboro City Councilman Antonio Williams will avoid property foreclosure on his Center Street building after paying off years of delinquent taxes by an April 1 deadline. Williams and Akeata Moore, owners of 143 N. Center St. in downtown Goldsboro, paid...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Council to meet Tuesday
The Goldsboro City Council is expected to review a proposal for new stormwater fees during its meeting Tuesday. Recommendations from a recently formed stormwater stakeholder committee will be presented to council, along with some of the city's challenges in maintaining...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Sun smiles on Fremont party
FREMONT -- A gaggle of children jumped up and down in the middle of Main Street trying to catch bubbles as they floated out from Shari Stewart's bubble-making machine Saturday. Peyton Grantham, 4, caught a few -- she attends Fremont...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Assistant principal charged with DWI
An assistant principal at Goldsboro High School was arrested during a traffic stop in Lenoir County last month and charged with driving while impaired. Maya Leonard Swinson, 46, was reportedly cited by Kinston Police Department and taken to Lenoir County...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Wayne County working to expand pre-K
In 17 years of teaching, Wayne County's Wee Wings program is the most successful program Kimberly Cassidy says she has ever been a part of. Ms. Cassidy teaches the mobile pre-K class, housed in a retrofitted school bus, to...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Man shot in leg Friday night on Slocumb Street
Police are investigating a Friday night shooting on South Slocumb Street that left one man injured, according to a police report. Bobby Lee Peterson, 23, was shot in the leg at his home at 1708 S. Slocumb St. around 10:50...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Kilt Run raises money for cancer charity
The Flying Shamrock's third annual Kilt Run saw a small turnout Saturday -- but there was plenty of spirit to go around. Owner Chris Yones said the Irish pub raised about $250 for Riley's Army, a local childhood cancer charity...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Highway Patrol to be out in force
In anticipation of spring break and the beginning of prom season, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol will conduct Operation "Drive to Live" during the week of Monday, April 3, through Friday, April 7. The operation will be conducted...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Kylie Glisson named scholarship winner
The American Association of Swine Veterinarians Foundation awarded scholarships totaling $25,000 to 15 veterinary students during the 48th AASV annual meeting in Denver, Colorado. Among the winners was Kylie Glisson of Wayne County, who graduated valedictorian of her 2010 class...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:25 AM Full Story
Dance for Christ: Cast wants to spread love of God through art of dancing
The curtain opens to show heaven. People are dancing everywhere. New arrivals run across the stage, happy to meet people from their lives who were already there. "The emotions they show on their faces are just so beautiful," said 15-year-old...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:24 AM Full Story
Cures for the Colors run kicks off May 6
The annual Cures for the Colors cancer fundraiser will take place May 6 at Wayne Community College. In the morning, there will be the walk/run portion of Cures for the Colors. There will be an individual 5K timed event that...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:24 AM Full Story
Antioch Church hosts appreciation banquet
When the Rev. Dr. Kenneth J. Tate was able to get back into his church on West Elm Street after it had been flooded by Hurricane Matthew, he opened the doors to find total devastation. Water stood knee-deep all around...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:24 AM Full Story
Miss Eastern Wayne
Breanna Lester, third from left, was recently crowned Miss Eastern Wayne 2017 and received a $2,200 scholarship. Also pictured, from left: Nauttii Council, Miss Congeniality; Alston Tyndall, first runner-up and Miss Congeniality, who received a $1,600 scholarship and a $1,000...Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:24 AM Full Story
Art in the Park
Saturday couldn't have been a better day for the Art in the Park event sponsored by the Arts Council of Wayne County and the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park....Published: Apr 2, 2017 12:24 AM Full Story
Saturday, April 1, 2017
Sunday: Family of Purple Heart recipient first to be inducted into organization
When Syl Wilkerson received his Purple Heart in 1966, he never knew how much it would mean to his family. As an Army special forces operative, Wilkerson was frequently away from his family for weeks at a time, leaving them...Published: Apr 1, 2017 5:04 PM Full Story