October 2004 archives

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Sunday, October 31, 2004

Early voting in county shatters record

Polls open Tuesday in Wayne County. Is there anyone left who hasn't voted? When one-stop early voting closed Saturday, nearly 20,600 county residents had already made their choices for president, governor and county commissioner. That equals a 34-percent turnout before...

First 'Feast in East' whets appetite for more

As the first "Feast in the East" neared its end Saturday night, organizers may not have been in Hog Heaven, but they were close. "It's gone extremely well," said Steve Hicks, director of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, as...

Frightful fun fills downtown Goldsboro

Halloween got off to a boo-ti-ful start Friday during downtown Goldsboro's annual Boo-It celebration. A host of colorful characters, from pumpkins to witches, superheroes and fairies, flitted across the pedestrian plaza on Center Street. From 4 to 5 p.m., the...

County keeps A+ bond rating

Wayne County received some good news last week that could save the county thousands, even millions, as it finances future projects. Standard and Poor's, one of the financial firms that rates local governments for lenders, notified the county Thursday that...

Goldsboro City Council to vote Monday on rezonings

The Goldsboro City Council will meet Monday at 7 p.m. in the council chambers of city hall. The council will vote on the following: *A request by Austin Scott to rezone the east side of Rosewood Road between Glenn Drive...

Jury selection to continue Monday in Lane murder trial

The search for four more jurors in the first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane will resume Monday morning in Wayne County Superior Court. About 90 people have been interviewed since Oct. 13. Only about 50 are left in the...

Public Record

Weapons seized Weapons were seized from students at two schools last week, but school officials did not press criminal charges against either student. An 8-year-old was found to be carrying a pocketknife at Meadow Lane School Thursday afternoon, according to...

Briefly

Museum event The Wayne County Museum will have a "Handmade Specialty Event" on Nov. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Baked goods, natural handmade crafts and silk flower arrangements will be for sale at the museum, and proceeds from...

Friday, October 29, 2004

Third teen charged in bank robbery

Three teen-agers have now been arrested in last week's armed robbery of the New Century Bank in Goldsboro. The latest charge of armed robbery is against Leon Vinson Jr., 17, of South John Street. Two others charged are Octavius M....

School candidates spar over city schools

A political forum Thursday gave two Wayne County school board candidates the opportunity to air their differences on racial diversity and improving scores in Goldsboro schools. Joseph Hackett and Pete Gurley, running for the at-large school board seat, disagreed on...

Mt. Olive Airport runway extension takes off

MOUNT OLIVE -- Work has begun on extending the runway at Mount Olive's airport, and the town board will be asked to award a contract to continue the expansion. The extension project is required by the state and will allow...

Waynesborough needs money

The Old Waynesborough Commission is developing a fund-raising plan to improve the historical village. The commission has a list of projects that need to be funded, including: *The restoration of the Best House; *Expansion of the general store, visitor's center...

One-stop voting ends Saturday

One-stop voting in the general elections ends Saturday at Wayne County's three polling places. Voting will go until 6 today and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Wayne County Public Library, 1001 E. Ash St.; Belfast Fire...

Judge denies mistrial motion

An eighth juror was seated Thursday in Wayne County Superior Court in the murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane -- but not before the defense asked for a mistrial. Defense lawyer Edwin L. West III of Wilmington had objected to...

Burr calls for tort reform

Congress needs to pass tort reform as an incentive for businesses to grow, U.S. Rep. Richard Burr said in Goldsboro Thursday. "Congress needs to spend some time determining how we can allow companies ... to continue to be innovative," Burr...

Students chosen for state chorus

Four Eastern Wayne Middle School students have qualified to be a part of the North Carolina Middle School Honors Chorus. They are Sang Woo Kim, son of Hen and Jin Kim; Alden Pridgen, daughter of Rick and Allison Pridgen; Shelton...

Public records

Store robbed A clerk at a service station was robbed before dawn today of an undetermined amount of money, a Goldsboro police report said. The clerk told police that a man entered the Save More store at 1903 E. Ash...

Mt. Olive station wants to move tower

MOUNT OLIVE -- The town Airport Committee met with Ann Mayo and Steven Hartsell, a lawyer from the Federal Communications Commission, to talk about moving the 200-foot-tall tower that transmits the signal from the family's radio station. WDJS is at...

Briefly

Wine tasting for Habitat The Healthabit store in Goldsboro will donate the proceeds from its 10th Annual Wine Tasting to Habitat for Humanity. The wine tasting will be held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Nov. 13 at Herman...

Election coverage coming Sunday

Still confused about who to vote for or just want to learn more about the candidates? On Sunday, the News-Argus will run its election issue, with comprehensive coverage on local, state and national races. The issue will also contain district...

Books on parade at Brogden

Second-grade students at Brogden Primary School celebrated Halloween a different way this year. They dressed up as the character of their choice and paraded around the school. Rachel Jones said she had introduced the "Books on Parade" idea last year...

Thursday, October 28, 2004

Teen charged with robbing bank

A Goldsboro teen-ager was arrested Wednesday by Goldsboro police and charged with last week's holdup of the New Century Bank. Octavius M. Broadhurst, 17, of East Maple Street was charged with felony armed robbery. He was placed in the Wayne...

Boy's recovery from brain injury progresses

CALYPSO -- A boy who was hit by a truck while crossing the street in August is back home today. Eight-year-old Benjamin Story came home to Calypso on Oct. 20, eight weeks and two days after a helicopter had taken...

Trick or treat is Friday

Friday is the night for Halloween trick-or-treating in Wayne County. Recommended times for trick-or-treating in Golds-boro, Mount Olive and Wayne County are from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Calypso has designated 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Faison has no recommended...

Farmers have questions about tobacco buyout

MOUNT OLIVE -- The recently passed tobacco buyout has spawned many questions from farmers. David Rouzer, senior adviser to Sen. Elizabeth Dole, tried to answer some of those questions Wednesday before 125 farmers at Oak Wolfe Fire Department. "This has...

Ballantine to visit again

Patrick Ballantine, Republican candidate for governor, will be at two campaign stops in Goldsboro on Saturday. He will hold a breakfast "meet and greet" at Madison's Restaurant, 413 New Hope Road, at 8:30 a.m. Saturday and then appear at the...

Feast in the East schedule set

Eastern North Carolina barbecue and entertainment will be on display during the first Feast in the East Festival held Friday and Saturday at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. Here is the schedule for this weekend's events. Friday, Oct. 29 *Noon --...

Jury selection plods along

A new method designed to speed up jury selection in the murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane produced no new jurors Wednesday. The state did question numerous people in Wayne County Superior Court for the five remaining seats. The prosecution...

WATCH joins diabetes initiative

WATCH has been chosen to participate in a state program to help improve the care of patients with diabetes. Kathy Johnson, family nurse practitioner with WATCH, told the board of directors Wednesday that the state is working with health care...

Walnut Creek to maintain speed enforcement

The Walnut Creek Village Council said Wednesday that it had no intentions of slacking off on the enforcement of speed limits. The council's comments were in response to a concern voiced by a village resident who asked that the speed...

Briefly

Halfway mark United Way of Wayne County is almost at half of its fund-raising goal of $1,332,000, reports Donnie Barnes, campaign chairman. A total of $659,530 has been raised, which United Way officials say will improve the lives of 13,190...

Public records

Two hurt in wreck Two drivers were injured and damages were estimated at $15,000 in two recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, the Highway Patrol reported. *Damages were estimated at $7,500 in a three-truck collision at 6:05 p.m. Tuesday at...

HOG toy run planned

The Harley Owners of Goldsboro (HOG) and United Way of Wayne County have teamed up for the 7th annual HOG Toy Run. It will be held Nov. 6, beginning in Smithfield and ending in Goldsboro. Motorcyclists who want to participate...

Geoff Hulse honored

Geoff Hulse, a criminal defense lawyer for 19 years, has received the highest award given by the 8th Judicial District Bar Association for his tireless work in the community. Hulse received the Tommy Jarrett Citizen Lawyer of the Year Award...

Wednesday, October 27, 2004

Memorial for Dr. Ed Hogan

News-Argus/Winkie Lee A Rose of Sharon tree is planted in Dr. Ed Hogan's honor at the Kitty Askins Hospice Center on Tuesday afternoon. The tree is in recognition of his contributions to his community and to the center. From...

Cherry, O'Berry back off alliance

The alliance planned between Cherry Hospital and O'Berry Center in January has been suspended. Mike Moseley, director of the state Division of Mental Health, said Tuesday that in the process of combining services, "we have encountered some issues that have...

A counselor and teacher has one last lesson for us

He is tired now and sleeps several hours a day. He no longer lives at home; instead, he has moved in with friends. His voice is weak, and sometimes he has difficulty walking. But Dr. Ed Hogan is ever the...

Judge tries to speed up jury selection

After nine days of selecting a jury in the murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane and only seven jurors having been picked, the judge decided the process was moving too slowly. Judge D. Jack Hooks of Whiteville abandoned the one-juror-at-a-time...

Wings Over Wayne schedule released

A full day of aircraft performances is on tap for this year's Wings Over Wayne at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The event will be Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The base is expecting between 60,000 and...

Dority stresses his opposition to homosexual marriage

Republican candidate Greg Dority came to Goldsboro on Tuesday to "endorse" his opponent in the U.S. House's 1st District. "I encourage you to vote for G.K. Butterfield," Dority told a dozen people at the county Republican headquarters. "That is, if...

Company to buy Duplin shell building

KENANSVILLE -- Precision Hydraulic Cylinders has outgrown its plant in Beulaville and will send part of its operations to Duplin County's shell building in Wallace. And the county commissioners plan to help. The commissioners held a special meeting Tuesday to...

School candidate denies endorsement

A candidate for state superintendent of public instruction says his name was used in a Wayne county school board candidate's advertisement without permission, and it did not constitute an endorsement. In the latest advertisement for Joseph Hackett, running for the...

Sewer bids come in over-budget in Pikeville

PIKEVILLE -- It appears that a Goldsboro company is the low-bidder for Pikeville's plans to build a new sewer plant. T.A. Loving Co. in Goldsboro offered a price of $2,769,000. The other bidders were Dellinger Inc. of Monroe at $3,789,901...

Public records

Traffic accidents Ten people were injured and damages were estimated at $49,700 in seven recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, officers reported. *A passenger was injured in a two-vehicle wreck at 4:20 p.m. Tuesday at North William and Orange streets,...

Golden Agers find fun things to do for those over 52

MOUNT OLIVE -- Dot Dearen of Calypso is only 60, but the Golden Agers of Calypso have no age limit for members. She was among about a dozen seniors who met for lunch Tuesday at the Southern Belle Restaurant in...

Group wants to revive Faison Christmas parade

FAISON -- Santa Claus may be riding in another Christmas parade. Faison officials had decided in September not to have a parade, but a group of residents is hoping to change their minds. About 16 members of the Faison Improvement...

Couch dumped at gym

When employees at Larry's Gym found a mattress and a sofa dumped behind the business last weekend, they didn't take it lying down. Before cleaning up the mess, the owner found a pay stub and a bank statement in the...

Chief Reid receives award

FREMONT -- Fremont Police Chief Ben Reid Jr. was shocked and surprised last week. The veteran lawman received the annual Vocational Service Award from the Fremont Rotary Club. "I'm really proud of it," said the 61-year-old Reid. Reid's wife, Lois,...

Checks to start clearing faster

People depositing checks may soon notice the money appearing in their account quicker. That also means those who write the checks will see the money disappear faster. Many financial institutions across the nation will be accepting digital images of checks...

Briefly

Fair Share finalist Robin Grady, an employee of the Goldsboro News-Argus, is the fifth finalist in United Way's Fair Share Challenge. The Fair Share Challenge is sponsored by Goldsboro Chrysler Dodge Jeep. To qualify for the six other weekly drawings...

Tuesday, October 26, 2004

Line forms early for flu vaccine

When Health Director James Roosen arrived to work at 7:30 this morning, he estimated 400 people were standing in line for the flu vaccine. The Health Department an-nounced last week there would be a free flu clinic today from 8...

Minchew to retire at end of second term

Marshall Minchew an-nounced today that he will not seek a third four-year term as Wayne County clerk of court. He said he will retire when his current term ends in December 2006. "This was not an overnight decision," Minchew said....

Feast in the East set for this weekend

Wayne County residents and visitors will get a chance this week to pig out on the stuff that helped make the place famous -- pork barbecue. It will be offered at a festival celebrating that most succulent of local products,...

Early voting takes off in Wayne -- 11,000 so far

Wayne County residents are going to the one-stop polling places at nearly three times the rate of North Carolinians as a whole, elections officials say. As of this morning, nearly 11,000 county residents had voted via one-stop. That equals nearly...

Public records

Man charged in store holdup A store employee in the Little River Shopping Center was robbed Monday, and a man was arrested quickly by Goldsboro police and charged with the crime. The clerk told police that a black man entered...

Two more jurors selected to hear Lane murder trial

Two more jurors were seated Monday in Wayne County Superior Court in the first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane. The two women joined three other women and a man who were seated last week. The 33-year-old Lane is on...

Crime Stoppers -- Tips lead to 8 arrests on felony charges

Eight fugitives, including a man wanted on numerous felony charges, have been arrested by authorities after anonymous calls to Goldsboro-Wayne County Crime Stoppers. The Crime Stoppers police coordinator, Sgt. Dot Ardes, told the agency's monthly board meeting that a probation...

Briefly

It's 1st through 4th floors Visitors should no longer be confused by the numbers of the floors at the Wayne County Courthouse Annex. It now will be as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4. The bottom floor will no longer...

WAGES weatherization program -- it's no longer putting plastic over windows

The focus of WAGES' weatherization program has changed drastically since the days of putting plastic on the windows for insulation. Its primary goal continues to be reducing energy costs, but has expanded to include educating the public on how to...

Postal machine cuts lines

The Goldsboro Post Office on William Street has a new automated postal center to help shorten waiting lines. The new machine has been in the post office for over a month, and last week, postal officials demonstrated its capabilities to...

Halloween safety tips

Wayne County roads and Goldsboro streets will be filled Friday night with little ghosts, goblins and witches going door to door trick-or-treating. The county and its municipalities -- Goldsboro, Mount Olive, Fremont, Pikeville, Walnut Creek, Eureka and Seven Springs --...

Spooky things to do in North Carolina

RALEIGH -- Looking for a scary weekend vacation in North Carolina? From the "Boo-ridge Mountains" to the "creepy coast," there are lots of terrifying travel destinations to choose from: Mountains *Tweetsie Railroad Ghost Train -- Boone, 1-877-TWEETSIE Weekends, Oct. 1-30....

Candidates discuss issues in Grantham Grange forum

About 45 people showed up to hear candidates during a political forum held by the Grantham Grange. Grange President Bobby Crawford dispensed with the business during the Grange's regular meeting Monday night in the Grantham fire station. The Grange has...

Monday, October 25, 2004

Nonprofit groups rely on fair for fund-raisers

The Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair is not only a time for everyone to enjoy good food and entertainment, it also serves as one of the largest fund-raisers for churches and other nonprofit organizations. Milton Ingram, the fair manager, said there...

Twenty-nine groups have fair booths

Here are the nonprofit organizations that had booths at this year's Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: *Church of God *Stoney Creek Baptist Church *Charles B. Aycock Band Boosters *Disabled American Veterans *Waynesborough Kiwanis Club *Lions Club *Democratic and Republican parties *First...

Seminar set to help smokers quit

A seminar to help smokers break the habit will be held next month. WATCH Substance Abuse Task Force is sponsoring the free seminar, planned for Tuesday, Nov. 9, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Wayne County public schools' administrative...

FBI joins search for bank robber

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined Goldsboro police in the search for a man who robbed a Goldsboro bank. The robber entered the New Century Bank at 425 N. Spence Ave. at about 1:20 p.m. Friday, displayed a handgun...

Mary Wood to retire from Sprunt

KENANSVILLE -- Dr. Mary Wood is retiring as president of James Sprunt Community College. "I'm proud to have had the opportunity to serve as president for the past five years," said Dr. Wood, a native of northern Wayne County. She...

Public records

Drugs cited as cause in fatal shooting Drugs were involved in the fatal shooting of a 24-year-old Dudley man, a Wayne County sheriff's official said today. Capt. George Raecher made the comment but would not elaborate on a motive. He...

OPINION -- News rack kidnapped

We were watching the "evening news" on the tube recently. It was the usual left-wing version on everything from the economy to who's to blame for the flu vaccine shortage. (Who else!) Then there was a piece that grabbed my...

Sunday, October 24, 2004

Student charged with murder

A 16-year-old Southern Wayne High School student has been charged in the Oct. 15 shooting of a 24-year-old Dudley man. James Marqui Bowden, Daffodil Drive, Dudley, was charged at 4 p.m. Friday afternoon by Wayne County Sheriff's deputies. The sophomore...

Bank robbed in Goldsboro

Police are investigating the Friday afternoon armed robbery at The New Century Bank at North Spence Avenue and Cashwell Drive. A black male reportedly entered the bank at 1:33 p.m., pulled out a weapon and demanded money. A clerk gave...

Wayne turns out to make a difference

School children collected food and coats for other needy children and wrote letters to deployed airman. Military personnel made a sensory garden for handicapped children and restored the bell tower of an historic building. Adults and children restocked the nearly...

Bowles comes to Goldsboro

Stephanie Kornegay of Mount Olive looked around for familiar faces at Saturday morning's campaign stop for U.S. Senate hopeful Erskine Bowles. It was her second political rally of the day. She had already been to a breakfast at Southern Belle...

Flying high over Grantham

GRANTHAM -- George Moore climbs into the seat behind pilot Charles Stackhouse. "Charles was my flight instructor last year," says Moore as they cinch into the seat belts of the Cessna 182 that Stackhouse owns with his partner, Ronnie Griffin,...

Operation Santa Claus preparations under way

The mentally ill ... The Mental Health Association in Wayne County is preparing for Operation Santa Claus, its annual effort to bring some holiday cheer to the mentally ill and others who might be forgotten. The goal of Operation Santa...

Volunteers asked to fill shoe boxes for needy

It's time again for Operation Christmas Child, a project to help needy children. And Adamsville Baptist Church will continue to serve as a relay center for the project. The church will receive shoe boxes filled with items from Nov. 15...

Briefly

Death seminar Death and dying will be the subject of a seminar set for Tuesday, Nov. 9. Beginning at 11:45 a.m. at the Wayne County public schools' central office, Pat Faulk McCarter of Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home will speak at the...

KWCB to sponsor recycled ornament contest

And the environment Keep Wayne County Beautiful is once again offering its Recycled Christmas Ornament Contest. Now in its sixth year, the contest is one of the most popular activities, with 150 entries submitted last year. Students are encouraged to...

Public Record

Assault Ronald Edward Pigg, 34, of North John Street told police that while he was standing outside a residence on North James Street at 10:30 Friday night, he was approached by a man who asked about the bike Pigg was...

In the Military

James King Jr. Pvt. James H. King Jr. recently completed basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. The 13 weeks of training included classroom instruction and physical fitness classes. The private is now assigned to the...

Volunteer Wayne

Volunteer Wayne offers opportunities to serve Wayne County for all ages. This service is provided by Volunteer Wayne and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at Wayne Community College. Contact Joy Pearce at 735-5151, ext. 336, or at www.volunteersolutions.org/uwwc/volunteer...

Wayne County court news

Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Charlie Lee, 17, Herman Lane Road, Stantonsburg, cruelty to animals, mistrial declared; larceny of a dog and possession of stolen goods, dismissed. *Anthony Wayne Morton, 39, Daw Pate...

Friday, October 22, 2004

Schools to cut unfilled jobs to pay teachers

The Wayne County public school system says its decision about where to cut $876,802 from in its budget to pay for teacher supplemental pay raises was made easier because of unfilled job vacancies this year. The proposed cuts were presented...

Judge mulls sending annexation plan back to city

A judge said Thursday he is considering requiring that Goldsboro redo its controversial annexation after concerns about the process were raised this week at trial. Closing arguments in the annexation lawsuit were completed Thursday. Superior Court Judge Kenneth Crow said...

Manager list to be narrowed

The Goldsboro City Council spent this morning in closed session, narrowing down a list of candidates for the city manager position. The board met with Jim Mercer, owner of the Mercer Group, who is heading up the city's search for...

Senator speaks of base changes during Burr visit

Next year will be "the mother of all military base closures," a U.S. senator predicted Thursday while in Goldsboro. U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, believes a record number of bases will be shuttered...

Ballantine hopes to continue win streak

Introduced Thursday afternoon as "a man who has never lost an election," Patrick Ballantine grinned and let out a whoop. "Let's keep that going!" he said, and the 30 people in Wayne County Republican headquarters cheered. Ballantine, though, will need...

'When Pigs Fly' nears completion

Two pink papier-mâché pigs decorated the table in the board room at the Arts Council of Wayne County's art center. They -- like several others -- had been made by local high school students under the supervision of their instructors...

Knott seeks to replace Roy Cooper

Several politicians have used the North Carolina attorney general's office as a step to another office. Joe Knott says that needs to change. "I think the office needs an attorney, not a politician," Knott said during a campaign stop Thursday...

Family Y asks members to be patient in wake of fire

The Goldsboro Family YMCA is asking members to be patient. Repair of the damage from a recent fire is going to take longer than originally thought, says Assistant Executive Director Kriquette Davis. "We wanted to try to open the general...

'Walk to Remember' to be held this weekend

A "Walk to Remember" will be held this weekend as a way for loved ones to acknowledge the loss of a baby. Gethney Hill, director of nursing services in the prenatal unit at Wayne Memorial Hospital, said the event will...

Public records

Robbery attempt A Wayne County business owner was assaulted Thursday night during an attempted robbery and his car was broken into, a Goldsboro police report said. Ki Bong Kim, 51, told officers that the suspect put a box cutter to...

Filling jury box for Lane trial drags on

The state accepted eight new jurors Thursday to fill vacancies and passed them to the defense for questioning in the Wayne County Superior Court trial of Eric Glenn Lane. When the lengthy session ended at 6 p.m., defense lawyers Edwin...

Briefly

Hackett clarification Wayne County Board of Education candidate Joe Hackett said that he supports teacher supplements as well as staff training. Hackett disputed a News-Argus story published Thursday on the Mount Olive candidate forum quoting him as saying schools are...

Thursday, October 21, 2004

Wayne receives 1,390 flu shots

The Wayne County Health Department has been allocated 1,390 flu shot vaccines to be used for patients with the highest health risks. A free flu clinic will be held Tuesday at the Health Department from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m....

Annexation trial: City defends plan

Opponents of Goldsboro's latest annexation wrapped up their case Wednesday, raising questions about fire protection, water service, debt in the city's utility fund and the amount of time they had to respond to the proposed annexation. The city finished presenting...

Candidates in contested races speak at forum

MOUNT OLIVE -- A candidate forum this morning offered a rare chance to see both candidates in four of Wayne County's hardest-fought campaigns. Around 45 people came to Oliver's restaurant to hear from both contestants for two county commissioner seats,...

Doug Henry buys Scott Motor Co.

Scott Motor Co. Inc. of Goldsboro has been sold and is now Doug Henry Buick-Pontiac-GMC. Doug Henry has been selling cars for 25 years and has two other dealerships, a Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC store in Farmville, which opened in...

Briefly

Bowles coming Erskine Bowles, Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, will return to Goldsboro at 9 a.m. Saturday. He will speak with and greet the public at the city plaza, next to the Goldsboro police and fire complex on Center...

Feed mill planned for Calypso

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County commissioners will apply for $350,000 in grants to bring water and sewer service to a new Case Farms feed mill planned for Calypso. One of the grants will be for $200,000 and will be applied...

Warsaw releases schedule for famous parade

WARSAW -- The schedule for the 84th consecutive Veterans Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 6, is as follows: A pancake breakfast at the Masonic Lodge begins at 8 a.m., followed by the opening of the sidewalk vendors at 9 a.m....

Local digest

Internet class for business set A three-hour Internet-based class for building small businesses will be held at Wayne Community College next week. Virtual Incubator Platform for Eastern North Carolina, VIP for ENC, will be held on Tuesday evening from 6-9...

Public records

10 people injured in county collisions Ten people were injured and damages were estimated at $106,900 in nine recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, the Highway Patrol reported. *A driver was injured and damages were estimated at $20,000 in a...

Duplin group to hold pet adoptions

The Duplin Animal Rescue Team announces the following dates for upcoming pet adoptions. The pet adoptions are held from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the K-Mart on College Road in Wilmington. The next adoption is Saturday, Oct. 30. Then,...

Mount Olive Chamber banquet scheduled

MOUNT OLIVE -- John Cooper, who has brought millions of dollars into the community, will be the keynote speaker next month during the annual chamber banquet. The annual membership banquet of the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce will be...

Meadow Lane to receive azaleas

Meadow Lane Elementary School has been selected to receive 47 azaleas for use in beautification projects. The award is part of N.C. Beautiful's annual azalea celebration, which rewards community groups for improving the landscape of the state. "This project will...

Jurors excused for views on death penalty

Twelve jurors have been seated again in Wayne County Superior Court for the first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane. But when the state finished its questioning of them individually on Wednesday, four were excused and then replaced. The prosecution...

Wednesday, October 20, 2004

Money saver

News-Argus/Sam Atkins Tech. Sgt. Mark Kobayashi with the 4th Maintenance Group at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base fixes the wiring on a multi-purpose display unit, which is used in the F-15E Strike Eagle to display the lay of the...

City wins first round of annexation suit

Superior Court Judge Kenneth Crow ruled today in Goldsboro's favor on three issues brought before him Tuesday by the city's lawyers. Lawyers argued Tuesday in Wayne County Superior Court over whether Goldsboro followed the proper procedures in annexing an area...

Chairman wants board's progress to keep moving

A former chemistry teacher, J.D. Evans knows that stable solutions can become explosive if their components are altered. The Wayne County commissioners have been united this year as they've approved their budget, restricted development around Seymour Johnson Air Force Base,...

Airman saves Air Force money and gets rewarded

Two ideas have saved the Air Force around $2.7 million and put $18,000 in the pocket of an innovative airman at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. Tech. Sgt. Mark Kobayashi, a technician with the 4th Maintenance Group, saved the Air...

Aycock student wins national magazine event

Charles B. Aycock High School junior Sidney Best loves to read. So it was only natural for her to enter an on-line book club contest. Two months ago, readers of YM Magazine were invited to write a book review about...

Wayne students learn about voting by voting

The polls close tonight at 10. By morning, a new United States president will be announced. But even though it is a nationwide vote, it won't be enforceable since the ballots were submitted by middle and high school students. OneVote,...

Concord Coalition seeks constituency for balanced budgets

The federal budget deficit is reaching record levels, baby boomers will soon be retiring leading to Social Security debt and neither political party is addressing the problem. That's the distressing, and lonely, message of one nonprofit group that is trying...

Remembering Market Day: Produce sales kept Faison a busy place; now the town is reviving the tradition

FAISON -- Sarah McColman remembers the pickup trucks lining both sides of the street during the produce market days in the 1960s. Her mother told her there used to be lines of horses and buggies with the backs filled with...

Briefly

Eureka parade The Eureka Christmas Parade Committee is accepting entries for its Sunday, Dec. 12, parade. Lineup is at 2:30 p.m.; the parade begins at 3 in front of the Eureka United Methodist Church at 128 N. Church St. Entry...

Public records

Break-in A man broke into an apartment Tuesday, and while inside, he called the apartment's resident. Then he stole a DVD player, a 25-inch television, a crystal figurine and a jacket, a Goldsboro police report said. The resident then called...

Lane trial almost back to square one

The first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane is almost back to square one in Wayne County Superior Court. The defense on Tuesday used four of its 14 peremptory challenges to excuse jurors without reason. Four other jurors were removed...

Town backs off fee changes

FREMONT -- The Fremont town board passed a new fee schedule Tuesday, but there were no major changes. Town Administrator Kerry McDuffie said he wanted to add fees for zoning applications and permits and connection fees for its utilities. Fremont...

Cemetery's condiion irks resident

FREMONT -- A Fremont woman says her father is buried in "a cow pasture." Patricia Jackson made the comment Tuesday night when she and her husband, Wayne, complained to the Fremont town board about conditions at Elmwood Cemetery. Her father...

Burr visiting Wayne Center Thursday

U.S. Rep. Richard Burr will be at the Wayne Center on Thursday, beginning at 2:45 p.m., to talk about military pay, housing and other related issues. U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, a Georgia Re-publican, will accompany Burr. The public is invited....

Tuesday, October 19, 2004

Turnout at on-stop voting sites is larger than expected

Wayne County residents are enthusiastic about their right to vote. Or maybe they're ready for this election to be over. Either way, the one-stop early voting is proving to be far more popular than county officials had hoped. At the...

Allen says schools over-reacted

Goldsboro Councilman Chuck Allen said Monday that he didn't think Friday's decision by school administrators to postpone a high school football game was wise. "It upset me that they canceled the game, but didn't call the Police Department," Allen said....

Developers starting to look at Pikeville

PIKEVILLE -- Several developers have shown an interest in building apartment homes throughout the town, which would increase the population and tax base. "This is going to be a great opportunity for Pikeville to grow," said Mayor Herb Sieger. "This...

Democrats try to rally their supporters

With two weeks to go before Election Day, Wayne County Democrats were in high spirits Monday night. About 200 people turned out to the party's rally at the Wayne Center to eat barbecue, hear from state and local candidates, and...

Thunderbirds to fly at base's air show

The U.S. Air Force's Thunderbirds will be making their only appearance in North Carolina this year at the annual Wings Over Wayne Airshow at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The event will be Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 4...

City moves to buy land near base

The Goldsboro City Council picked two land appraisers and passed a budget amendment Monday as part of the effort to protect land surrounding Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. A $1.7 million grant, designed to restore acres of wetlands and protect...

Gateway seeks administrator to act as go-between for authority and Applebus

The Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority decided Monday to advertise for an administrator and also voted to buy three buses over the next two years. City Manager Richard Slozak said that the system is using three buses to run four routes. "Our...

Briefly

March of Dimes walk The WalkAmerica fund-raiser is taking place Saturday at Herman Park to help the March of Dimes combat premature births. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the walk starts at 10 a.m. The number of premature births...

Complaints aired about Duplin County employee salaries

KENANSVILLE -- People are complaining about what county employees are making. Duplin Sheriff Blake Wallace marched his deputies into the meeting of the county commissioners Monday to complain about what the new administrative secretary is making in the economic development...

Public records

Crime of the Week The fatal shooting of Billy Joe "B.J." Gregory of 201 Hazelwood Drive near Dudley on Friday night has been chosen by Goldsboro-Wayne County Crime Stoppers as its latest "Crime of the Week." Gregory was shot once...

Rosewood rezoning opposed

Though neighbors opposed a rezoning request for their neighborhood Monday night, they still had kind words for the man requesting the change. Austin Scott asked the city to rezone the east side of Rosewood Road between Glenn Drive and Moss...

Duplin paramedics move to intermediate care level

KENANSVILLE -- While state inspectors were approving intermediate level emergency care in Duplin County on Monday, the county commissioners were coming under pressure to advance to paramedic level. The county's EMS has been operating at a basic level. But as...

Jury selection continues in Lane trial

The defense will resume today its questioning of prospective jurors in Wayne County Superior Court in the first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane. The defense got its chance to interview 12 jurors individually Monday, after the state ended its...

Monday, October 18, 2004

Renewing vows

News-Argus/Becky Barclay The Rev. Thomas McLendon, left, officiates at the surprise renewal of vows at Rosewood Church of God for Sgt. and Mrs. William Michael Spence. Home from Iraq on a short leave, Spence surprised his wife with the...

Love during wartime

William Michael and Sarah Spence went to Sunday school at Rosewood Church of God as they have for the past 25 years. But this Sunday was different. Sgt. Spence was home from Iraq, where he has been serving with the...

Marine sees changes on second Iraqi mission

The threat of fire does not diminish whether military personnel are engaged in battle or protecting their camp from invasion, a U.S. Marine says. First Lt. David Wright of Goldsboro returned in September from his second tour of duty to...

Man dies in 4-wheeler accident

LaGRANGE -- A 41-year-old man was killed Saturday when his four-wheeler flipped on top of him near Ellington Way, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The victim was identified as Mark Montague Thompson of 210...

Minister defends political rally at church

The Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is denying that a political rally last week violated a church's nonprofit status. Furthermore, he called Dave Quick's complaint to the Internal Revenue Service an attempt to hold down the vote in the...

Walking among shadows -- Waynesborough spook trail

Fog swirled above the swamp behind the Old Waynesborough Village, its ghostly fingers poking through the walkways around the old historic buildings. The eerie atmosphere was a natural companion to the historic candlelight tour going on at the village for...

Annexation trial delayed

A Superior Court Judge delayed hearing the city of Goldsboro's motion for summary judgment in the annexation case until Tuesday afternoon, after agreeing that the plaintiffs were entitled to more time to prepare. The annexation opponents' lawyer told Judge Kenneth...

Red Cross sees blood shortage

The American Red Cross is facing double trouble this time of year. During the holiday season, donors are busy with other things and don't have as much time to give blood. But it's also the time when donations are needed...

Public records

Pet dies in fire A man left a pot on the stove Saturday, went to the store and returned to find his home at 136 Cambria Lane on fire. His pet dog died in the blaze, officials said. "It was...

OPINION -- Impromptu reunion

The parking lot on the Highway 111 shopping center was crowded to overflowing. Some cars were lined up on the approaching streets. And people were gathered three and four deep in a staggered line that wound the full length of...

Country star visits Goldsboro

The United States is "Where the Stars and Stripes and Eagle Fly," Aaron Tippin sang. It's also where Tippins fly. Saturday night, Tippin's father, Willis Emory Tippin, 77, of Oak City, received an unique honor for a North Carolinian during...

Awards presented at disability luncheon

Disabilities don't end the possibility of a fulfilling or exciting life, and courage and self-love are essential to overcoming society's prejudices toward the disabled. That's the message Donna Walton, speaker for the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities, presented at...

Community forum planned

The Wayne County Partnership for Children is sponsoring a forum to gather input from parents on services available for children. The forum will be held on Saturday, Oct. 30, from 9 to 11 a.m. in St. Mary's School auditorium. Parents...

Sunday, October 17, 2004

Helms visits county to rally support for Burr

Former Sen. Jesse Helms took center stage at a political rally Saturday in Wayne County, urging a crowd of several hundred to vote for Rep. Richard Burr. A frail Helms had to be helped onto the stage. He told the...

In Goldsboro stop, Bowles says Burr impeded better buyout

Tobacco farmers narrowly escaped economic disaster when Congress passed the tobacco quota buyout last week, U.S. Senate candidate Erskine Bowles said Friday. "We were looking at another 30 percent cut in the quota next year and that would have been...

Possibility of violence prompts homecoming game delay, closure

Relatives of Goldsboro High School freshman Treme' Boone traveled from Maryland this weekend hoping to see the quarterback play in the big homecoming football game. But they could only cheer him on from outside the gates because school officials learned...

Dudley man killed by gunshot wound

A 24-year-old Dudley man was shot and killed Friday night in a residence on Hazelwood Drive. Wayne County emergency personnel and deputies responded to the call around 8 p.m., and found Billy Joe Gregory in a mobile home with a...

Annexation case on way to court

Goldsboro's annexation opponents are headed to court Monday, almost six months to the day since the City Council voted to annex their land. In a 5-2 vote, the council decided on April 19 to annex the east and west sides...

Jury selection continues in Lane trial

Twelve jurors were seated Friday -- but probably only temporarily -- in the first-degree murder trial of Eric Glenn Lane in Wayne County Superior Court. Lane was accused of raping, kidnapping and murdering 5-year-old Precious Whitfield on May 17, 2002,...

Good deeds to fill county on Saturday

Food and supply drives, home construction, stuffed animals for domestic violence and fire victims, letters to deployed military -- these are just some of the many projects Wayne County residents will be doing Saturday for the 13th annual Make A...

Duplin agent touts virtues of bees' product

FAISON -- Honey and mankind go back tens of thousands of years, and people are still finding ways to use it. Trudy Smith, family and consumer education agent with the Duplin Cooperative Extension Service, told seniors gathered Friday at the...

Faison parade to commemorate farm market history

Faison will celebrate a piece of farming history on Saturday. Faison's Market Day will start at 10 a.m. with a parade down N.C. 403 and an opening ceremony at 11 a.m. downtown. The parade will begin about a mile west...

Public record

Accident An Indiana woman was taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital Friday night because of injuries sustained in an accident on Highway 70 West. According to police reports, Michele L. Chappelaw, 50, of Indiana, was attempting to cross over the east...

County works with state to help minority students

State consultants are working with Wayne school leadership teams to explore ways to raise achievement for minority students. Assistant principals, curriculum coordinators and parent facilitators from the public schools attended the all-day workshop Thursday at Goldsboro High School. Dr. Willette...

Council to consider rezonings

The Goldsboro City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Monday to consider the following items: *A public hearing regarding a request by Austin Scott to rezone the east side of Rosewood Road between Glenn Drive and Moss Hill Drive from...

Woman finds niche in helping preschoolers with special needs

WARSAW -- A woman who works with small children says many parents don't know it's abnormal to be able to speak only three words at age 3. Amanda Bostic, coordinator of preschool services for the Duplin County Schools, was one...

Friday, October 15, 2004

Game postponed due to threats

One of Wayne County’s biggest football games of the year that was scheduled for tonight has been postponed due to threats of violence, according to school officials. School officials said the threats did not come from students, but from...

Long line for flu shots

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Parking was at a premium and lines wrapped around the shopping center buildings Thursday as Southeast Family Pharmacy on N.C. 111 South administered 500 flu shots to high-risk patients. For more information see Long lines, long wait...

Long lines, long wait for flu shots

Shirley Smith of Goldsboro said she had waited outside Southeast Family Pharmacy since 10 a.m. Thursday for a flu shot. It was 2:30 p.m. before she got one. That's nothing, chimed in Mildred Carpenter. "One man arrived at 9 a.m.,"...

Residents mob one-stop voting ons opening day

More than 1,000 Wayne County residents voted Thursday, the first day of one-stop voting. "We knew it was going to be busy, but we had no idea that it was going to be that busy," Elections Director Gary Sims said....

Farmers see high crop yields and low prices

Wayne County farmers are having high yields in their row crops, but the commodity prices are down, an extension agent says. Bob Pleasants, county extension agent, said the cotton is coming in extremely well and many farmers are picking 1,000...

YMCA keeps door open but closes locker rooms

Life is back to normal at the Goldsboro Family YMCA, except the members can't take showers. At least, not at the Y. John Richards, YMCA executive director, said all of the members he has talked to have been supportive and...

Complaint filed over rally at church

A Goldsboro businessman has filed a complaint with the Internal Revenue Service over a local church that hosted a political rally this week. Dave Quick called the IRS fraud division Wednesday to complain that Mount Zion Disciples Church had allowed...

Howard to make acting debut

C. Rose Howard of Goldsboro will debut as a director Sunday for the play "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf." The play will be presented Sunday at 3:30 p.m. and Thursday at 7:30 p.m....

Public records

Sheriff: Inmate died of heart problem The death of a Wayne County Jail inmate was attributed to heart disease, officials said Thursday. Terry O'Neil Teachey, 41, of Brentwood Drive, Dudley, died Sunday. Sheriff's Capt. George Raecher said a preliminary autopsy...

Mt. Olive awards sewer, airport work

MOUNT OLIVE -- The town board held a special meeting Thursday to award contracts for two construction jobs, one for sewer and the other for work at the municipal airport. The board approved a $381,000 contract for sewer work that...

Briefly

Military Appreciation Week Nov. 1-7 Goldsboro Mayor Al King and Wayne County Commissioner Chairman J.D. Evans have proclaimed the week of Nov. 1-7 as Military Appreciation Week in Wayne County. Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is the home to over...

Thursday, October 14, 2004

Fire in sauna damages YMCA

An alert cleaning crew member was credited today with saving the Family YMCA from even more damage after a pre-dawn fire in the sauna in the men's locker room. James Hunter told the News-Argus that he smelled smoke and that...

Buyout will bring tax-revenue loss for Wayne County

Wayne County will lose about $143,000 in property taxes next fiscal year due to the tobacco buyout, a county official says. David Ward, county tax administrator, said the reduction is from property taxes on the tobacco allotment. "The loss is...

On your mark, get set ... vote!

An-NNN-nnnd we're off! Voting began today as the Wayne County Board of Elections opened its three one-stop polling places for the general elections. More than 25 people were waiting at the Wayne County Public Library for the 9 a.m. start....

Teen-ager hit by train -- injuries treated at hospital

A teen-ager walking on the railroad tracks along Royall Avenue was struck by a train engine Wednesday, a Goldsboro police report said. Xavier Raquel Coley, 16, of Central Heights Road was taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital, where he was treated...

WCC students return good deed by helping flood victims in the west

It's time to repay some good deeds. Five years ago when Hurricane Floyd struck, more than 75 Wayne Community College students affected by the floods were assisted by strangers from the North Carolina mountains. Now, students and staff at Wayne...

Want to help?

Wayne Community College's yard sale to help people affected by flooding in western North Carolina will be held Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon at the college. Donations for the yard sale are still being accepted, and large items will...

Briefly

Bowles coming Erskine Bowles, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, will be at Wilber's Barbecue at noon Friday. He will be meeting with tobacco farmers to discuss the tobacco quota buyout and other issues. The public is invited. Ghost walk...

Public records

Murder charge A 25-year-old woman was arrested Wednesday by Goldsboro police and charged with the murder of her live-in boyfriend. Naisha Lattner was accused of fatally stabbing Keith Shinholster on Sept. 19 in their home at 108 Courtyard Circle. Police,...

Writer's workshop

Wayne Christian School's annual writer's workshop will be held on Thursday, with fourth- through sixth-grade students hearing award-winning author Bill Myers. Myers, a writer and director, will conduct two workshops and lead an assembly at the school. He is also...

Jury selection under way in Lane murder trial

Jury selection resumed today in the Wayne County Superior Court trial of Eric Glenn Lane, who was accused of murdering a 5-year-old girl. A small portion of the first panel of prospective jurors was questioned Wednesday afternoon by the state...

Labor commissioner candidate pushes for improvements

Democrat Wayne Goodwin says there are two reasons why he is running for state labor commissioner: 1. The labor commissioner should be more active in economic development. Goodwin says the current one, Republican Cherie Berry, is lax about that. 2....

Former city attorney given more time to consider retirement-pay appeal

The state is giving former Goldsboro City Attorney Harrell Everett more time to decide whether to appeal a decision denying him retirement benefits. Michael Williamson, director of the state retirement system, said that Everett had asked for a few more...

Wednesday, October 13, 2004

About 5,000 residents to receive buyout

Forty residents in Wayne County will receive $500,000 or more spread out over the next 10 years due to the passing of the tobacco buyout. In all, about 5,000 Wayne County residents will be receiving payments. The uses for the...

34.9 million approved for base

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is scheduled to receive $34.9 million for construction projects in next fiscal year's defense budget. The bill approved last week by Congress appropriates $2.3 million for a new security forces squadron building for the 916th...

One-stop voting starts Thursday in Wayne

The Wayne County Board of Elections has unanimously approved the staff for the one-stop polling places, set to open Thursday. Meeting Tuesday evening, the Elections Board named senior supervisors and their assistants for the three polling places. The board tweaked...

Flu doses coming; doctor sees unncessary panic

North Carolina health officials will obtain about 70,000 doses of the flu vaccine over the next two weeks, offering some relief after the recent announcement that production at a vaccine manufacturer was shut down. State Health Director Leah Devlin said...

Lane ruled competent for trial

Eric Glenn Lane is competent to be tried for the murder of a 5-year-old girl. Judge D. Jack Hooks of Whiteville ruled today in Wayne County Superior Court that the defense had not met its burden of proof by the...

Ballree thinks teen mother just young and unaware of surrender program

MOUNT OLIVE -- Police Chief Emmett Ballree thinks a Guatemalan teen-ager charged with abandoning her newborn was just "19 and scared. She had no family here." Gloria Vasquez, 18, of Cleveland Drive in Mount Olive, was charged with murder...

'Ideas and information' exchanged at county forum

Around 80 people came to the Dillard Alumni Cultural Center Tuesday night to learn about city and county organizations. The Advocates of Wayne County organized the forum and although turnout was light compared to what was hoped, most attendees agreed...

Briefly

Boo-It Downtown Downtown Goldsboro is gearing up to celebrate Halloween with its annual Boo-It celebration set for Friday, Oct. 29. Every year downtown merchants pass out treats to little costumed trick-or-treaters who approach their store. With over 40 participating merchants,...

Director of county's exceptional children's school program named winner for southeast region

The director of Wayne County public schools' exceptional children program has been named Outstanding Director of the Year for the southeast region. The North Carolina Council of Administrators of Special Education recognized Ms. Ray during its annual conference recently in...

Public records

Golf clubs stolen A set of golf clubs, a golf bag, golf accessories and a camera were stolen Tuesday from a garage in the 100 block of Cedar Creek Drive, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. The thief...

Parker in running for state appeals court

Bill Parker, a former Goldsboro resident, is making a run this fall for the N.C. Court of Appeals. Parker is challenging Linda McGee of Hickory, a sitting judge, for her seat. The race is nonpartisan, but Parker has been endorsed...

DA waiting on results of SBI investigation

MOUNT OLIVE -- Wayne County District Attorney Branny Vickory is waiting for the State Bureau of Investigation to submit a report about alleged wrongdoing by three police officers. A probable cause hearing was set for Tuesday in Wayne District Court...

Library essay winner announced

Last month the Wayne County Public Library hosted an essay contest in honor of National Library Card Sign-Up month. Participants in the contest had to tell "Why My Library Card is the Smartest Card Ever!" Among the over 100 essays...

Missoula brings old favorite to life

Audiences of all ages will get a fresh look at an old favorite Saturday when Missoula Children's Theatre and 59 Wayne County students present "Beauty Lou and the Country Beast: A Sagebrush Fairy Tale." "Beauty Lou and the Country Beast"...

Eight vie for Supreme Court position

Though eight people are vying for the state Supreme Court Justice position, you don't see dramatic television spots or flashy campaign advertisements for the job. Instead, most of the candidates are campaigning the old-fashioned way, visiting towns and shaking hands....

Tuesday, October 12, 2004

Buyout wil bring millions to Wayne

Wayne County farmers and quota owners should be receiving around $134 million spread over 10 years thanks to the passage of the tobacco buyout, and many are pleased with the results. "I'm tickled to death, it was more than I...

Fair attendance was up, manager says

A few power outages did not darken the spirits of fairgoers during this year's 10-day celebration of Wayne County's agricultural heritage. Milton Ingram, who completed his 20th year as fair manager, said it was a very successful fair with paid...

Teen mother charged with infant's death

MOUNT OLIVE -- A Guatemalan teen-ager was in the Wayne County Jail this morning charged with murdering her newborn son. Mount Olive police initially charged Gloria Vasquez, 18, of Cleveland Drive with concealing the birth of a child. The baby...

Black caucus voter rally attracts more than 200 people

"Wake up! Speak up! Vote up!" rang out repeatedly Monday night as the Get Out To Vote Rally was held at Mt. Zion Disciples Church. Nearly 220 people turned out Monday night to hear from U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield, State...

Dry lake at Cliffs of the Neuse part of routine maintenance

SEVEN SPRINGS -- It may look a little odd, but there's no need to worry about the empty lake at the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park. It happens about once every 10 years. It's all part of a routine...

Competency hearing scheduled for man on trial for girl's murder

A competency hearing to determine if Eric Glenn Lane is fit to stand trial for the murder of a 5-year-old girl was scheduled for this afternoon in Wayne County Superior Court. The hearing had been scheduled for Monday, but Judge...

Memory Walk scheduled for Saturday

A successful conference for family and caregivers of Alzheimer's patients led to the expansion of this year's Memory Walk fund-raiser, which will be held this weekend. The first Neuse Regional Alzheimer's Memory Walk will be on Saturday morning at Herman...

Warsaw to hold 84th consecutive Veterans Day Celebration

WARSAW -- This year will be Warsaw's 84th consecutive Veterans Day Celebration. Warsaw's Veterans Day celebration has made it into the updated encyclopedias, and it will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 6, in downtown Warsaw with the Veterans...

Duplin waived tipping fees for clean up

The Duplin County commissioners waived the tipping fees for cleanup projects for the Big Sweep, and 235 residents took advantage of the deal. They delivered over 106 tons on Oct. 2, including 30 tons of garbage, 40.5 tons of construction...

Briefly

N.C. teacher of the year North Carolina's teacher of the year will speak at Mount Olive College on Oct. 25. Lizbeth Alfaro will address members of the Prospective Teacher's Association in the Hennessee Room of the Lois K. Murphy Regional...

Couple wins stereo competition loud and clear

MOUNT OLIVE -- Elva and Devon Garner bring home trophies every time they compete in "the world's loudest sport," and it's not car racing. It's competitive car-stereo playing, and for 30 events in a row, Garner has not been beat....

Public records

Drug arrests Five people were arrested Monday by the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad at a Goldsboro motel and charged with felony drug offenses. Jondre Terrell Spencer, 25, and Abraham Aaron Forte, 23, both of Crossbow Drive, Pikeville, and Terrell Mack...

Monday, October 11, 2004

New look for Goldsboro City Hall

The Goldsboro City Council has released a drawing of the new City Hall building. The new building will be constructed on the corner of Center and Mulberry streets with much of it running along the 100 block of East...

Senate expected to pass buyout

The Senate is expected today to pass the tobacco quota buyout, a deal that many farmers here have been waiting to get for years. The agreement, which has also passed the House, offers a $10.1 billion buyout of the tobacco...

Unregistered voters swamp election office

More than 1,000 Wayne County residents registered to vote or updated their registrations Friday, the last day to do so before the Nov. 2 election. The last-minute rush forced the Board of Elections to set up tables outside to serve...

Emmy the dog helps collar men for break-in

Emmy the search dog helped Wayne County sheriff's officers find two suspected criminals in the bushes. Two others were also charged with the same crime, of breaking into a pawn shop at Mar Mac. Deputy Charles Schaeffer said he saw...

Waller worked to reach remote flood victims

Seeing destroyed houses and knowing there had been a loss of life -- that was the hardest part of helping the victims of the flooding in western North Carolina, says Chuck Waller. Waller, 44, director of the Wayne County Chapter...

Second inmate in less than month dies

A 41-year-old Wayne County Jail inmate died Sunday night of what was believed to be natural causes, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. This was the second man to die in the jail in less than a month. The victim...

City Hall drawings approved

Goldsboro City Council members approved a final drawing for the new City Hall last week. The council has also decided to bid the project through a single-prime process. That means the city will pick only one contractor for the entire...

Fair winners announced

Here are the winners from Friday and Saturday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Friday Open Junior Beef Heifer Show: *Grand Champion Animal -- Michelle Batten, Selma *Reserve Champion Animal -- Rossie Blisson, Buies Creek *Showmanship (First Place) -- (Ages...

Public records

Man wounded A 31-year-old man was wounded Saturday night, and another man was arrested within minutes and charged with the shooting, according to Goldsboro police reports. The two men live at Casey's Trailer Lodge at 1700 S. Slocumb St., where...

Local digest

United Way hits 33 percent United Way's 2004 campaign has reached 33 percent of its goal. Donnie Barnes, campaign chairman, reports that $429,200 has been raised. The amount will improve 8,584 lives in Wayne County, say United Way officials. This...

Sunday, October 10, 2004

Residents remember Hurricane Hazel

Fifty years ago this week, Hazel came to Wayne County and changed us. She was the first hurricane that many people had ever experienced. She came without much warning and left quickly, but the cleanup took months. Scott Berkeley, then...

Lane trial to begin

Eric Glenn Lane will go on trial Monday in Wayne County Superior Court for the rape, kidnapping and murder of 5-year-old Precious Ebony Whitfield in 2002. The 33-year-old Lane was been held without bond since he was arrested May 21,...

New hog waste technology developed

MAURY -- A new technology would save farmers money when handling their hog waste, conserve water, and eliminate lagoons and spray fields, say its developers. Don Lloyd, general manager of Environmental Technologies LLC, said he has developed a system that...

Mount Olive woman rescues critters

MOUNT OLIVE -- Heaven is being a bird and landing in Ann Dewar's backyard. The family cat bounded onto the back deck with a bird in his mouth. Mrs. Dewar retrieved the bird and sent the cat into the house...

Teen Pregnancy Task Force forum planned

Organizers of a panel discussion on teen sexuality and pregnancy are hoping to alert elected officials about the problems faced in the community. And one says if legislating parent involvement were possible, that would be nice, too. WATCH's Teen Pregnancy...

Lighthouse to open new store

The Lighthouse of Wayne County will open its new thrift store, The Beacon of Hope, on Nov. 1. The new store will be located at 223-1 W. Walnut St. It is called The Beacon of Hope because that's exactly what...

Goldsboro Fire Dept. report

The Goldsboro Fire Department put out four major structure fires, causing an estimated $122,000 in damages, in September. The fires were among the 193 calls that the department answered, Chief Bobby Greenfield said in his monthly report. The fire that...

Faison to charge for use of tower

FAISON -- R2 Communications is closer to an agreement with the town to use its water tower for a wireless Internet antenna. Rich Kaiser had been trying for more than a year, off and on, to get an agreement with...

Warsaw EMS goes on line

WARSAW -- An emergency call came in to Duplin County's first 24-hour paid emergency medical services station around 8 a.m. Friday while the staff was celebrating its grand opening. The call was to downtown Warsaw. The Warsaw station, Station One,...

Sunday Briefly

Waynesborough events The Waynesborough Historical Village has two events for October: a barbecue fund-raiser and a ghost tour. The open house and barbecue fund-raiser will be on Oct. 16 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is $5 per plate,...

Student news

Hanan Idilbi, a native of Goldsboro, was recently awarded the Public Interest Service Scholarship at American University Washington College of Law. The Public Interest Public Service program awards full-time tuition, three-year scholarships on the basis of academic and personal accomplishments....

Rep. Joness honored

WASHINGTON - North Carolina Farm Bureau officials Friday honored Third District Congressman Walter Jones with their Friend of Farm Bureau Award. The Farm Bureau honors members of Congress for their voting records on issues critical to North Carolina farmers....

Public records

Man surrenders in fatal stabbing A 31-year-old Goldsboro man was stabbed fatally before dawn Saturday, and another man was arrested and charged with the crime, a Goldsboro police report said. The victim was identified as Rudolph Guion Jr. of 1804...

Military News

Hugo Gonzalez Navy Seaman Apprentice Hugo A. Gonzalez, nephew of Gaspar Gonzalez of Goldsboro, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Gonzalez completed a variety of training which included classroom...

District Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Samuel Edward Fraley Jr., 18, Norwayne School Road, Fremont, harassing phone call, not guilty. *Randy Sewell, 49, Evergreen Avenue, injury to personal property, dismissed. *Derrick Lamont Coley, 29, Cardinal...

Faison to hold Market Day

The town of Faison built a shed by the railroad tracks and opened a produce market to keep up with increasing demands for fruits and vegetables. In the late 1920s, more and more farmers were bringing in produce. Northern buyers...

Friday, October 8, 2004

Cotton candy folks

News-Argus/Dennis Hill Scooter Ryals and his wife, Beverly, work under clouds of cotton candy. They have been selling the sweet treat and candied apples at the Wayne County Agricultural Fair for 31 years. Although they live near Tampa, Fla.,...

Tobacco bill pleases N.C. farmers, congressmen

North Carolina congressmen and farmers celebrated the passage of a bill late Thursday that offers a $10.1 billion buyout of the tobacco quota that's expected to revive some rural parts of the state where tobacco once reigned. "It was an...

Wayne woman brings help to iguanas

Every dog has its day, but how about iguanas? Various groups advocate for unwanted cats and dogs, but one Wayne County woman has found a need to speak up for her reptilian pet. Johnna Nelson is a member of Triangle...

Hospital hit by vaccine shortage

No one is immune to the flu vaccine shortage, including Wayne Memorial Hospital, where officials say its supplier was the one shut down earlier this week. Physician's offices and programs that cater to many elderly people are also responding to...

Grants available for promoting tourism

Up to $10,000 in grants will soon be available to local nonprofit organizations that promote tourism in Wayne County. The Goldsboro Travel & Tourism Board voted Thursday to designate the money for qualifying applicants. The maximum grant per organization would...

Briefly

Black Caucus rally U.S. Rep. G. K. Butterfield and other political candidates will appear next week at a rally in Goldsboro. The Concerned Clergy called the "Get Out The Vote" rally for 7 p.m. Monday at Mt. Zion Disciples Church,...

Saturday is fair's last day

Here is the schedule for today and Saturday. Saturday is the final day of the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Today *3 p.m. -- gates open to all exhibits *4 p.m. -- Power's Great American Midway opens *6 p.m. -- Open...

Public records

Jewelry, coins stolen An estimated $11,300 in jewelry, an antique coin collection and three $1 silver certificates were stolen Thursday from a home in the 800 block of Ebenezer Church Road, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. The...

EWHS band sweeps competition

The Eastern Wayne High band won the Grand Champion title and earned seven first-place trophies during a competition last weekend in Bertie County. The event was for 1-A, 2-A and 3-A high school bands. Eastern Wayne competed against 2-A schools...

Thursday, October 7, 2004

Flu-shot clinics canceled due to national shortage

From staff and AP reports Flu shot clinics in North Carolina, including those in Wayne County, have been canceled as public health officials take steps to make sure those most vulnerable get the vaccine in the wake of a national...

Cheering at the fair

A cheerleading competition between local schools was held Wednesday night at Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. Cheerleaders from Charles B. Aycock High School won the senior high division, the Goldsboro High squad won the junior varsity division and Norwayne won the...

Charis Prep continues practices

Although a private school in Goldsboro has been closed for failing to meet inspection requirements, its basketball team continues to practice. The Wayne County public schools' athletics director, Dean Sauls, said Tuesday he went to Greenwood Middle School and found...

DOT nixes overpass for new U.S. 117

Goldsboro has decided to accept a stoplight that could cause traffic gridlock at the end of the new U.S. 117, instead of having a bridge with no highway access. The state said it would either build an "at-grade" intersection with...

Lane changes mind, decides to keep lawyers

Eric Glenn Lane has changed his mind and will keep his two court-appointed lawyers for his trial next week. Lane is accused of raping and murdering a 5-year-old girl. One of the lawyers, Edwin L. West III of Wilmington, made...

BRAC official makes no promises

A Defense Department official said Wednesday that the strong relationship between Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and its surrounding community is well known in the Pentagon. But he could not make any guarantees on whether Seymour Johnson, or any other...

Fair schedule for today and Friday

Here is the schedule for today and Friday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Today *3 p.m. -- gates open to all exhibits *3 p.m. -- Tractor Operator's Contest in the Grandstand *4 p.m. -- Power's Great American Midway opens...

Duplin's EDC gets request

Duplin County's economic development office now has someone to answer the telephone. The department's new administrative secretary, Cynthia Potter, started work Tuesday after the county commissioners voted 3-2 to hire her. The office hadn't had a secretary since December, when...

Briefly

Cover girl Here she is -- the cover girl for the Wayne County Humane Society's 2005 calendar! Trixie, a Pomeranian, is the pet of Ashley Witt of Goldsboro. Miss Witt was the highest bidder in the WCHS 2005 calendar cover...

Around Wayne

This Thursday feature is designed to assist readers in planning activities for the weekend and beyond. Coming up are: Tuesdays through Oct. 26: Foundation of Wayne Community College presents "Gods & Idiots: Introducing Homer's 'Iliad'," 7 p.m., room 210, Dogwood...

Public records

Dog finds driver A Fremont man was charged with driving while impaired and other crimes Wednesday after he wrecked his truck and ran off into the woods. Michael Kirby Powell, 30, of Memorial Church Road, Fremont, was charged with driving...

Schools schedule free parent seminar

Wayne County public schools want to equip parents to help their children succeed in school. On Friday, Oct. 22, a free seminar will be offered from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the H.V. Brown Cultural Center on Poplar Street....

Wednesday, October 6, 2004

Lottery or phone card? State challenges legality

Are those Lotto tickets advertised on at least one store marquee in Goldsboro legal in the state of North Carolina? Yes, according to a ruling by Superior Court Judge Robert Hobgood earlier this year. But the state, which wants to...

Official says BRAC will be savings

NEW BERN -- Regional leaders hoping to learn whether their town's bases will close didn't get that answer Tuesday but they did learn that no bases have been selected for closure yet. Raymond F. DuBois, deputy undersecretary of defense for...

Briefly

Man in pajamas gets day in jail An airman from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base on Tuesday told a District Court judge that he wore a Hooters T-shirt and pajamas to court because he wanted to be comfortable. Judge Les...

Mold invades Duplin courhouse

KENANSVILLE -- Mold is growing in the Duplin County Courthouse, and county employees are concerned. Even employees in the courthouse annex have found mold, and the clerk of court and register of deeds in that section of the courthouse are...

Senior Day draws young at heart to the fair

Sandra Hill celebrated her 41st wedding anniversary on Tuesday with her husband, William. She spent the day walking around smelling the food and seeing the new rides at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. Ms. Hill, 66, recalled coming to the...

Newby seeks Supreme Court seat

How does one candidate in a field of eight distinguish himself enough to make voters remember his name? Paul Newby's 8-year-old daughter had a suggestion. "She said I should run with the slogan, 'Scooby Dooby, vote for Newby,'" Newby said...

Norwayne students play their way to better relationships

When seventh-grade students at Norwayne Middle School arrived at school on Tuesday, they found a gymnasium decorated with hula hoops, balloons, Play-Doh and stuffed animals. The "Play Shop," on which Scott Ertl's book by the same name is based, was...

Fair winners named

Here are the winners from Monday and Tuesday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Vocational Competition: *Carpentry -- Brandon Creech, Charles B. Aycock High School *Health Occupations Spelling Bee -- Jessica Holloman, Spring Creek High School Salute to Senior Citizens:...

Fair schedule for today and Thursday

Here is the schedule for today and Thursday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Today *3 p.m. -- gates open to all exhibits *4 p.m. -- Power's Great American Midway opens *4 p.m. -- Grade K-2 Talent Contest in the...

Public records

Bank robbery Goldsboro police, assisted by the FBI, broadened their search today for the man who robbed The Little Bank on Tuesday morning. The robber entered the bank at 201 N. Center St., displayed a handgun, grabbed an undisclosed amount...

Chief: Inspectors say Princeton Town Hall is 'a dump'

PRINCETON -- Two Johnston County building inspectors have called the Princeton Town Hall "a dump." Police Chief Eddie Lewis said the inspectors made the comment after a tour of dilapidated buildings in Princeton. Lewis would like to have a new...

Princeton board decides how to spend $160,000

PRINCETON -- Princeton has decided how to spend $160,000 left over from sewer plant improvements. The money will allow the town to make additional repairs to its sewer and water system. C.T. Clayton Sr., the town's contract engineer from New...

Jury charges six with armed robbery

Six men have been indicted by the Wayne County Grand Jury on charges of armed robbery. Two men were indicted on nine felony counts after they were arrested June 12 in connection with a home invasion in the 3300 block...

Mount Olive to demolish houses

MOUNT OLIVE -- The town is demolishing two houses. The Mount Olive town board voted unanimously Monday night to contract with A&K Demolition and Grading to take down houses at 311 E. Pollock St. and 210 W. John St. The...

Civil process fees raised

Out-of-state agencies and legal firms will now have to pay $50, up from $5, to have court papers served by Wayne County deputies. The county commissioners voted Tuesday to raise the civil process fee immediately for non-North Carolina agencies. This...

Five receive Scout fellowships

MOUNT OLIVE -- Boy Scout President Jim Daniels presented five new James E. West Fellowships to local Scout volunteers during a recent executive board meeting in Mount Olive. James E. West was the first chief executive of the Boy Scouts...

Tuesday, October 5, 2004

Kids at the fair

News-Argus/Dennis Hill For parents -- and grandparents -- taking kids to the fair is a true act of patience. They want everything they see and don't understand it all costs money. It may require all your reasoning and child...

Little Bank robbed by armed man

An armed man wearing dark clothing, possibly camouflage, robbed the Little Bank on Center Street this morning in downtown Goldsboro. No one was hurt. Sgt. David Kelly of the Goldsboro Police Department said the man was black, wore a mask...

Wilkins named Principal of Year

Norwayne Middle School Principal Barbara Wilkins has been named the 2005 Principal of the Year for Wayne County public schools. The announcement was made during Monday night's school board meeting. An educator for more than 15 years, Mrs. Wilkins...

Eastern Wayne High School band members plead for new uniforms

School band uniforms that were tattered and held together by safety pins and paper clips were held up for the school board to see Monday night as parents and students from Eastern Wayne High School pleaded for new ones. Board...

Speed limit cut on Central Heights Road

If you're thinking about driving 45 on Central Heights Road, think again. The City Council reduced the speed limit Monday on a portion of the road from 45 to 35 mph, at the request of the state Transportation Department. The...

Up-to-date Pikeville electrical customers to get deposit refund

PIKEVILLE -- Town residents who have paid their electrical bills on time and had no returned checks for the past 24 consecutive months will receive a refund of their electrical deposit. The town board voted Monday to refund the deposits...

Tuesday and Wednesday fair schedules

Today is "Senior Citizens Day" at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. There is free admission for all people 60 years of age and above. It is also another "Bargain Day," which means there is $1 off gate admission for adults...

Duplin officials tour new farm center

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County officials got an up-close look Monday at the construction of a new agricultural building and 2,000-seat arena that they hope will generate pride and revenues for the county. Two groups of about 15 people each took...

Wesleyan college to offer new teacher program

Wesleyan College will offer another option for lateral-entry teachers to earn certification. Registration starts Wednesday for education classes being offered for teachers from kindergarten through high school. Classes begin Oct. 13. Classes will be offered in Goldsboro one night a...

Walnut Creek accepts bid on sewer plant work

The Walnut Creek Village Council voted Monday to accept T.A. Loving's bid of $1.6 million to complete the village's sewer plant project. Work on the project will include connecting to the Goldsboro sewage plant and repairing the village's aging and...

Briefly

Hazel memories sought Do you remember Hurricane Hazel? If so, the News-Argus wants to hear from you. On Oct. 15, 1954, Hazel hit Goldsboro head-on, causing millions of dollars in damage. Weather observers said winds hit 120 mph and were...

Public records

Fire deemed suspicious A home at 504 S. Audubon Ave. was damaged Monday night in a fire called suspicious by a Goldsboro fire official. A neighbor saw the fire and called 911. When firefighters arrived within four minutes, Assistant Chief...

Duplin officials seek emergency service bids

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County commissioners will seek proposals from private providers of emergency medical services. The board has been receiving complaints from residents and EMS workers that a county-owned ambulance service may be too costly. The board voted Monday...

Monday, October 4, 2004

The lights of the midway

News-Argus/Dennis Hill Fairgoers check out the games and rides along the midway at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. Other pictures and stories appear on 12A, along with tonight's schedule of fair events....

Trip to Florida brings heartache to volunteer

Although she didn't experience disaster first-hand, after seeing and hearing about all the damage the hurricanes in Florida caused, Wayne County Red Cross volunteer Sara Francis is thankful just to be able to get up every day. Ms. Francis, 56,...

Stroke victim shares the taste of gratitude -- it's chocolate

Sylvia Brady has approached the 14 months following her stroke as she would a recipe -- one ingredient at a time and without taking shortcuts. Finally, she used the other kind of recipe, too -- to the delight of some...

Seymour Johnson in '42 'not much more than a farm,' says visitor

When Maurice Snyder first came to Goldsboro, some of the best barbecue was served at En-Cee-Cue. Center Street was alive at night with servicemen hitting favorite watering holes. The "hottest" night spot was the USO Club at the corner of...

Storm causes fair traffic jam

A brief storm on Saturday night caused a traffic jam at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. Milton Ingram, fair manager, said it began raining around 8 p.m. for about 30 minutes and a large amount of fairgoers left at the...

Monday's fair schedule

Bargain Days set for the fair Today and Tuesday are "Bargain Days" at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. There will be $1 off gate admission for adults and children and it will be $10 for unlimited rides. Here is the...

Weekend winners at the Fair

Here are the winners from Friday and Saturday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Open Junior Market Lamb Show: *Grand Champion -- Hannah Woodard *Reserve Grand Champion -- Jordan Cox *Showmanship -- Age 8 and under, Emma See; age 9-13,...

Public records

Fire destroys home MOUNT OLIVE -- A man feel asleep Saturday night, his lighted cigarette ignited the couch, and the fire destroyed a double-wide mobile home at 1523 Indian Springs Road, a fire official said. The resident, Ormond Whitted Jr.,...

New Wesleyan director

Martha Burkhart-Cawley says her new position as director of Wesleyan College in Goldsboro is a homecoming of sorts. "I'm the old new director," she said. Dr. Burkhart-Cawley was in the director's position when classes moved downtown from Seymour Johnson Air...

OPINION -- Remarkable lady

"Her only paying job was as pianist for silent movies in downtown Goldsboro in the 1920s." That was reported in last Thursday's obituary of Mrs. Virginia Earp Ellis. While that might have been her only "paying job," Mrs. Ellis undoubtedly...

Commissioners agenda for Tuesday

Trick-or-treaters will make their rounds two days early if Wayne County officials have their way. The Board of Commissioners is preparing to vote Tuesday to ask that all Halloween events be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29. The commissioners...

Big Sweep nets 50 bags of trash

The 2004 Big Sweep has netted 50 bags of trash from 12 miles of Wayne County waterways so far, and more results are still coming in. Barbara Byers, local Big Sweep coordinator, said 150 volunteers cleaned 12 miles of waterways...

Sunday, October 3, 2004

William Dees remembers Community Building

William Dees Jr. can step outside his law office on William Street and see the Community Building's burned out hull looming across the street. The view is painful for Dees, who has memories of the building stretching over his lifetime....

Lane wants to fire his lawyers

The man accused of kidnapping, raping and murdering a 5-year-old girl wants to fire his lawyers and defend himself. Eric Glenn Lane filed a hand-written motion Friday in Wayne County Superior Court to dismiss his court-appointed lawyers, Edwin L. West...

Wayne Alley a fixture on WGBR

Wayne Alley may be the morning show host on WGBR radio, but for him it's all about being one of the family. "I don't try to be a radio personality," he says. "I would rather be more a part of...

Symphony tickets available

Symphony tickets go on sale Monday Tickets for the North Carolina Symphony's Holiday Pops concert go on sale Monday at the Arts Council of Wayne County. The concert will be held at the Paramount Theatre on Tuesday, Nov. 23, at...

Sunday's Wayne Fair schedule

A new attraction at this year's Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair -- Keith King's Bike Stunt Show -- highlights the events scheduled today. Sunday's schedule is as follows: *1 p.m. -- gates open to all exhibits *1 p.m. -- Power's Great...

Sunday Briefly

Voter registration The deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 2 general election is 5 p.m. Friday. People who are already registered do not need to re-register, but if they have moved since the last election, they should notify...

Public record

Teen charged A teen was arrested Friday and charged in a shooting incident the previous night, the Goldsboro Police Department reported. Investigator W.P. VanWijk arrested Shatanna Thompson, 16, of Lincoln Drive, and charged him with two felony counts: Assault with...

WCC Honor Society inducts students

Forty-four students joined Wayne Community College's honor society in its fall induction ceremony. The students accepted the invitation to join the Upsilon Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society for two-year colleges. Members represent the top 10...

Volunteer Center

Volunteer Wayne offers opportunities to serve Wayne County for all ages. This service is provided by Volunteer Wayne and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at Wayne Community College. Contact Joy Pearce at 735-5151, ext. 336, or at www.volunteersolutions.org/uwwc/volunteer...

Superior Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Randy Edward Gray, 36, Firetower Road, LaGrange, possession with intent to sell and deliver cocaine and possession of heroin, nine to 11 months. *Lonzo Conner Jr., 30, South Slocumb Street,...

Student news

Kaitlin Suzanne Thomas, 17, of Pikeville has received the Walter and Marie Williams Leadership Scholarship for her outstanding academic and extracurricular high school record. The daughter of Mark and Janet Thomas of Pikeville, Kaitlin is majoring in nursing during her...

Mount Olive Court

Mount Olive District Court These cases have been heard in Mount Olive District Court: *Demarcoe Devon Boykin, 17, U.S. 117 Alternate, Dudley, injury to real property, 30 days suspended, 12 months supervised probation, restitution to be determined, $50 fine and...

JSCC computer classes planned

KENANSVILLE -- Four additional evening computer classes have been scheduled for the James Sprunt Community College campus by the Continuing Education Department for October and November. Each class meeting will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. over a span...

100 Great nurses

Three nurses from Wayne Memorial Hospital were named 2003 recipients of the Great 100 award given to top registered nurses in the state. Connie Bandy, in health promotions; Rebecca West of the Eastern Regional Surgery Center; and Jackie Williams from...

Electronic recycling Nov. 13

Instead of throwing away that old computer, television or other electronic gadget, Keep Wayne County Beautiful is urging Wayne County residents to save them until Nov. 13. That's when KWCB will hold its next electronics recycling day in the parking...

District Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Anita Hall, 29, Lincoln Drive, harassing phone call, not guilty. *Masonic Deonta Harvey, 21, Corney Street, second-degree trespass, not guilty. *Brandon James Miller, Labonte Drive, Pikeville, domestic violence protective order...

Agenda set for council meeting

The Goldsboro City Council will meet Monday at 7 p.m. to consider the following items: * A public hearing will be held on a request from Isaac and Brenda Mozingo for a voluntary annexation. The property covers a portion of...

Friday, October 1, 2004

Fun at the fair

News-Argus/Dennis Hill Getting a kick out of a ride at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair on opening night are, from left: Camilla Castaneda, 5, Rosa Castaneda, 7, and Cindy Castaneda, 4. For more information see Riders face 'The Claw'...

Riders face 'The Claw' and other spectacles at the fair

Shanee Cain of Goldsboro stood beside her sister, Keondra, as they gazed at "The Claw." After a few minutes of trying to decide if they were going to ride, they decided to continue on their journey across the fairgrounds to...

Guard sergeant dies after vehicle hits jets

A military policeman from South Carolina died on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base on Thursday after his government vehicle hit three parked fighter jets. It is unknown why the truck hit the planes, and base officials say they are still...

Spring Creek students use math to make 'airball tower'

A building project by students in Annette McCullough's classes at Spring Creek High School travels to Greenville today, where it will be on display throughout the holiday season at the Toys R Us store. Ms. McCullough, agriculture biotechnology teacher at...

Squadron fixes Habitat home for needy family

Fighter pilots and other personnel from Seymour Johnson Air Base are working on the ground this week to make life better for Wayne County residents. The 333rd Fighter Squadron is renovating a house that was donated to Habitat for Humanity....

Wayne urged to preserve and promote its history

Wayne County residents were praised Thursday for their efforts in helping preserve the area's rich history. "The people have done so many wonderful things," said Betty McCain, former North Carolina secretary of cultural resources. She discussed the importance of historical...

Labor secretary visits Wayne to introduce ride program

Protecting children from potential accidents while on rides at North Carolina's county fairs is the goal of a new program instituted by the state Department of Labor. "North Carolina has never had a fatality involving a rider," said Cherie K....

Fair winners announced

Here are the daily winners from Thursday at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair: Educational Booth Winners: *FCCLA -- Goldsboro High School *Future Farmers of American (FAA) -- Southern Wayne High School *4-H -- Phyllis Jefferson -- Teach 4-H *Family and...

Seven Springs FD to hold annual barbecue

SEVEN SPRINGS -- The Seven Springs Fire Department will hold its annual barbecue sale and harvest auction beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday at the fire station. Dinners cost $6 a plate with a choice between pork and chicken. The plates...

Public records

Bicyclist hit by SUV Three people were injured Thursday in two recent traffic collisions Goldsboro, police reported. *A bicyclist was struck by a sport utility vehicle at 8:15 p.m. Thursday at Freeman and Greenleaf streets, police said. Shontaviya Renee Hines,...

Briefly

Fair smoking The non-smoking policy in public at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair applies only to the Power's Great American Midway employees. It does not apply to those visiting the fair. The Midway has decided on the rule for its...

Friday's and Saturday's fair schedule

The Queen of the Fair Pageant highlights Friday's schedule at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair. The schedule is as follows: *3 p.m. -- gates open to all exhibits *4 p.m. -- Power's Great American Midway opens *6 p.m. -- judging...