February 2005 archives

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Monday, February 28, 2005

Mentors

News-Argus/Phyllis Moore Boys to Men mentors, standing from left, Earl Moore, principal at Brogden Middle School; Jimmie Ford, Al Lucas, Hugh Jones and Fred Shadding. Seated from left are eighth-grade students Lenny Staton Stephens, Sean Best, Dominique Cox, Antonio...

County begins putting voter registrations on computer

Voter registration information will soon be computerized in Wayne County, thanks to a technology grant from the federal government. Gary Sims, Wayne County's elections director, said his office was starting to scan information from voter registration records into the computer....

With success behind them, retirees reach out to troubled youth

Darryl Dunn's whole life was basketball. He played often and dreamed about a future as a pro. But he also had a quick temper, he said, and lacked motivation in school. There was no doubt where he was headed: Southern...

Public records

Bingo parlor, house on fire Goldsboro Bingo World at 1809 N. Berkeley Blvd. and a house at 627 Devereaux St. were damaged Sunday in predawn fires. No one was in the bingo parlor, and the residents of the house got...

Renaming some county roads on commissioners' agenda

Wayne County Commissioners will hold a public hearing Tuesday at 9:15 to discuss the renaming of several county roads. The roads being considered for renaming are: *The western portion of North Washington Street from its intersection with Nahunta Road to...

Goldsboro Pediatrics plans to use grant to improve health of Latino children

Goldsboro Pediatrics plans to use a $10,000 grant to improve the health of Latino children. The money has come in the form of a "Community Access to Child Health" grant from the American Academy of Pediatrics. It will be used...

Walnut Creek gets serious about town hall

WALNUT CREEK -- Plans for a new Town Hall were unveiled last week for the Village Council. At the council's Feb. 23 meeting, Grim and Taylor Hobbs of Partin-Hobbs Architects explained the layout, design and landscaping for the proposed administrative...

Opinion: No-nonsense judge

My long-time friend Superior Court Judge Russell Duke and I had lunch recently at Wilber's Barbecue. Wilber joined us in swapping stories. "Rusty" Duke is a regular at Wilber's when he's holding court here. He has not been the favorite...

Sunday, February 27, 2005

City officials plan to be deliberate with plans for Paramount

A week after the Paramount Theater burned, Goldsboro officials do not know if, when or how it will be replaced. And they do not know when they'll know. "We're still in the early stages, but we're gathering some good information,"...

Some want to do more than just rebuild theater

Rebuild the Paramount Theater? That question elicited a wide range of answers from representatives of some of Wayne County's arts organizations. *Of course! Return it to its original look, but make its interior state-of-the-art: up-to-date lighting and sound, a larger...

Commissioners call for educational council

Wayne County commissioners are ready to form an educational council and set a date for a retreat between the school board and the commissioners. Spurred on by discussions earlier in the week with the school board, commissioners decided Friday to...

Barnes receives United Way's top award

Donnie Barnes received the Emil Rosenthal Award Friday at the United Way of Wayne County's annual meeting. The award is United Way's most prestigious award. Presenting the plaque was last year's award winner, Don Magoon. He said Barnes joined United...

Local officials talk, legislators listen

Concerns about the use of Homeland Security funds, school programs and relief from Medicaid spending were some of the topics county officials talked about Friday with legislative leaders. Attending the meeting were: Reggie Holley and Janet Bradberry, assistants to U.S....

Extension of Mount Olive Airport could require part of road to be closed

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive cannot extend its airport runway any farther until it decides how to deal with a road that stands in the way. Airport Manager Mike Bass told the Mount Olive Town Board during a recent work...

Swine facility bids come in high

Bids for construction of a new experimental hog farm at Cherry Research Farm came in higher than expected, officials say. Faram superintendent Eddie Pitzer said the state Department of Agriculture is trying to re-allocate money so that construction of the...

Wayne County Reads program continues

Missing out on Wayne County Reads? It's not too late to join in. The Wayne County Public Library is stocking "Big Fish" at its main library in Goldsboro and its branches. At week's end, a few copies were available. But...

Public records (02-25)

Three hurt in wrecks Three people were injured and damages were estimated at $25,100 in five recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, officers reported. *Damages were estimated at $7,500 in a three-car collision at 3:12 p.m. Thursday at North Berkeley...

Wayne County court reports

Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *William Billy Bowden Jr., 39, Edenton Road, Mount Olive, breaking and entering, 121 to 155 months (habitual felon) (appealed). *Lyndell Williams, 29, Stevens Mill Road, possession...

April 15 likely start of Arts Council membership drive

April 15 may be the kick-off date for the Arts Council of Wayne County's membership drive. A fund drive committee met prior to the Arts Council's board meeting to discuss possibilities. Treasurer Gwyn Wilson told the board on Thursday afternoon...

Alston to speak at NAACP event

Melvin "Skip" Alston, president of the N.C. chapter of the NAACP, will speak at the Goldsboro-Wayne chapter's celebration Saturday, March 5. The event, which marks the 96th anniversary of the NAACP's founding, will begin at 6 p.m. at Greenleaf Vision...

Briefly

'Peter Pan' Times for today's performance of "Peter Pan" are 2 and 7 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium at Wayne Community College. People who bought tickets for a 3 p.m. performance should attend the 2 p.m. show. Any remaining tickets will...

Friday, February 25, 2005

Highway Progress

Bobby Williams The new U.S. 117 four-lane highway, which will stretch from U.S. 301 in Wilson to U.S. 117 at Ash Street in Goldsboro, is seen in this aerial photo crossing U.S. 70. In the upper portion of the...

Hustling new industry is a quiet job

Did you hear about the Fortune 500 companies that have been in to look at Wayne County, that have toured our shell buildings and checked out the work force? No, and you probably won't. Mum's more than the word for...

Woman charged with murder

A man was found dead Thursday in a mobile home on Central Heights Road, and a woman who lived at the home was arrested by Goldsboro police and charged with murder. The identity of the victim has not been released...

Pay raise urged for Mount Olive employees

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Town of Mount Olive needs to give its employees a raise, says Town Manager Ray McDonald. McDonald told members of the town Board of Commissioners this week that he doesn't believe the town should go another...

Taylor receives Mount Olive Distinguished Service Award

MOUNT OLIVE -- Ernie Taylor became the 53rd recipient of the Mount Olive Jaycees' Distinguished Service Award Thursday night at the Southern Wayne Country Club. The award isn't the first in Taylor's family. His father, Samuel E. Taylor, was named...

"Prize patrol" surprises Wayne teachers with mini-grants

A dozen mini-grants were delivered to teachers across Wayne County on Thursday. The Business and Education Partnership, sponsored by the Wayne Charitable Partnership and the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, served as the "prize patrol," surprising recipients and presenting each...

Public records

Three hurt in wrecks Three people were injured and damages were estimated at $25,100 in five recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, officers reported. *Damages were estimated at $7,500 in a three-car collision at 3:12 p.m. Thursday at North Berkeley...

Briefly

Misplaced calls The Mount Olive town board learned during a work session Wednesday that the 13-year old telephone system at Town Hall needs replacing. People are not getting the calls that are transferred to them. It appears that they go...

Nominees sought for Unsung Heroes award

WINSTON-SALEM -- The Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation is seeking nominations for its 20th annual Nancy Susan Reynolds Awards that recognize unsung heroes who are making an impact in North Carolina communities. Each award is accompanied by a $25,000 grant...

Thursday, February 24, 2005

Hulse to leave elections board

Geoff Hulse said today that he will not remain on the Wayne County Board of Elections after his current time expires in June. Hulse, 49, is a local lawyer and has served as chairman of the elections board for almost...

Pedestrian killed on U.S. 70 West

A 38-year-old pedestrian was killed Wednesday night when he was hit by a car as he ran across U.S. 70 near the Wayne Motel, Goldsboro police said. The victim was identified as David Allen Carlin of 404 S. William St....

Few comments at City Council hearings

The Goldsboro City Council held nine public hearings Monday night, but only one had much "public" in it. Eleven people spoke at, and more than 100 attended, the hour-long hearing on the proposed unified development ordinance, the city's attempt to...

Council disruption leads to court action

Two young men who spoke obscenities after what they thought was an unfavorable decision at a Goldsboro City Council meeting were disciplined Wednesday in Wayne County District Court. Aaron Kornegay, 27, of Beston Road, LaGrange and Nathan Chapman Lean, 20,...

Public records

Victim improves A man who was shot in the chest during a fight near a night club in western Lenoir County was listed in good condition at a hospital, officials said. Defonzia Faison, 24, of Candy Place, Dudley, was wounded...

Mount Olive considers possible annexations

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mayor Ruff Huggins says town officials will approach several people who own property just outside the town limits about possibly annexing them into the town. If they won't seek voluntary annexation, Huggins told town board members at...

Briefly

Showtime today The News-Argus television guide, TV Showtime, can be found in today's paper. TV Showtime is included today because of the large size of Friday's annual Focus edition. Concert postponed The contemporary Christian music concert scheduled for Friday night...

Walnut Creek residents can have boat slips

WALNUT CREEK -- For the first time since the village was incorporated, homeowners will be allowed to build structures to protect their boats. The Village Council voted Wednesday to approve guidelines for the construction of boat slip covers. The covers...

Sheriff's office warns of home improvement scam

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office has received reports about a home-improvement scam. A southern county resident reported that he had paid $400 to have work done on his lightning rods. When he checked the work, he found that little had...

County nursing homes cited

State inspectors cited all three of Wayne County's nursing homes with deficiencies last year and required that corrective actions be taken. Brian Center of Goldsboro had a $3,050 per day civil money penalty imposed in July effective June 8 through...

Cases solved with the help of Crime Stoppers

Two drug cases and an armed robbery were solved with arrests, and a fugitive was captured after anonymous calls to Goldsboro-Wayne County Crime Stoppers. The agency's law-enforcement coordinator, Goldsboro police Sgt. Dot Ardes, told the Crime Stoppers monthly board meeting...

Wednesday, February 23, 2005

Working on the wall

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Two men with A-K Grading and Demolition of LaGrange take the top level of the back wall of the Paramount Theater down by hand this morning to make the area safe. For more information see Crew begins...

Boards agree to hold summit on schools

Members of the Goldsboro City Council, Wayne County Board of Commissioners and the Wayne County Board of Education agreed Tuesday that holding an annual education summit would help in-form the public about school is-sues. The summit, organized by a county...

Crew begins removing shaky Paramount wall

A construction crew began tearing down the rear wall of the Paramount Theater today in an effort to stabilize it. But city officials still do not know what else might have to be demolished as a result of Saturday's fire....

15 Wayne students attend N.C. School of Science and Math

Fifteen Wayne County teens are finishing their last two years of high school at the first public residential high school in the country. The N.C. School of Science and Math outside Durham opened in 1980 and became a model for...

Leaders from three counties to visit Mexico

Wayne, Duplin and Sampson counties have some of the fastest growing immigration rates in the nation, and a delegation from the three counties will participate next month in a study program on Mexican immigration. Among those going are state Reps....

Public records

More charges James Lenair Albrittain, who has been charged with robbing four women in Goldsboro and another in Fremont, now faces more charges filed by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. An 80-year-old woman in Rosewood reported that a black man...

County clean up events being planned by Keep Wayne County Beautiful

Get ready for your spring cleaning, Wayne County. Keep Wayne County Beautiful is planning several events during the Great American Cleanup, which is held March through May each year by the national Keep America Beautiful organization. The local group talked...

Briefly

Bloodmobile The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive Thursday from 2 to 6:30 p.m. at the chapter house, 600 N. George St., by appointment only by calling 735-7201. Donors will receive a coupon...

Duplin getting four-county peanut operation

WARSAW -- A receiving station for peanuts is coming to the West Park Industrial Park in Duplin county. A group of peanut growers in Duplin, Sampson, Wayne and Lenoir counties have formed Four County Peanut Services and are buying 49...

Girl Scouts holding informational meetings

The Girl Scout Council of Coastal Carolina has started holding monthly information meetings for the public. The meetings are being held at noon on the second Wednesday of each month at the council office at 108 E. Lockhaven Drive. Executive...

Former soldier channels energy into his paintings

Wilmington artist Harry Davis has been confined to a wheelchair since being struck in the spine by a bullet when he was in the Army. Although he cannot walk, his strength remains, reflected in his paintings. Davis has managed to...

Tuesday, February 22, 2005

Rebuilding Paramount?

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit The City Council is considering options for rebuilding the Paramount Theater, destroyed by a fire this past weekend. Center Street in front of the theater will remain closed util officials are confident that the front wall of...

City Council hoping to rebuild Paramount

Goldsboro officials want to rebuild the Paramount Theater, possibly even saving and restoring its front wall, if it's not prohibitively expensive. "We need to be committed to building it back on the same spot if it's at all possible," said...

Fog-related accident ties up traffic at 70 - 111 intersection

Local officials blamed weather conditions for a series of automobile accidents this morning. Fog covered the highways of Wayne County, reducing visibility for drivers. As drivers approached the intersection of N.C. 111 and U.S. 70 East, the thick gray mass...

Large crowd protests possible restrictions around base

More than 100 people packed the Goldsboro City Council's chambers for hearings Monday night, many coming to protest parts of the proposed unified development ordinance. Eleven people spoke against the ordinance, primarily how it would restrict development in high noise...

Hospital to require up-front payment of insured patients' portion of bill

The signs in doctors' offices that say "Payment is due at time of service" will soon be appearing at Wayne Memorial Hospital. Starting today, "co-payments" will be collected from insured patients upon arrival for any procedures scheduled in advance. Co-payments...

Stagestruck tickets on sale now

Stagestruck is selling tickets for "Peter Pan" beginning today at the Arts Council. Tickets, which cost $12, may also be purchased at the door. Performances will be Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 1 and 7 p.m., and...

Public records

Mount Olive man is fatally shot SEVEN SPRINGS -- A 22-year-old Mount Olive man was fatally shot early Sunday, and another man was listed today in critical condition at a hospital after a fight near a Lenoir County nightclub. The...

Pikeville workshop identifies priorities for growth and development

The town of Pikeville held a workshop for growth and development Monday evening at the town hall. Mayor Herb Sieger presided over the meeting, which was intended to help identify priorities for the town's leaders. A presentation by Judy Hills...

Marathoner raises money for children's camps

SAVANNAH, Ga. -- Becky Johnson laced up her sneakers two weeks ago in an effort to send less fortunate children to summer camp. Johnson, a student at Wayne Community College, spends her summers working at Camp Seafarer in Arapahoe. Two...

Duplin commissioners authorize county manager to negotiate a solid waste contract

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners authorized county Manager Fred Eldridge to negotiate with any landfill owner or other local government to haul solid waste for the county. They also agreed to look for an engineer to design...

Duplin officials raise fees, charge for fire inspections

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County residents will soon be paying fees for fire inspections that used to be free. The Duplin County Board of Commissioners agreed Monday to adopt a fee schedule for the Emergency Services Department's fire inspections. It will...

Briefly

Black troops honored An organization that honors black soldiers who fought in the Civil War will meet in Kinston on March 4-6 for a symposium. The U.S. Colored Troops Institute will meet at the Hampton Inn. The event will feature...

Local man to appear in episode of 'JAG' Friday

Brian Britt, a Goldsboro High School graduate, will appear in an episode of the TV drama "JAG" on Friday night at 9 on CBS. Britt, an actor who lives in Los Angeles, has appeared on several TV shows, including "The...

More Red Cross Heroes sought

The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross is looking for more heroes again this year. Heroes are people who raise at least $1,000 during the annual Heroes Campaign. The campaign will be held next month with a kickoff...

Monday, February 21, 2005

After the fire

Bobby Williams The ruins of the theater can be seen from the roof of the Waynesborough House across the street. For more information see Chief says entire block was in danger....

Chief says entire block was in danger

"We had the potential to lose the whole block," Fire Chief Bobby Greenfield said today. That's how he summed up Saturday's predawn fire that destroyed the 123-year-old Paramount Theater at 139 S. Center St. and threatened adjoining businesses. "You have...

Fairy dust survives devastating fire

In the musical "Peter Pan," fairy dust creates a magic that allows children to fly. In the Stagestruck warehouse, which, like the Paramount Theatre, was destroyed by fire Saturday morning, was a hole in the wall. Just inside that hole...

County seeks releif from Medicaid expense

The Wayne County commissioners are asking for relief. They want the General Assembly to remove some of the burden of Medicaid expenses. The county pays $6.7 million, or eight percent of its budget, for the treatment of people who are...

Campaigns for Kids helps find families for older children

"Love is like the tide; it always returns," Amanda reads from a spiral notebook filled with her poems and one-liners. The pretty teenager is at St. Paul United Methodist Church on Friday to be interviewed and photographed by a team...

Opinion: Paramount memories

The burning of Paramount Theatre in Downtown Goldsboro brought more tears than those shed by the smoke-filled eyes of our good firefighters who tried to save the historic structure. Memories of many were recorded in Sunday's News-Argus. And surely tears...

Man shot to death at Waffle House

A 33-year-old Goldsboro man was fatally shot Saturday, and Goldsboro police are looking for a suspect. The victim was identified as Lashonnie Maurice Howell of 1902-B John Court. Howell was shot several times at about 3:30 a.m. in the parking...

Public records

Burglary A Goldsboro woman returned home Sunday morning from work and found that her living room and dining room furniture had been stolen, according to a Goldsboro police report. Lisa Suggs of West Lockhaven Drive said a sectional sofa, a...

Street closing would add to park land

The city of Goldsboro could gain some additional park land near Stoney Creek if it closes three road sections as proposed. The city may expand its recreational area at Stoney Creek, off Ash Street, with land acquired during its flood-buyout...

Best Station community celebrates its unique history

Residents and former residents of the Best Station community gathered Saturday to celebrate their unique history. Although only a couple of dozen people call the eastern Wayne County crossroads community home, about 80 attended the festivities. A ceremony was held...

Sunday, February 20, 2005

Historic theater destroyed; downtown Goldsboro loses Paramount in early morning fire

The Paramount Theater, a downtown Goldsboro landmark for more than a century, was destroyed Saturday in a predawn fire. Authorities said they could not determine a cause of the blaze. "This is sickening," Mayor Al King said as he watched...

Impact felt throughout community

Peggy Wingate, artistic director of the Goldsboro Ballet, stood across the street from the Paramount Theater late Saturday morning, holding her 3-year-old grandson, Thomas Allen, and looking at the damage caused by a fire hours earlier. Smoke could still be...

Three-story structure built by Weil family in 1882

Built by the Weil family in 1882, the Paramount Theater began its existence as The Armory Building. At three stories high, it was the tallest building downtown and, for years, was the location of many businesses. The home guard practiced...

'Big Fish' gives author his big break

CARRBORO „ Time after time, Daniel Wallace would mail off his novels. Just as diligently, publishers would send them back. The rejections never deterred Wallace. He still wrote nearly every day for 13 years, completing books and starting new ones....

Council hearing Monday on development rules

The Goldsboro City Council will hear comments Monday about an overhaul of its land-use and zoning rules, which has been in the works for five years. The hearing on the "Unified Development Or-dinance" is set for 7 p.m. in the...

Goldsboro considering closing three streets

The city of Goldsboro is considering permanently closing three road sections, due to flooding problems. The road sections are East Mulberry Street, from Randolph Street to Stoney Creek Lane; Stoney Creek Lane, from Walnut Street to Ash Street; and North...

Reform group: Use tax checkoff to improve judicial elections

Want cleaner, fairer elections? A group working for reform says you need to check out your N.C. tax form and then check it. Democracy North Carolina has been campaigning across the state this month, encouraging state residents to mark "yes"...

Wayne Health Department provides Web site for teens

Wayne County teens now have their own Web site, courtesy of the Health Department. The computer site for and about Wayne County youths goes "live" today and can be found at the address www.WayneTeens.com The Web site has been in...

Rotary clubs to celebrate organization's centennial

Members of several area Rotary clubs will gather together Wednesday to celebrate the organization's 100th anniversary. The Goldsboro, Three Eagles, Mount Olive, Fremont and Snow Hill clubs will hold a social at 6:30 p.m. at the Arts Council of Wayne...

Public record

Robbed at knifepoint A Stantonsburg woman said a man she does not know robbed her at knifepoint on Red Hill Road in Eureka and tried to sexually assault her. Amy Jenette Whaley West told Wayne County Sheriff's investigators that she...

Banquet to honor law enforcement officers

Current and former law enforcement officers will be honored at a banquet Saturday evening, March 12, at the Wayne Center in Goldsboro. Organizers plan to present the Order of the Longleaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor, to three individuals...

Doctor to lead incontinence seminar

Women needlessly suffer from incontinence out of embarrassment, lack of knowledge or lack of awareness of treatment options, says one local doctor. He hopes a free seminar on the subject this week will change some of that. The brief meeting...

Duplin commissioner predicts lawsuit on landfill issue

Duplin County faces a court battle no matter what it does about a private company's offer to build a regional landfill between Calypso and Faison, says one county commissioner. The issue is on the commissioners' agenda for 1:30 p.m. Monday...

Saturday, February 19, 2005

Paramount Theater fire

The Paramount Theater, a downtown Goldsboro landmark for more than a century, was destroyed Saturday in a pre-dawn fire. The cause of the fire remains undetermined. Fire Chief Bobby Greenfield said the building was too unsafe for investigators to...

Historic theater destroyed

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber The Paramount theater in downtown Goldsboro caught fire at about 4:00 a.m. Saturday morning. This picture was taken at 6:40 a.m. as firefighters attempt to control the blaze. For the story and more pictures please see Paramount...

Friday, February 18, 2005

Lane trial starts May 23

Eric Glenn Lane will go on trial for the murder of 5-year-old Precious Whitfield on May 23. The trial date was set Thursday by Judge Gary Trawick of Burgaw during a 30-minute hearing with prosecutors and standby defense lawyers...

Eureka residents warned about giving up charter

Eureka residents held a meeting at the fire department Thursday night to discuss a movement by some to dissolve the town's charter. State Rep. Louis Pate spoke with about 40 people who attended. He was joined by John Phelps, a...

Man accused of robbing elderly woman arrested

A man accused of assaulting and robbing elderly Wayne County women as they came home from shopping was arrested Thursday by Goldsboro police after a crosstown chase. James Lenair Albrittain, 29, of Oliver Street in Mount Olive was charged by...

Rouse, Arnstsen win state press awards

CHAPEL HILL -- Two members of the Goldsboro News-Argus staff, David Rouse and Barbara Arntsen, were honored Thursday night by the North Carolina Press Asso-ciation. The association presented its annual awards for excellence in journalism at the Winter Newspaper Institute,...

Lawsuit over faulty construction to go to trial on May 30

It took two years, and an appeal to the State Court of Appeals, but a Wayne County woman who says she was not treated fairly by the company that built her home will soon get her day in court. On...

Public records

Driver sentenced in school bus accident A driver has been sentenced in Wayne County District Court to 45 days in jail after a collision last year with a school bus in Goldsboro. Nine people suffered minor injuries in the wreck....

Briefly

Jurors should report Jurors summoned Monday for Wayne County Superior Court should report as scheduled at 9 a.m., a court official says. While Monday is a federal holiday for Presidents Day, it is not a state or local holiday, said...

Grant aimed at keeping students in school

Wayne Community College has been chosen to participate in a pilot project to provide emergency aid to students who might otherwise drop out of school. The college will receive $20,000 from Scholarship America over the next three years to implement...

County health department conducting salary survey

The Wayne County Health Department is conducting a salary survey to better position itself in getting applicants and retaining employees. Vicky Hill, administrative officer with the Health Department, said the information will be helpful in making preparations for next year's...

Black art exhibit to open Monday

In celebration of Black History Month, the African American Arts Advocates (4A) and Rebuilding Broken Places CDC will sponsor an exhibit. Featured will be art done by local black artists and from collections that have an African heritage. The display...

Thursday, February 17, 2005

Grant to buy land near base gets tentative OK

Goldsboro and Wayne County may receive almost $6.5 million to buy land south of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's runway. The N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund tentatively approved the grant at its meeting Monday in Asheboro. The trustees will...

Kerr asks that parole be denied

State Sen. John H. Kerr has written the state Post Release Supervision and Parole Commission asking that convicted murderer Garfield Noah Prevette not be paroled. Kerr told Commissioner Charles Mann that "a number of people in the Goldsboro community" had...

Fire damage at Family Y is repaired

The men's locker room in the Goldsboro Family Y reopened Tuesday morning -- four months and a day after a fire damaged the facility. Kriquette Davis, the Family Y's associate executive director, said the general contractor for the repairs, R.N....

Four families to get better homes through block grant

Four Wayne County families living in substandard housing may soon live in a better home, if the county gets the federal funding it expects. The county is eligible for $400,000 in scattered-site housing grants, once it finds participants that meet...

Public records

Brothers charged Three teen-aged brothers, including twins, were arrested Wednesday by the Wayne County sheriff's detectives and charged with two felony offenses in a home invasion and aggravated assault. Josh Scott Lane, 19, Preston Lee Lane, 17, and Justin Allen...

'Jump Rope for Heart' raises more than 50,000 dollars for Heart Association

Students at area elementary schools have raised more than $50,000 for the American Heart Association this month by jumping rope. "Jump Rope for Heart" raises money through sponsors who donate money based on the number of students who participate. The...

Beautification project at Mount Olive Middle to honor late school officer

MOUNT OLIVE -- Technology students at Mount Olive Middle School have undertaken a beautification project to honor the memory of a beloved teacher killed a year ago in a car accident. There already is a bench in front of the...

Briefly

New company formed A new company formed from 11 Deans Specialty Foods plants, including the one in Faison, is expected to have sales of more than $700 million this year. Sam Reed, former president and CEO of Keebler, will...

Clarification

An earlier story reported that a man was arrested on charges of resisting arrest and delivering cocaine on James White Court. A resident of that street wanted it clarified that he was arrested there only because he was chased there...

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

Baby Owl

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Hootie, a barred owl found Saturday, has found a home with wildlife rehabilitator Judith Wilt. For more information see Barred owl finds shelter with wildlife expert....

Vote on base zoning may be delayed

The Wayne County commissioners are considering postponing a vote on a proposed zoning ordinance around Seymour Johnson Air Force Base until next year. Commissioner Atlas Price also suggested extending the building moratorium in the area around the base until January...

Eastern Wayne chosen as model school

Eastern Wayne High School has been chosen one of six model schools in the nation making progress in closing achievement gaps, particularly among students of different racial and economic lines. The Education Trust, a national non-profit research and advocacy organization...

Early voting will gain in popularity, says state election board official

Election precincts will become less important and more voters will cast ballots ahead of Election Day, says the executive director of the state Board of Elections. Gary Bartlett spoke Tuesday to the Goldsboro Rotary Club. Bartlett said that changes in...

New EDC worker to provide help for existing firms

The Wayne County Commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved the hiring of an additional employee for the county Economic Development Commission. The new employee will work with existing businesses and industries in Wayne County. The board has not yet agreed on...

Barred owl finds shelter with wildlife expert

Hootie, a barred owl found off Corbit Road in the Hood Swamp area Saturday, has found a home with state and federally licensed wildlife rehabilitator Judith Wilt. Named by the people who found it, Hootie, whose gender is unknown, is...

Dangerous dogs getting out of hand in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- Town Manager Ray McDonald says he will ask the Mount Olive Town Board to toughen the town's dog ordinance, and he's warning the public that the current ordinance will be more strictly enforced. McDonald said the town...

Briefly

Eureka meeting moved The Eureka citizens meeting scheduled for Thursday at 6:30 p.m. will be held at the Eureka Fire Department. Residents are invited to discuss the petition to dissolve the town's charter. State Rep. Louis Pate Jr. from District...

Public records

SUV hits building A car washer on Tuesday mistakenly pushed the gas pedal, instead of the brake, on a specially equipped car, resulting in about $18,000 in damages, a Goldsboro police report said. The car struck a sport utility vehicle...

Fremont financial condition improving, auditor says

FREMONT -- Fremont is taking the right steps to get back on a sound economic footing, says the town's financial auditor. Ray Pittman of Pittard, Perry and Crone made the comment Tuesday night during his annual report to the town...

Aviation critical to economic development, says Perdue

KENANSVILLE -- Aviation is critical to economic development in eastern North Carolina, says Lt. Governor Beverly Perdue. Ms. Perdue spoke Tuesday at the Duplin County Airport. The airport was the site of a meeting of the state Aeronautics Council. The...

Clarification

A headline in Tuesday's News-Argus said parents at North Duplin High School were upset by a "closing plan." No plan to close the school has been adopted. The closing is mentioned in the proposed plans that are under consideration by...

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Livestock producers recognized

The Wayne County Livestock Development Association reflected on the past year and looked ahead to 2005 at its annual meeting Monday night. The outstanding livestock producer was recognized, service awards were presented and five students received college scholarships. Benny Rice...

North Duplin parents upset by closing plan

CALYPSO -- Parents in the North Duplin High School attendance area are concerned about plans to close the school. The North Duplin High School Parent Advisory Council met recently to discuss three school building plans being considered by the county...

District Court fight

"It was a recipe for disaster," said District Attorney Branny Vickory. On Tuesday afternoon, a man had come to Wayne County District Court to court to answer two charges -- a harassing phone call and communicating threats -- that were...

Public records

Four hurt in wrecks Four people were injured and damages were estimated at $30,400 in five recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, officers reported. *Three people were injured and damages were estimated at $5,000 in a two-vehicle collision at 5:47...

Wayne among counties chosen in colorectal cancer testing pilot program

Wayne County is one of 12 sites that will test the American Cancer Society's colorectal cancer screening program during this year's Relay for Life on May 13-14. Phillip Gregory, the vice president for mission delivery for the state organization ,...

College scholarship recipients honored

The Foundation of Wayne Community College recognized its scholarship recipients and donors in its annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony at the college recently. More than 230 scholarship recipients during the fall, 2004 and spring 2005 semester had the opportunity to meet...

State to remove abandoned tanks at Seven Springs

SEVEN SPRINGS -- The state Department of Transportation plans to remove two abandoned underground storage tanks from the state's right-of-way on Main Street, and there may be more. The state Department of Transportation's environmental inspectors found contaminated soil at the...

Briefly

Name change FAISON -- The Dean's Specialty Foods pickle plant will join 10 other specialty food division plants of the Deans Foods Corporation in forming a new publicly-traded private label. No official name for the label has been mentioned. A...

School menus

The following are menus for Wayne County Public Schools for the week of Feb. 21-25. Monday -- Teacher Workday. Tuesday -- Breakfast: Mini pancakes with syrup. Lunch: Hot dog with chili, tuna salad sandwich, oven fries, baked beans, chilled mixed...

AIDs/HIV informational meeting attracts 200

More than 200 people turned out last Thursday for more information on HIV/AIDS and its impact in Wayne County. Attendees at the "Willing to Touch" event, held at Greenleaf Vision of Faith Community Center, heard Jeri Barnes and Alton Vinson...

New Duplin Correctional Center superintendent named

KENANSVILLE -- Travis Outlaw, a 30-year veteran in the NC Department of Correction, has been named superintendent of the Duplin Correctional Center. As superintendent for the minimum custody unit near Kenansville, Outlaw will oversee the management of all of the...

Monday, February 14, 2005

Hearing Tuesday at 6 p.m. on development around base

Property owners around Seymour Johnson Air Force Base can voice their opinions Tuesday evening on proposed changes in how they can develop their land. A public hearing on the issue will be held at 6 p.m. in Courtroom No. 1...

Mount Olive man killed in Duplin wreck

KENANSVILLE -- A Mount Olive man was killed Sunday morning when his pickup truck overturned on a hunting reserve in northern Duplin County. Benjamin Riggle, 27, died about 9:25 a.m., when his truck flipped after hitting a deep rut on...

Sports memorabilia auction set for March 8

The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold its second annual sports memorabilia auction March 8 at Lane Tree Country Club. Proceeds from the auction will be used to benefit the Red Cross. The Outback Steakhouse is...

Butterfield questions need for Social Security changes

The Social Security system isn't in crisis or even in need of major repairs, U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield said Saturday night in Goldsboro. "You've heard a lot of talk every day recently about the so-called Social Security crisis," Butterfield said....

Dole, state representatives meet with BRAC deputy director

WASHINGTON -- A delegation of North Carolina officials were to meet today with Phil Grone, the deputy undersecretary of Defense for installations and environment. Grone oversees the Base Realignment and Closure process and is "a key decision-maker," according to Sen....

Public records

Five injured in accidents Five people were injured and damages were estimated at $39,600 in seven recent traffic collisions in Wayne County, lawmen reported. *Both drivers were injured and damages were estimated at $10,000 in a two-car collision at 11:30...

More than half-a-million in grants awarded to Wayne County

Wayne County has been approved for two state grants, totaling $650,000, to help with sewer and water projects. Sen. John Kerr said the formal announcements will be made soon by the North Carolina Rural Economic Center. Wayne will get $350,000...

Opinion - The unveiling

It was back in the late 1950s. I was taking part in a managing editor's seminar at Columbia University in New York. One afternoon, the focus shifted to the most memorable stories participants had covered. One of the fellows had...

Sunday, February 13, 2005

Police officer back from Iraq

MOUNT OLIVE -- Brandon Griffin, a 25-year-old Mount Olive police officer, hardly had time to kiss his bride last Valentine's Day. Ten days after his wedding to the former Lisa Butler, Griffin and his National Guard unit were deployed to...

Pat Cooper welcomed home

When Master Sgt. Pat Cooper was deployed to Aludeid Air Base in Quatar in September, his neighbors in the Bridle Path community of Elroy decided to "tie a yellow ribbon" around a dogwood tree so that those who passed would...

Butterfield says there are still challenges

When G.K. Butterfield was a high school student in Wilson, he competed with athletes at Dillard High School, then Goldsboro's segregated black high school. He returned Saturday night as one of Wayne County's representatives in the U.S. House, and blacks...

Students with obstacles honored

A kindergarten student who went through a kidney transplant is again on a donor list. A young boy whose family moved here speaking no English, suffered burns that left him with disfiguring scars. Still another, who moved from foster care...

Civitans hold Clergy Day

Mayor Al King joined Goldsboro Civitans in honoring area pastors at the club's annual Clergy Appreciation Day Luncheon on Friday. King stopped by Ryan's Family Steakhouse where area ministers were being treated to a free lunch. He thanked the Civitans...

Belfast Academy holds open mike night

Doctors told Brandie Barrett's mother she would never be able to have children. But in 1987, she gave birth to Brandie, her only child she always called a "blessing to the world." Thursday night, Brandie read a tribute to the...

A Review: Acrobats please audience

They did it again! Members of the Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats gave an exciting performance that brought frequent applause and cheers from an audience of about 700 people Friday night. The artists' presentation was the last one in a successful...

WCC Apollo Show

Student talent will be showcased in the 15th annual "Apollo Show" at Wayne Community College on Thursday, Feb. 24. The public is invited to attend the show at 2 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium on the college's main campus in Goldsboro....

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 news

These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Terry Lassiter, 45, Quiet Drive, Dudley, misdemeanor assault by pointing a gun, not guilty. *Fabiel Favela Betancourt, 30, Randall Lane, attempt to traffic in cocaine and conspiracy to sell and...

Public record

Accidents Five property damage accidents were investigated by police, with no injuries requiring transport to the hospital. *At 1:50 p.m. on Friday, a vehicle driven by Rex Allen Williams, 43, Durham Lake Road, Dudley, was damaged after a one-car accident...

Calypso to get new streets

CALYPSO -- The town is adding two new streets. One is a dirt road and one is a paved road that had not been kept up by the state. The streets will be Calypso Trailer Court Lane and about 300...

Mock wedding planned

MOUNT OLIVE -- The bride will wear red and white on Valentine's Day. Nancy Mauney will play the bride and Barry Giddings will play the groom in a mock wedding at 3 p.m. on Monday in the dining room of...

Festival awards

Mount Olive Chamber officials are in South Carolina this weekend with five nominations for festival awards. Patti O'Donoghue, president of the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce, is attending the annual meeting of the N.C. Association of Festivals & Events...

District Court news

These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Rebecca Perry, 23, Harrison Drive, assault, not guilty. *Peggy Ann Rafuse, U.S. 70 East, LaGrange, assault, not guilty. *Tuwanna C. Draper, 34, Herman Lane Road, Stantonsburg, driving while license revoked,...

Democrat precinct meetings set

The Wayne County Democratic Party has announced the following schedule for precinct meetings at its headquarters at 138 N. Center St.: Tuesday, Feb. 22 -- No. 2 (Eureka Methodist Church), 6 p.m.; No. 3 (Little River), 6:30 p.m.; No. 8...

Briefly for Sunday

Trivia contest The News-Argus is once again holding a trivia contest in connection with Wayne County Reads. Answers can be found in Daniel Wallace's "Big Fish," this year's selection for the countywide reading program. Winners will be drawn from all...

Friday, February 11, 2005

Coming down

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Demolition crews are razing the former Nichols Discount City department store, located at 2102 Wayne Memorial Drive. The owners, BAP Partners Inc., plan to redevelop or sell the 12-acre site once it's cleaned up. The Nichols store...

Branford Marsalis tells students abut his musical journey

Marcus Croom, the band director at Goldsboro High School, wants his students to be open-minded about all types of music and, in turn, to develop a passion for it. When he met world-renowned saxophonist Branford Marsalis in a hotel elevator...

Meeting set for Feb. 17 on Eureka's town charter

In Greek, "Eureka" means "I found it!" But if some of the town's residents have their way, you won't be able to find Eureka at all. Luther and Lillie Mozingo are among the little northern Wayne County town's residents who...

Cancer Society holds Realy for Life kickoff

Olivia Whaley had been a healthy person her entire life. But one day all that changed when her surgeon quietly uttered three little words -- "It is cancer." Mrs. Whaley described her experience with breast cancer at the kickoff celebration...

School fire was smoke from exhaust fan

Classes at Grantham School were interrupted briefly on Thursday after smoke was discovered near the school's band room. Smoke was discovered in a bathroom around lunchtime and students were evacuated from the building while Grantham Fire Department investigated. There was...

Public records

Fire forces evacuation of retirement home MOUNT OLIVE -- The residents and staff at Glenn Care Retirement Village at 600 Smith Chapel Road were evacuated Thursday night because of fire started by a cigarette, officials said. The fire was put...

Briefly

Hodges on 'Law and Order' Goldsboro native Poncho Hodges will appear on "Law and Order" Wednesday night at 10 on NBC. He will play the character Silas Inwood, a big-time NBA basketball player accused of murder. This is his first...

Thursday, February 10, 2005

Cheers erupt as airmen arrive on base

Hundreds of family members and friends erupted in cheers as four buses carrying about 300 airmen arrived at the community center at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base on Wednesday. The airmen of the 4th Fighter Wing arrived home shortly before...

Jones to take closer look at prison closing proposal

Third District Congressman Walter B. Jones Jr. says he is looking carefully at the government's proposal to close the Federal Prison Camp at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The closing is recommended by the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a...

Public records

Eight charges A 42-year-old man from Georgia was arrested Wednesday night by Goldsboro police and charged with seven felony and one misdemeanor offenses. Danny Ray Roberts of Kathleen, Ga., was charged with two felony counts of possession of stolen goods,...

County planning board asks that bridge over the Little River be named after highway patrolman

The Wayne County Planning Board is asking that the new bridge over the Little River, on Highway 581 North, be named in memory of Highway Patrol Trooper John R. Deans. That request is being forwarded to the county commissioners. Desmond...

Briefly

Give kids a smile On Friday, Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., students from Northwest Elementary School and Rosewood Elementary School will be participating in "Give Kids a Smile Day" at Wayne Community College. Wayne County Public Schools,...

Seymour wings get a facelift, courtesy of airmen

For 46 years, the sculpted Air Force wings off the traffic circle at the intersection of Center and Ash s have proudly welcomed people to "Goldsboro, N.C., Home of Seymour Johnson A.F.B." Today, residents can be a little prouder --...

Wednesday, February 9, 2005

Candlelight vigil

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Verna Best speaks at the candlelight vigil. On the table are 587 candles, representing the children who have been abused and neglected in Wayne County during 2003 and 2004. For more information see Candlelight vigil held for...

Bill would give district judge power to appoint county magistrates

State Sen. John Kerr has introduced legislation that would eliminate the role of Superior Court judges in the appointment of magistrates. Wayne County Superior Court Judge Jerry Braswell has been criticized recently by some people in and out of...

Lack of land-use plan bemoaned

Wayne County Planning Board members struggled Tuesday with balancing public safety concerns and a developer's right to protect his property from undesirable encroachment. At the heart of the matter, they said, is the lack of a county-wide land use plan....

Candlelight vigil held for Wayne's abused children

Five hundred and eighty-seven small candles burned at Berkeley Mall on Tuesday night -- one for each of the Wayne County children that officials say have had their lives dimmed by abuse and neglect. Larger candles surrounded the rows of...

City won't pay 30-year-old bill for road

Revenge may be a dish best served cold, but a technicality will keep Albert Spruill from dishing it out at all. Spruill, a Cooke Street resident, was angered when the city demolished a condemned house that Spruill had owned on...

Killer of Goldsboro woman could be paroled this year

A man who was sentenced to life plus 40 years in 1984 for the murder and kidnapping of a Goldsboro woman could be paroled this summer, according to the N.C. Department of Correction. Garfield Noah Prevette, now 50, was...

Eureka businesses destroyed in early-morning fire

EUREKA -- An auto repair shop was destroyed today in a fire that may have been caused by an electrical short, officials said. The Martin Brothers shop at 105 W. Martin St. was "burned to the ground," Eureka Fire Chief...

Briefly

'Peter Pan' tickets Tickets for the Stagestruck production of "Peter Pan" are on sale at the Arts Council of Wayne County. Costs range from $8 through $15. Performance dates are Thursday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m.;...

Mount Olive woman pleads guilty to murder

KENANSVILLE -- A Mount Olive woman pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Tuesday in Duplin Superior Court. Tammy Sue Wilt, 39, was on trial for the January 2003 shooting death of Phil Britt, the man with whom she had been living...

'Big Fish' opens Wayne County Reads

Two men and their dogs were on their way to hunt ducks. One, Lester Gray, was feeling proud of his dog and declared, "Trooper is probably the best duck dog in the country!" "Trooper isn't even the best duck dog...

Public records

Shop fire An electrical malfunction was blamed Tuesday for a predawn fire that caused about $24,000 in damages at Ash Street Automotive at 602 E. Ash St., a Goldsboro fire official said. Assistant Fire Chief Ray Boyette said the fire...

Princeton police chief outlines plan to assist senior citizens, disabled

PRINCETON -- Princeton Police Chief Eddie Lewis has a plan to help senior citizens who may become disabled. Lewis told the town board that a Meals-on-Wheels volunteer had tried to deliver lunch to an elderly woman. When the volunteer knocked...

Tuesday, February 8, 2005

Good day for a wash job

Bobby Williams photo Faison firemen took advantage of the mild temperatures Monday to wash down one of the department's trucks. Chief Glenn Jernigan, left, helps Kevin Merritt and Lee Kennedy clean up. The temperature reached 64 degrees on Monday....

Air base prison would close under proposal

The Federal Prison Camp at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base would be closed under a cost-cutting program developed by the federal Bureau of Prisons. The program would have to clear Congress before it would become effective. The plan also includes...

Boling back in operation under new management

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Boling Furniture Co. has reopened, with 16 people currently at work at the plant. Doug Wiggins, who recently bought Boling, said he plans to have 50 employees at work by April. Boling shut down before Christmas,...

City employees get 2.5 percent pay raise

The Goldsboro City Council agreed Monday night to give city employees a 2.5-percent raise effective immediately. The cost-of-living raise will mean a $426 annual increase for an entry-level custodian, the city's lowest paid job. Raises for department heads will be...

Walk of Fame proposed for downtown

Wayne Community College officials asked the Goldsboro City Council on Monday night for permission to build a Hollywood-style "Walk of Fame" downtown. If the council approves, stars would installed next month in the sidewalk outside the Paramount Theater on Center...

Twenty Wayne teachers received national certification

The Wayne County Board of Education recognized 20 teachers Monday night who have been certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. The teachers were among 1,675 newly-certified teachers and counselors across North Carolina. North Carolina has more than...

Four men indicted on murder charges

Four men were indicted Monday by the Wayne County Grand Jury on first-degree murder charges, a former school teacher was indicted on Internet sex charges and a former magistrate was indicted on a cocaine possession charge. Two men -- Christopher...

Wal-Mart returns to normal hours

Work on Wal-Mart's electrical system took longer than expected, forcing the store to be closed for more than 13 hours on Monday. On Sunday, signs were posted on the store's entrance doors letting customers know that the Goldsboro store, which...

Rebuilding Broken Places' initiates AIDS prevention campaign

Rebuilding Broken Places CDC is launching a campaign to prevent HIV/AIDS and to encourage churches to reach out to people who are infected. The campaign draws its name, "Willing To Touch," from Luke 5:12-13, which recounts Jesus' healing of a...

Public records

Drivers hurt Both drivers were injured and damages were estimated at $5,500 in a two-vehicle collision at 8:18 p.m. Monday on N.C. 111, about four-tenths of a mile south of U.S. 70, Goldsboro police said. Gerald Bond Wilson, 27, of...

Princeton board welcomes new doctor

PRINCETON -- Although Princeton's debt increased by 77 percent and its fund balance dropped by 12 percent, the town was still in good financial condition. The town's auditor, C. Keith Peedin of Smithfield, presented his annual report during Tuesday night's...

Plans for new park in Pikeville proceeding

The Pikeville Town Board agreed Monday night to proceed with advertising for bids for construction of the town's new park on Northwest Railroad Street. Town officials said they hope to start work on the park within about six weeks. The...

Eureka meets to discuss sewer problems

The Eureka Town Board of Commissioner met Monday night to discuss the town's sewer line problems. The town's sewer rates have increased in recent months, and the commissioners considered ways to reverse the trend. Commissioner Bobby Gooding suggested smoke-testing or...

Commissioners meet in closed session to discuss economic development

The Wayne County Commissioners met for an hour in closed session Monday to discuss the location or expansion of a business, but no public announcement was made following the meeting. Closed sessions are allowed by state law under certain circumstances,...

Briefly

Collections down Goldsboro's collections from its hotel rooms tax fell in 2004, but a strong finish kept the drop from being too steep. The 3-percent occupancy tax raised $463,179 last year, Tourism Director Marlise Taylor told the Travel and Tourism...

Board of eductication fine tunes school policies

Several new and revised school policies were approved by the Wayne County Board of Education on Monday night. Guidelines for pupil assignment and transfer procedures, the use of tobacco products, and teacher-career status were fine-tuned by the board. Two new...

Monday, February 7, 2005

Colorful catfish

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit The catfish was built by several art teachers. They include, from left, front row, Donna Moerie, Karen Helms, Betty Jo Godbey; second row, Bernadette Hamilton, Martha Kornegay and Beth Hill. For more information see Head-turning fish fills...

Head-turning fish fills Arts Center fountain

"Fish-ing season" begins today, and if you need any proof, check out the fountain in front of the Arts Center on Ash Street. A massive, multicolored catfish surfaced in the pool Sunday, just in time for tonight's opening reception for...

Food pantry runs on handouts and discounts

MOUNT OLIVE -- Annie Gains saw pecan shells on the porch floor as she walked up the steps to take food to a friend. "Me and my young 'uns didn't have anything to eat yesterday but pecans and water," said...

Circuit City won't open at Berkeley Commons

Circuit City will not open a store at Goldsboro's Berkeley Commons as had been planned, says developer Connell Radcliff. Radcliff, a principal of 1st Carolina Properties, said he hoped another tenant would take the space that Circuit City would have...

Band of Oz will kick of '05 Center Street Jam series

If summertime is calling you, go ahead and mark your calendar now for Center Street Jam's 2005 schedule. Perennial favorite The Band of Oz kicks off the festivities Thursday, May 25, and the season ends with The Embers on Thursday,...

Wayne man, Chris Miller, dies in wreck

MOUNT OLIVE -- A 31-year-old airline pilot was killed before dawn Sunday in a single-car wreck on Country Club Road near Mount Olive, according to Highway Patrol reports. The victim, identified as John Christopher "Chris" Miller of 470 Baker's Chapel...

Opinion : Freedom from religion

Two of my good friends and favorite legislators had something of a head-on collision last week. Senate Majority Leader Tony Rand ordered removal of Bibles, hymnals and a cross from the chapel in the Legislative Building. Shortly thereafter, Marc Basnight,...

Treatment of disabled and mentally ill will change under state reform

New state mental health laws will change the treatment of disabled and mentally ill people by using more community-based resources and less institutionalized care. That's what Michael Moseley, the Director of the Division of Mental Health Substance Abuse Services for...

Albertson Fox Hunt scheduled for Feb. 19

ALBERTSON -- The 20th annual Washington's Day Fox Hunt will be held Feb. 19. The all day event begins with a memorial service at 7 a.m. at the Albertson Ruitan Community Building on N.C. 111 just before it separates as...

Public records

2 homes, shed damaged in fires Unattended cooking was blamed for two fires that caused about $17,000 in damages in homes in Goldsboro, fire officials said today. No one was injured. A stove was left on accidentally before dawn today...

Bloodmobile

The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive Tuesday from 2 to 6:30 p.m. at the chapter house, 600 N. George St., by appointment only by calling 735-7201....

Wal-Mart closed

The Wal-Mart in Goldsboro closed Sunday evening and remained closed as of 1:30 p.m. Monday due to electrical problems. No time was given for the store to re-open. For more information, call the store at (919) 778-3324....

Sunday, February 6, 2005

Existing businesses need more attention, Wayne leaders say

State and local industry hunters agreed this weekend that there's a big hole in Wayne County's business-development program -- it is not doing enough for industries that already operate in the county. They discussed the program at the Economic Development...

City Council to consider raises for employees

Goldsboro employees could receive a cost-of-living raise this week, their first in three years. At its meeting Monday, the Goldsboro City Council will review a proposal to give all city employees a 2.5-percent raise, effective the second payroll this month....

Community Lenten Services begin Wednesday

The annual Community Lenten Services sponsored by Clergy Living in Faith and Fellowship (C.L.I.F.F.) will begin this Wednesday. Fourteen local churches are participating in this year's services, which will be held at Best Grove Missionary Baptist Church at 1065 Tommy's...

Faith-based program helps with addictions

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Nelson Davenport believed that Wayne County needed something like Reformers Unanimous when he first read about the faith-based addictions program in a magazine two years ago. But he put the thought aside until he came across another...

NFL star visits students at Meadow Lane

David Thornton, a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League, visited third- and fourth-grade students at Meadow Lane Elementary School on Friday. Thornton, a graduate of Goldsboro High School, was invited to speak to students by school...

Public records

Brazen thief steals purse A thief stole a purse from a Goldsboro senior citizen in her driveway at lunchtime Friday, then calmly got into a car and drove away, Goldsboro police report. Sarah Ella Haggins, 87, told police that she...

Wayne County Superior Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Quanta Keniel Garner, 23, Jenny Lane, Dudley, possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, 70 to 93 months (habitual felon). *Douglas Elwood Taylor, 34, Bennett's Bridge Road, Mount Olive,...

Wayne County District Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Charles William Leathers, 44, Myers Avenue, assault inflicting serious injury, not guilty. *Mary Hazel, 49, Ben Brewington Drive, harassing phone call (two counts), not guilty. *Jacob James Hernandez, 20, Sanderson...

Mount Olive District Court

These cases have been heard in Mount Olive District Court: *Pamela Denise Owens, 30, East Kornegay Street, Mount Olive, communicating threats, not guilty. *Mary Katherine Badal, 39, Country Club Road, Mount Olive, no operator's license, 45 days suspended, 12 months...

Boys and Girls clubs take part in national art competition

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County are among more than 3,000 across the nation that are joining a search for talented young artists. The competition is part of Boys & Girls Clubs of America's National Fine Arts Exhibit...

916th reservist competes for national award

A Goldsboro resident was selected to represent the Air Force Reserve Command for a national level award. Capt. Robin Middleton, a health services administrator with the 916th Air Refueling Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, was selected from more...

Volunteer Wayne

Volunteer Wayne offers opportunities for people of all ages to serve Wayne County. The service is provided by Volunteer Wayne and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at Wayne Community College. More information may be obtained by contacting Joy...

Student news

Two area students have been named to the Dean's List for the fall semester at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Mary Catherine Mills of LaGrange and Sara Ann Baker of Mount Olive earned a grade-point average higher than...

MOC graduates

Mount Olive College awarded bachelor's degrees to the following area students during its 51st annual fall commencement ceremony: From Goldsboro: Heather Arsenault, James Barefoot, James Boyd, Eboni Brock, Chinn Jeffrey, Patrick Christie, Eric Clark, Joseph Clark, Phillip Clark, Summer Davis,...

Military news

Navy Seaman Recruit Gregory D. Melvin, the son of Macy C. Brewington of Warsaw and Joseph M. Melvin of Dudley, recently completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Melvin completed a...

Valentine party for area youth

MOUNT OLIVE -- Students majoring in Recreation and Leisure Studies are putting their experience and education to work planning "Cupid's Care," a Valentine party for area youth ages 3 through 12. Proceeds from the event on Feb. 14 will go...

Briefly

Something fishy on Ash Street There's been something fishy going on at the Arts Council of Wayne County, and very soon you will be able to see what. Art teachers from several Wayne County schools and some others have been...

Book drive under way

In preparation for Read Across America Day that will be observed on March 2, the Sylvan Learning Center and the Wayne County Partnership for Children want to give every child in the local community a book. Toni Frana, the center...

Friday, February 4, 2005

Cobb concedes defeat

RALEIGH -- Republican Steve Troxler was certified as the winner of the state's long-unsettled agriculture commissioner election today after Democratic incumbent Britt Cobb conceded defeat. "It has become clear that one person can help the state avoid the terrible precedent...

School board board to decide on computer policy Monday

The Wayne County school board is expected to vote on two policies Monday night that would regulate the way teachers use computers and change the process for calculating class ranking. School officials presented the policies to school board members during...

Commissioners, school board talk money, long-range needs

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners and the county Board of Education spent two hours together on Thursday, trying to determine the schools' long-range plans and financial needs. The discussion was constructive, members of both boards said, although they said...

Boling deal reported near

MOUNT OLIVE -- The sale of the Boling Furniture Co. to Red Hill Distributors Inc. remains in negotiations but an announcement is expected soon, says a source close to the company. Boling shut down during the Christmas holidays, idling more...

Lexington wants title of official N.C. barbecue festival

Patriots versus Eagles, UNC vs. Duke, Kurt Busch vs. the rest of the NASCAR field -- these conflicts are small-time compared to the battle brewing in the North Carolina General Assembly over barbecue. Legislators have been asked to endorse Lexington's...

Amirian honored by Main Street organization

Jack Amirian, owner of Amirian's Fine Art & Framing, was honored recently as a "N.C. Main Street Champion" for his efforts to revitalize downtown Goldsboro. Amirian was recognized during the annual North Carolina Main Street Conference, held Jan. 26-28 in...

Briefly

Coming home Several hundred airmen and a group of F-15E Strike Eagles will be returning to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base next week from deployment overseas, the Air Force has announced. The airmen have been supporting Operations Enduring Freedom and...

Public records

Assaults reported An elderly woman was robbed Thursday of her pocketbook and another woman was assaulted in her home, according to Goldsboro police reports. The older woman had parked her car at about 12:30 p.m. in the 2700 block of...

Faison Town Board approves hazard mitigation

FAISON -- The Faison Town Board approved a hazard mitigation plan at its meeting Wednesday following a public hearing at which no one spoke. The plan will be sent to the state for approval and eventually incorporated into Duplin County's...

Thursday, February 3, 2005

Duplin school plan draws mixed comments at meeting

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County residents had a chance Tuesday night to express their feelings about a school needs study. Some like it. Some don't. About 70 people attended a meeting of the Duplin County Board of Education at Kenansville Elementary...

Reactions to the State of the Union address

North Carolina's congressional delegation predictably split along party lines in their reaction to President Bush's State of the Union address. Bush's proposal to revamp Social Security drew the most comments. Democrat G.K. Butterfield, a freshman congressman, accused Bush of wanting...

Mental Health Association honors volunteers, members for efforts

The Mental Health Association of Wayne County recognized volunteers and association members for their efforts on behalf of the mentally ill at the organization's annual meeting Wednesday. Bobby Jones, a member of the association board, received the A.H. Zealy Award....

Public records

Fires damage home, apartment Fires damaged a home and an apartment Wednesday in Goldsboro, a fire official said. No one was injured. A cigarette left on a bed may have caused a fire at a rental house at 1006 N....

GOP meeting schedule

The Wayne County Republican Party has announced the following schedule for precinct meetings at GOP headquarters at 147 S. Center St.: Feb. 14 -- No. 4 (Pikeville Fire Station), 6:30 p.m. Feb. 15 -- No. 16 (American Legion), 6:30 p.m.;...

News calendar

RADIO OPERATORS Local amateur radio operators meet every Saturday from 7-8:30 a.m. at Central Lunch on Center Street. The meetings are open to anyone interested in amateur radio, shortwave listening and radio electronics. Information: Dave Price, 221-9993. WARSAW BIRTHDAY The...

Briefly

Butterfield to speak U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield will speak at next week's 31st annual Human Relations Awards Banquet. Butterfield has represented the 1st Congressional District since his election last July to fill the term of former congressman Frank Ballance. Butterfield...

Wednesday, February 2, 2005

Mystery remains

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Bill Dees, center, and Carroll Overton, right, pry open the time capsule found inside the Community Building while Ed Borden looks on this morning. The men are all members of the building's trustees. For more information see...

Mud-covered papers found when time capsule opened

Hidden for more than 80 years, the contents of the Community Building's time capsule were revealed this morning. But exactly what they are will remain a mystery for a while longer. The copper box, found in the remains of the...

Rain, snow mix possible Thursday

Snow is possible in Wayne County Thursday and into early Friday, but accumulations are expected to be limited because of rain mixing in with anything that does fall. Still, motorists are advised to be cautious and listen for the latest...

Public records

Four hurt in wrecks Four people were injured and damages were estimated at $16,200 Tuesday in four traffic collisions in Goldsboro, police reported. *A driver was injured in a two-vehicle collision at 4:51 p.m. Tuesday at East Ash and North...

MOC hosting agri-business conference

MOUNT OLIVE -- About 25 farmers and extension agents from across the state are attending a four-day professional development conference at Mount Olive College. The conference, which began Sunday, is sponsored by Altria-Shared Solutions. This is the second conference of...

Film based on LaGrange soldier wins awards

A documentary film based on the death of a LaGrange soldier in World War II won two Emmy awards last month at the Midsouth Regional Emmy Awards ceremony in Nashville, Tenn. "Thank You, Eddie Hart," is the story of the...

Briefly

Snakes and collards Are there snakes in the collards at the supermarket? Dr. Karen Baldwin of East Carolina University will talk about this and other urban legends Thursday at the Wayne County Public Library, 1001 E. Ash St. The program...

School breakfast and lunch menus

Following are the breakfast and lunch menus for Wayne County Public schools for the week of Feb. 7-11. Monday -- Breakfast: Apple turnover. Lunch: Baked chick fillet on a bun, burrito with salsa, corn, pinto beans, diced pears and milk....

Tuesday, February 1, 2005

Phillips, Quinn recognized by Duplin business groups

KENANSVIILLE -- Paul Phillips of Kenansville was named Duplin County's Industrialist of the Year and Dr. Corbett Quinn was named the recipient of the Duplin Agribusiness Council's Melvin Cording Award for outstanding contributions to agribusiness. Both awards were bestowed Monday....

Ex-Wayne magistrate hired by Lenoir County

A Wayne County magistrate who was fired from her job on Christmas Eve has been hired by Lenoir County. Remona McIver was to be sworn in today in Kinston. Mrs. McIver was one of two magistrates told by Superior Court...

Reaching out to others can strengthen community, speaker says

The Rev. Jim C. Whitfield challenged local leaders and others this morning to reach out to others as a path to a stronger community. Whitfield, pastor of First Pentecostal Holiness Church, spoke at the annual prayer breakfast to mark the...

Two die in Sunday crash

WALLACE -- Charges are pending in the investigation of a collision Sunday morning that took the lives of two children. Austin Tyler Partida, 3, and Heather Brown, 5, of the same address in Willard, N.C., died in the wreck, which...

Duplin company selling dietary supplement

WARSAW -- Six grape growers from across the state have joined to open a new industry in the Business Technology Center here. The company, Nutragon, LLC, converts the hulls of grapes to a dietary supplement that is being sold over...

Public records

Trucks destroyed in building fire MOUNT OLIVE -- Two trucks that were being restored were destroyed, and a shed and a home were damaged in a fire at 216 Winn St., according to reports. Alonzo Lee was washing truck parts...

Mrs. Hooks honored by educators for national technology award

Cathie Hooks, fifth-grade teacher at Tommy's Road Elementary School, said five years ago that she had a fear of computers and technology. But she was determined not to pass it on to her students. "I would not let it keep...

Briefly

There's that word again There it is again, the word "snow," followed by several question marks. As of this morning, the National Weather Service in Raleigh is still trying to sort out the various computer models that predict the movement...