July 2006 archives

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Monday, July 31, 2006

City Hall Phase Two

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Willie Lovett loads wood from Goldsboro's original City Hall Friday afternoon. Demolition started last week and many of the rooms on the first floor have been gutted. City officials said they want to see "whatÍs behind the...

Temperatures headed for 100

Wayne County residents won't have to ask -- "hot enough for you?" -- this week. With temperatures expected to reach 100 degrees and heat warnings expected, it will be plenty hot enough for anyone. In a special weather statement released...

Workers check condition of original city building

Interior demolition has begun inside Goldsboro's original City Hall building, marking the official start of Phase II of the city's three-phase project. Assistant City Manager Tasha Logan said contractors are currently pulling up carpet and linoleum floors, removing the panel...

More than $230,000 needed for new shelter

Wayne County residents have raised about $16,500 of a requested $250,000 for a new animal shelter. Earlier this month, County Manager Lee Smith said the county would allocate about $750,000 for a new shelter, and that construction could begin as...

Barn burns in early morning fire

Arson is suspected in a morning fire that burned an abandoned building off Old Grantham Road, officials said. Mar Mac Fire Chief Bill Harrell said responders got the call at around 8:20 this morning that a building was burning near...

Public records

Fire destroys Eureka home EUREKA -- A Eureka family lost everything in a fire this weekend at their home on Davis Street Extension. Owners Sam and Carolyn Sutton and their three children were not at home at the time the...

Sunday, July 30, 2006

GHS administrator, county officials confident

School officials remain steadfast in their belief that Goldsboro High School's performance is improving and the school will not be shut down this fall. Judge Howard Manning, who earlier this year threatened to close schools that did not show marked...

School board, county commissioners will talk facilities

By ANDREW BELL and PHYLLIS MOORE News-Argus Staff Writers After months of discussion and weeks of waiting, Wayne County's commissioners, county officials and school district board members and staff are finally ready to get serious about facilities. The first meeting...

Program will target bad check offenders

Bad check writers beware; and worthless check victims take heart. A new program sponsored by District Attorney Branny Vickory's office could mean quicker punishments for those who write bad checks and faster restitution for their victims. Wayne County will join...

Mom waits for son to return from Iraq

Tuesday lunches haven't been the same for Laverne Barwick since her son went to war. She said it used to be their time, the highlight of her week -- and will be again when he returns home to Goldsboro. A...

United Wayne plans Days of Caring

In a show of support for their friends and neighbors, Wayne County residents will give their time doing community service projects for this year's Days of Caring. The event will be Sept. 8-16 and is being sponsored by Volunteer Wayne...

Downtown organization recognized

The efforts of the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. have been noticed from afar. Recently, DGDC officials learned the group has received national recognition for commercial district revitalization from the National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Center. "A National...

Nat'l Night Out set for Tuesday at Herman Park

From staff reports Wayne County residents are being urged to lock their doors, turn on their outdoor lights and join their neighbors Tuesday night in observance of National Night Out. The annual event is designed to bring neighborhoods together with...

Superior Court

Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *William Charles Kohls, 26, Pecan Road, Dudley, second-degree sexual offense, 90 to 117 months; second-degree arson and conspiracy to commit second-degree arson, 13 to 16 months....

Mount Olive District Court

Mount Olive District Court These cases have been heard in Mount Olive District Court: *Kelvin Whitfield, 43, South Herman Street, Goldsboro, larceny, 11 days. *Rafael Garcia, 39, Menci Place, Mount Olive, no operator's license, 30 days suspended, 12 months unsupervised...

District Court

Wayne County District Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Eyvonne M. Washington, Deluxe Drive, seat-belt violation, not guilty. *Jowand D. Jennings, Astor Court, assault by pointing a gun and communicating threats, dismissed. *Gary Wayne Buckom,...

Public record

Investigations Goldsboro and Wayne County law enforcement officers are investigating these reports: *Employees at the Target on Sunburst Drive reported a suspicious fire Saturday that damaged $40,000 in goods. Officials said among the items damaged were light and store fixtures,...

Friday, July 28, 2006

Another day to build an ark

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Goldsboro police block Mulberry Street near its intersection with Kornegay due to heavy flooding and a dislodged manhole cover. The uncovered manhole gushed water that flooded the street to a depth of nearly 2 feet. For more...

Rains, winds cause trouble across county

A flash thunderstorm Thursday afternoon dumped 1.58 inches of rain on Wayne County, leaving residents cleaning up debris and law enforcement officials handling five traffic accident reports. Weather forecaster Bob Ussery said two thunderstorm reports came in to the National...

WATCH weighs financial needs

Wayne Action Teams for Community Health is working under a shortfall this year, the director told the organization's board of directors this week. WATCH Executive Director Sissy Lee-Elmore said that even though grant money is getting harder to come by,...

Garden dedication set for Saturday

Public library officials and a group of gardening aficionados will gather outside the library on Ash Street on Saturday to dedicate a "garden of understanding," intended to bring together residents of varying ages and backgrounds. The ceremony will be at...

Public records

Gun stolen Alejandro Ponce, 36, of Orchestra Lane reported to Wayne County Sheriff's deputies that someone entered his home and stole a .45-caliber pistol from his bedroom. The pistol was valued at $1,100. Wanted The Wayne County Sheriff's Office and...

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Flying high

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Jack Crawley, right and flight instructor Bill Wallitzer look over a chart before Crawley takes to the air Sunday at the Goldsboro-Wayne Airport. For more information see Pilot is 67 and still flying high.-->...

New business coming to TransPark

KINSTON -- Spatial Integrated Systems, a Maryland-base company that specializes in information technology, engineering services and software for the aviation industry and the military, announced today that it will build a facility at the Global TransPark. The company uses...

Fines to be levied for improper handicap parking signs

When the Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities submitted its survey on handicapped parking to the city, Goldsboro's Chief Building Inspector Ed Cianfarra promised he and his staff would take whatever measures necessary to get the more than 700 businesses...

Pilot is 67 and still flying high

Jack Crawley waited nearly half a century to see his dream come true. The 67-year-old Pinetops man recently earned his pilot's license, flying out of the Goldsboro-Wayne Airport. When the plane lifted off with Crawley at the controls, flying solo,...

Duplin will have two EMS openings

KENANSVILLE -- Beginning Aug. 4, the Duplin County Emergency Medical Service will have another vacancy to fill. Assistant Director and Training Officer Jeremy Hill resigned last week to take a position with the state EMS office, Duplin officials said. Hill,...

Money is biggest concern for many future retirees

As the baby boomer generation ages, more and more seniors are looking towards retirement, and at the same time, coping with the uncertainty the transition will bring. While some contemplate ways to live out their golden years, others hope their...

Waynesborough Commission board to reorganize

Waynesborough's governing body is reorganizing to simplify operations at the historical village on U.S. 117 south of Goldsboro. Work has been going on for a while to rewrite the bylaws, and the Old Waynesborough Commission met Tuesday to discuss realigning...

public record

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

New boardroom

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Wayne Community College's Board of Trustees meets for the first time in their new board room in the Dogwood Building Tuesday night. From left around the table are board members Veda McNair, assistant secretary to the board...

Board gets update on college construction, renovation work

The Wayne Community College Board of Trustees met in its new board room in the executive suite of the Dogwood Building Tuesday night. The renovation project began in December 2005 as part of a move to expand the college's bookstore...

Council OKs bid for automated meter reading system

Soon, meter readers walking through the yards of Goldsboro residents will be mere memories, officials said. City Council members unanimously approved a motion from the Finance Department Monday, officially awarding the bid for equipment and training associated with an upgrade...

Assault suspect won't go to court

A man charged with attempted murder and aggravated assault on a sleeping woman last year left the Wayne County Courthouse a free man. Well, almost free. "It was the weirdest case I ever had," said Assistant District Attorney Jan Kroboth,...

Fire guts Faison storefront

FAISON -- A fire gutted a business in downtown Faison in the wee hours of the morning today, and buildings on either side were damaged by smoke. Faison firefighters got a call at 3:10 a.m. to a small Hispanic grocery...

New Food Lion is ready to open

Goldsboro's newest Food Lion grocery store opens next week in the Wayne Plaza Shopping Center on East Ash Street. Food Lion, which operates more than 1,200 stores across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, has seven stores in Wayne County, more...

Center Street Jam Thursday

The Craig Woolard Band will be the featured entertainment at the Center Street Jam on Thursday night. The party starts at 5:30 and ends at 8:30. The free summer concert series sponsored by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. is held...

Public records

Thefts of copper increase in Wayne A theft of a copper gas line Tuesday from an abandoned house at 703 Corney St. could have created a dangerous situation, a Goldsboro police official said today. "If someone had struck a match...

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Houses condemned

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber This home at 919 Bethune Avenue is one of several houses on the city's condemned list. Property owners now have six months to make repairs or the city will schedule demolition. For more information see Four houses...

Goldsboro High deadline looms

On the heels of the announcement that Goldsboro High School was among schools that again did not make adequate yearly progress, Judge Howard Manning last week set a hearing date to review the state's plans to rescue the state's lowest-performing...

Four houses placed on condemned list in city

City Council members gave four Goldsboro property owners one final chance to bring their dilapidated dwellings up to code at their Monday evening meeting. The properties, located at 106 E. Dewey St., 601 W. Chestnut St., 521 Olivia Lane and...

Horse owners on lookout for mosquito-borne illness

Horse owners are being reminded to have their animals vaccinated against mosquito-borne diseases that pose a threat during the hot months of summer. The state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services reported the first case of eastern equine encephalomyelitis last...

Gas prices will change some bus fares

If gasoline prices continue to increase, the Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority's rural passengers will pay more to get around the county, officials said. Although urban rates in Goldsboro would not change, rural rates will if gas prices exceed $3 per gallon,...

Programs for troubled youths earn state funding

A Wayne County organization will receive more than $500,000 from state and local allocations during the next year to continue its work with programs that help local children and teenagers get a new start. The North Carolina Department of Juvenile...

Council members OK contract with chamber

The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will continue to operate the city's Travel and Tourism office, City Council members decided Monday. Last September, the city authorized a contract for the Chamber to handle the operation and administration of the Travel...

WCC business team earns trophies at national competition in Nashville, Tenn.

Members of the Wayne Community College chapter of the Phi Beta Lambda business education student organization placed in three competitive events at the 2006 National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tenn. In team events, Christopher Thomas, Joshua Berens, and Justin Currin...

Public records

Thefts Wayne County sheriff's deputies are investigating several break-ins and thefts that involved more than $1,000 in property: *About $15,000 in property was stolen between Wednesday and Monday from a home in the 100 block of Malcolm Glenn Drive, a...

College speakers available

MOUNT OLIVE -- An array of speakers and topics ranging from religion and history to travel and yoga can be found through Mount Olive College. The speakers' bureau addresses issues of personal growth and development, as well as provides an...

Monday, July 24, 2006

State agrees to reduce runoff fee

The General Assembly has lowered nitrogen runoff fees throughout the Neuse River Basin, which will benefit local developers looking to build or expand in Wayne County, officials say. During construction at a new development, sediments, such as nitrogen and phosphorus,...

Summer storm hits fast, some flooding

High winds, flooded streets and an unconfirmed tornado touchdown caused problems for some Wayne and Duplin residents Sunday, officials said. This latest rain event, which gauges at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base reported brought 1.63 inches of water to Goldsboro...

Doctor warns of drug's side effects

Cumulative effects of osteoporosis drugs also used for cancer patients have doctors and patients concerned about other problems the medicines could cause later. The widely used drugs, called bisphosphonates, have been linked to a rare side effect that causes parts...

MOC students to see changes

MOUNT OLIVE -- New and returning students to Mount Olive College this fall will see more than a few changes to the surroundings, officials say. In addition to ongoing construction projects around the campus, resident students will be in for...

Public records

3 teens arrested following break-in Three teenagers were arrested before dawn today by Wayne County sheriff's deputies and charged with crimes in connection with a break-in at Wild Indian Gun Company at 2305 U.S. 13 North. Sheriff's Sgt. Sherwood Daly...

Software classes available

Classes on the Adobe InDesignCS2 software will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays, Aug. 16 through Dec. 13. To guarantee a seat in the course, students are encouraged to register and pay the $60 fee in advance either online...

CPR courses offered at WCC

Wayne Community College Continuing Education will offer a two-session Infant, Child and Adult Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and First Aid course for American Heart Association certification. Classes will be held on July 31 and Aug. 1 from 6-10 p.m. in Room 112...

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Ethics will be on agenda for last week of session

Members of the North Carolina General Assembly, which has been in a short session since May, decided to extend the session one more week before adjourning, mostly to reach a decision on ethics reform legislation, some Wayne County's representatives report....

Still no resolution to alley fight

MOUNT OLIVE -- A more than 2-year-old battle over a strip of pavement off James Street isn't over yet. So far, the bill for the battle has been more than $70,000 in the effort to win an alley not quite...

City Council has zoning demolition on its plate

Goldsboro City Council members will have plenty on their docket at their final meeting of the month Monday at 7 p.m. Four public hearings will be held, including two dealing with zoning issues. The first, involves a request by V.M....

Concert schedule ready for state fair

From staff reports RALEIGH -- Contemporary Christian bands, Nashville stars and R&B hitmakers will take the Dorton Arena stage at the 2006 N.C. State Fair this October. Concert tickets range from $5 to $20 and will be sold online at...

PUBLIC RECORD

Multiple Assault Two men were injured with the same baseball bat during a fight on the 400 block of North Virginia Street Saturday morning, Goldsboro police said. According to a police report, Dexter Bunn, 54, stepped outside his home with...

Superior Court

Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Jonathan Frank James, 38, Bull Drive, Princeton, assault on a female, not guilty. *Kenneth Carroll Grady, 32, Albert Grady Road, Mount Olive, possession of stolen goods,...

Friday, July 21, 2006

Harvest time - Tobacco farmers start work

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Workers load tobacco at a local farm owned by Shawn Mitchell on Emmaus Church Road in the Arrington Community. Mitchell, who owns 70 acres of tobacco, said he is cropping his tobacco by hand as a way...

WCPS students receive nearly $13 million in scholarships

Wayne County high school students brought home nearly $13 million in scholarships this year, school officials announced this week. An estimated $2.6 million in scholarships and more than $10.3 million in renewable aid was distributed to students at the county's...

Consultant: U.S. 70 bypass toll roads not a viable solution

CLAYTON -- Turning the proposed Goldsboro, Kinston and Havelock bypasses into toll roads would not be feasible, a consultant for the North Carolina Turnpike Authority told members of the U.S. 70 Corridor Commission on Thursday. Commission members had considered designating...

United Way set for campaign launch

After narrowly meeting its goal at the very last minute in 2005, United Way of Wayne County isn't going to take any chances this year. Campaign Chairman Geoff Hulse hopes to be at the organization's goal of $1.44 million with...

Concert a 'gift to the community'

A mass choir composed of members from several local churches will perform this weekend at the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base chapel. The concert, which will be on Saturday at 7 p.m., will feature gospel recording artist Pastor Nancy Wilson,...

Former local NAACP chief Dorothy Hardy dies

Dorothy Whitted Hardy, a two-time president of the Wayne County chapter of the NAACP and an active member of many local community, civic and political organizations, died Thursday. Mrs. Hardy worked as a teacher and guidance counselor for the Goldsboro...

Distributor: Gas prices could hit weekend highs

A gasoline distributor expects gas prices to go up on weekends because of uncertainty about world events, but AAA doesn't expect the fluctuations in the price of fuel to be significant. Demand for gasoline is up in the U.S., Europe...

Public records

Man arrested in Kinston murders KINSTON -- One of three men wanted on charges in connection with a June 23 shootout that killed two people and injured five others has been arrested in Greenville, Kinston police said. Derek Level "Twin"...

O'Berry receives $100,000 Reynolds grant

The O'Berry Center Foundation has been awarded a $100,000 grant by the Kate B. Reynolds Charitable Trust of Winston-Salem. Funds will be used for medical equipment families are unable to afford for the developmentally disabled children and adults O'Berry serves,...

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Tea lessons - Generations share tradition

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Natalie Riggs, right, and Christian Whaley, second from right, sit and drink tea with their family and friends at the Grand Ladies Tea Party in the Herman Park Center Wednesday. The event, sponsored by Goldsboro Recreation and...

County will open 7th high school

They don't even have to build it, and the new students will come. Wayne County Public Schools will add a seventh high school this fall on the campus of Wayne Community College. Earlier this school year, Board of Education and...

Johnston Ambulance Service could sue in Duplin EMS case

An attorney for Johnston Ambulance Service said he will wait to hear the results of an internal Duplin County investigation before deciding on civil action in a case involving the county's ambulance service contract. On Monday, former Duplin County Emergency...

7 rabies cases reported in Wayne

The Wayne County Animal Shelter has already reported seven cases of rabies this year, and more could be coming this summer. Chief Animal Control Officer Jerry Pate said even though rabies cases are reported year-round, his office receives more calls...

Gardeners keep eye on harvest

A bunch of young gardeners turned salesmen beckoned motorists to stop Monday morning and buy their veggies under a tent on Harris Street. Some of the children weren't too happy when their sales efforts were met only with a friendly...

Fremont board members OK new sewer tap

FREMONT -- The Fremont Town Board of Aldermen quickly approved a sewer tap on a force main for a proposed subdivision of 11 or 12 luxury homes on Airport Road, and a subdivision of four large building lots off Davis...

Public records

Drug charges Four people were arrested Wednesday by the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad and charged with felony drug offenses after an investigation and search of an apartment in the 700 block of Longleaf Avenue. The resident, Antwain Marque Grantham, 20,...

Faison turns law enforcement over to sheriff

FAISON -- Faison Town Commissioners have elected to transfer law enforcement jurisdiction to the Duplin County Sheriff's Office. Following a public hearing Monday, Commissioner Jane Hollingsworth moved to contract with the sheriff's department for law enforcement protection. The motion passed,...

Duplin D.A.'s office forced to move due to mold

KENANSVILLE -- Mold problems have forced District Attorney Dewey Hudson's Duplin office to close, effective today. Employees have been reassigned to the Sampson and Onslow County offices. District Attorney Dewey Hudson said increasing mold problems forced the temporary closing of...

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Out in the sun

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit Ronald Jones works in the hot sun along Ash Street this morning. He is one of the members of the city crew putting a new sidewalk along Ash. City officials say they are keeping a close eye...

Wayne official defends ferry party

Wayne County Development Alliance President Joanna Thompson said she did attend a ferry reception for state and local officials during the Tall Ships Festival earlier this month, but she felt, and still does, that it was an opportunity to showcase...

New year, same result

Ten of the 31 public schools in Wayne County made adequate progress for the 2005-06 school year, according to a preliminary report released Tuesday by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. Of the remainder, 20 schools did not make the...

DA: Two charges are from contract inquiries

KENANSVILLE -- Charges against two former Duplin County emergency service workers stem from an attempt to force Johnston Ambulance Service out of the county, District Attorney Dewey Hudson said during a press conference Tuesday. Curtis Brock, 39, former director of...

Trying to stay cool as mercury rises

The recent rise in temperature has many Wayne and Goldsboro residents looking for relief. This week, as some local thermometers read nearly 100 degrees, city, county and local emergency officials had their minds on keeping the community and its workforce...

DGDC wants to hear thoughts about downtown

Next month, Goldsboro residents will have an opportunity to voice their opinions regarding the future of downtown. The Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp., along with recently hired urban designer Allison Platt, will host two public forum sessions Aug. 8, on the...

Public records

Teens facing more charges Two teenagers, already in custody on numerous other felony charges, were charged Tuesday by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office with the larceny of a T-Rex scooter from a Hereford Drive resident. Eric Earl Outlaw, 19, of...

Retired Duplin County employee receives Order of Long Leaf Pine

KENANSVILLE -- Longtime Duplin County employee Judy Brown received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine on Monday, the state's highest civilian honor. Ms. Brown, who served Duplin for 27 years as an administrative assistant in the county manager's office...

Princeton board ponders water service requests

PRINCETON -- The Princeton Town Board of Commissioners met with its attorney to discuss out-of-town water customers on U.S. 70-A but took no action. After the meeting was opened, the board immediately went into closed session with lawyer Robert Spence...

Fremont denies permit for adult day care

FREMONT -- A proposed senior adult day care will not be coming to Fremont. The Town Board of Aldermen, in a split vote, denied a request for a conditional-use permit from Provident Care Inc. of Lanham, Md., to operate the...

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Landmark burns - Firefighters fight heat, too

News-Argus/Bobby Williams EMS worker Carol Taylor brings water to firefighters at the scene. In addition to making sure they were hydrated, Ms. Taylor also checked their vital signs. For more information see History ablaze - Mount Olive's Murry feed...

Fremont eyes plan to create industrial park

Wayne County's commissioners want the N.C. Department of Transportation to conduct a survey to determine if extending Davis Mill Road to the old U.S. 117 is feasible -- a move that could help bring a distribution warehouse or other industry...

History ablaze - Mount Olive's Murry feed mill burns

MOUNT OLIVE -- A familiar landmark was destroyed Monday afternoon as fire ripped through the old Murray family feed mill in Mount Olive. Billowing smoke could be seen as far away as the Wayne County Fairgrounds more than 10 miles...

Feed mill had long history

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Murray family feed mill, built nearly 60 years ago by brothers Bill and Durwood Murray to accommodate their farming interests, hadn't been profitable for several years. But Durwood Murray, who is 87, kept taking care of...

Duplin's ex-EMS chief to answer charges

Two people have been charged in connection with an investigation of the Duplin County Emergency Medical Services by the State Bureau of Investigation. Former Duplin EMS Director Curtis Brock and EMS employee Barbara Coman were both charged Monday with two...

It's going to be a REALLY hot one

For local residents without air-conditioning units or looking for a way to beat the heat, sometimes the best way to cool down on hot summer afternoons is to find the nearest store. With temperatures expected to surpass the 100-degree mark...

Transportation Authority will collect on some overdue payments

The Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority is owed more than $35,000 by an advertising agency and several local organizations. Members said they hope to collect the money before the authority meets again in September. Highet and Kracker, an advertising firm based in...

Longtime News-Argus editorial columnist dies at home

Dr. A. Purnell Bailey, whose column has appeared in this newspaper and others across the country for well over half a century, died Sunday in Fredericksburg, Va. He began writing "Our Daily Bread" for the "Stars and Stripes" while serving...

Special Olympian brings medal home to Wayne

Erica Walderman has brought Olympic gold back home to Wayne County. The 22-year-old Special Special Olympian recently captured first place at the first Special Olympics USA national games, held in Iowa in early July, earning the gold medal in golf...

Public records

Assault charge A 39-year-old man has been arrested by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and charged with a felony assault in connection with Sunday's shooting of another man. Lomack Darrick Pridgen of Tinderwood Drive was charged with assault with a...

Monday, July 17, 2006

Blood shortage

News-Argus/Becky Barclay Harriet Pegram, team supervisor for the Red Cross blood services out of Wilmington, checks on the blood donation bag of donor Lena Joyner. Ms. Joyner said she gives blood as often as she can and to date...

Developer buys site

A shopping center is coming soon to the old Nichols property on Wayne Memorial Drive, but details of the new development are still a mystery. The developer, 1st Carolina Properties, also created Berkeley Commons. A spokesman for the company said...

Officials: No help coming to cover Medicaid

If Wayne County residents expected to see relief from footing the bill of rising Medicaid costs after learning about the state's $2.4 billion surplus, they can think again, county officials said. "This was an opportunity to act and to distribute...

Red Cross faces seasonal shortage of blood in region

Blood supplies across the nation are at critically low levels, Red Cross officials say, even though the shortage has not directly affected Wayne County yet. To help replenish the supply, the Wayne County chapter of the American Red Cross has...

Public records

Store is robbed; man wounded An Hispanic convenience store, two employees and another man were robbed in two separate holdups and a man was wounded, according to law-enforcement reports. The store and the employees were robbed Sunday night by seven...

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Local plant eyeing expansion in Wayne

Uchiyama America plans to make about a $15 million expansion within the next few years, which would create an additional 100 jobs for the community. The only problem is, company officials haven't decided which community that will be. Problems in...

Charges pending in fatal crash

From staff reports A Dudley woman was killed early Saturday in a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Sleepy Creek and Emmaus Church roads. Marisela Roblero-Ortiz died when she was thrown from a minivan involved in the crash. She was...

Soldier shares view from war in Iraq

Looking skyward as night falls on Iraq, United States Army Staff Sgt. George E. Grundy learns to appreciate some of the finer things about life as a deployed soldier -- like the sight of an oversized moon and a million...

It's official: Wal-Mart is coming

From staff reports MOUNT OLIVE -- Construction of a Wal-Mart supercenter on the northwest side of Mount Olive is under way, with a new sign at the site trumpeting the project that is expected to be completed next spring. Wal-Mart...

GPD's 7 most wanted

Goldsboro police are seeking information on the whereabouts of seven of the city's most-wanted fugitives, including an alleged murderer and an accused bank robber. Anyone with information on any of the seven is asked to call the lead police investigator...

District 10 rematch will cost county

A dispute in the North Carolina House District 10 race could cost taxpayers in three counties money -- depending on the decision the North Carolina Board of Elections makes next month. Rep. Stephen LaRoque filed a petition challenging the May...

Public record

Escapee caught A convicted felon who escaped from the Wayne County Courthouse three years ago is back in the county jail. Reginald Antwan Henry, 32, of Koonce Street, was picked up by police in Morrisville on Saturday while investigating a...

Superior Court

Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Edward Glyn Long, 25, Odom Mill Road, Mount Olive, breaking and entering, 10 to 12 months; larceny, 10 to 12 months; breaking and entering, 10 to...

Mount Olive District Court

These cases have been heard in Mount Olive District Court: *Juan Hernandez Eason, 24, Lee Street, Kenansville, driving while license revoked, 45 days suspended, 12 months unsupervised probation, $100 fine and costs (appealed). *Patricia Ann Lalonde, 37, East Williamson Street,...

Wayne County District Court

These cases have been heard in Wayne County District Court: *Terry Gaines, 17, Wayne Woods Drive, breaking and-or entering, not guilty. *Leonard Deshea Middleton, 22, Indian Springs Road, Mount Olive, assault inflicting serious injury, not guilty. *Sergio Vargas, 33, Pineview...

Friday, July 14, 2006

Tobacco acreage high in Wayne

Tobacco acreage in Wayne County increased by nearly 2,000 this year, but it has yet to reach the levels seen as recently as the mid-1990s. Farmers in Wayne planted 7,686 acres this year, up from 5,736 in 2005. Rick Tharrington,...

Secondary roads will get state help

The state Department of Transportation will spend $2.3 million over the next two years to repave and otherwise improve secondary roads in Wayne County. District Engineer Tim Little explained the improvement plans at this week's meeting of the Wayne County...

Pizza party nets $800 for family

Close to $800 was raised Thursday night for the family of a Greenwood Middle School student recovering from injuries sustained after being hit by a car nearly eight months ago. "It was great," said D.J. Coles, youth minister at Seymour...

Mount Olive plans fire station's future

MOUNT OLIVE -- Town officials are taking a look at fire protection services and facilities as they try to plan ahead to handle future growth in the community. Town Manager Charles Brown said Mount Olive has outgrown its fire station...

27 drivers charged with drunken driving in 'Booze It' campaign

Twenty-seven motorists were charged by Wayne County authorities with driving while impaired during the two-week "Booze It and Lose It" campaign against drunken driving. State Highway Patrol troopers, Goldsboro and Fremont police and Wayne County sheriff's deputies conducted 46 checkpoints...

Farm committee nominations sought

Wayne County farmers are being encouraged to nominate candidates to serve on the Farm Service Agency county committee. Nominations will be accepted through Aug. 1. Forms are available at the FSA office at 209 W. Spruce St. Eligible candidates must...

Public records

Women assaulted Two women were injured Thursday in separate assaults, according to reports filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Jennifer Louise Collins, 35, of Union Grove Church Road, Fremont, was taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital, where she was treated...

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Cherry Hospital

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Now that Gov. Mike Easley has signed the $145.5 million allocation for a new Cherry Hospital, officials said they are uncertain about what will happen to the existing facility. Sen. John Kerr III, D-Wayne, said he hopes...

$145.5M approved for Cherry Hospital

Gov. Mike Easley's signature made it official Tuesday -- a new, $145.5 million Cherry Hospital is coming to Wayne County. The "long shot" bill that N.C. Sen. John Kerr III, D-Wayne, and co-sponsor Sen. Martin Nesbit Jr., D-Buncombe, introduced at...

Greenwood driver slated for deportation

Wilder Fidelmar Mejia Alvarado, whose sport utility vehicle struck and critically injured two eighth-grade students last fall as they crossed East Ash Street on their way to school, is being deported to his native Guatemala, probation officials say. "You can...

District 10 race decision goes back to Kinston

RALEIGH -- State Rep. Stephen LaRoque and Willie Ray Starling will have to wait another month before the state Board of Elections makes a decision about who will be the Republican candidate in the District 10 race in November. State...

Commission weighs franchise agreement

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners hopes to approve a cable television franchise agreement with Cebridge Acquisition within the next month, before state legislation takes away their power to issue the agreements. During the board's meeting on Tuesday, the commissioners...

Charges filed in beauty shop robbery

A Dudley man accused of taking part in last weekend's armed robbery of a supermarket in Mar Mac now has been implicated in the armed holdup of a beauty shop. Nevon Rashon Carter, 19, of Genoa Road, has been charged...

Goldsboro native on Chapel Hill school board

The newest member of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro school board is a Goldsboro native. Annetta Streater will complete a recently-vacated term that expires in 2007. Ms. Streater, 42, is a graduate of Goldsboro High and holds two degrees from the University...

Princeton board rejects Johnston water proposal

PRINCETON -- The town of Princeton rejected a request from Johnston County to serve water customers just beyond the town limits. Johnston County had asked town officials to provide water to customers living along U.S. 70. The Princeton Town Board...

Public records

Marijuana plants found, destroyed A total of 191 marijuana plants were found Wednesday by the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad, just north of Holland Hill Drive in the Rosewood area. The plants were discovered by officers on board the Sheriff's Office's...

MOC accepting applications for Heritage Plus program

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive College at Mount Olive is accepting applications for the Heritage Plus program that will begin Aug. 21. The program is the latest in a series of curricula that the college has specifically designed for working...

Head Start signup on Tuesdays

WAGES Head Start and Early Head Start will take applications for enrollment the next two Tuesdays, July 18 and July 25, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day. Applications will be taken at all five locations -- Royall Ave....

Greene voters turn down mixed drinks

Greene County voters turned down a mixed-drink referendum Tuesday, with only one of the county's 10 voting precincts holding a majority for the measure. It was the third time in five years that a mixed-drink vote has failed in Greene....

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Three Men and a Truck

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Like they do every single morning, firefighters at Goldsboro Station 5 go through their daily inspection of the fire engines and other equipment. Shown above are Lt. Vaden Lee, left, Chris Walker, right, and engineer Melvin Smith,...

Duplin arrests gang suspects in local sweep

Duplin County authorities arrested nine people late last week they say are connected to organizing an Hispanic gang in the area and who might already be part of several incidents of robbery and murder. The nine men -- all from...

Who will be on ballot?

RALEIGH -- The state Board of Elections was expected to hear a challenge by state Rep. Stephen LaRoque today over the results of the May primary for the District 10 seat in the state House. LaRoque lost in the Republican...

Death off table for 2003 store shooting

A 58-year-old man accused of fatally shooting a shopkeeper's son-in-law more than three years ago during an early-morning burglary and gun battle near Seven Springs will not be tried for his life. George Roy Legg will be tried for first-degree...

Kinston man dies in crash on U.S. 70

A 69-year-old man from Kinston died Tuesday from injuries in a head-on collision on Dr. M.L. King Jr. Expressway, the U.S. 70 bypass, a Goldsboro police spokesman said. The victim was identified as Maurice Ray Hill, who was traveling east...

Carson Thomas, family take new road

Eights months have passed since Heather Thomas got the call that her 14-year-old son, Carson, had been struck by a car while crossing the street in front of Greenwood Middle School. She remembers the day like it was yesterday, still....

Fire district maps change to help insurance ratings

Wayne County is improving its fire district mapping system to help departments in their efforts to improve their insurance ratings. The old maps are being converted to the county's geographic information system, or GIS, to make them more accurate, county...

Wayne Planning Board wants other county officials to attend its meetings

The Wayne County Planning Board is asking other county officials to attend its meetings and to keep up with the planning process. The Planning Board's actions have a far-reaching effect on almost every aspect of local government, members said at...

Public records

Investigations Goldsboro police are investigating these reports: *A television, a video cassette recorder, a fan, a clock, detergent and about $350 were stolen between Saturday and Tuesday from a home in the 400 block of North John Street, Goldsboro police...

Princeton resident complains about police 'harassment'

PRINCETON -- A Princeton resident told the Town Board that young people are being harassed by the police, but the police said they are merely enforcing the law. Serena Stevens made the comment during the Princeton Town Board's July meeting...

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Board members - Reorganization will help schools

Problematic test scores at Goldsboro High School can be traced down to middle and elementary school levels, school board members said Monday night during a discussion of the school system's start and dismissal times for the coming year. Earlier this...

Wal-Mart starts work at new site in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- Wal-Mart will soon begin construction of a new store on the northwest side of Mount Olive, Town Manager Charles Brown told members of the town council Monday night. Wal-Mart has not officially announced it plans to build...

Woman jailed for stealing tots' toys

A woman who stole toys from a collection box just before Christmas in 2004 has pleaded guilty to misdemeanor larceny and two felony charges. Kimberly Dawn Crawford Riveros, 34, of Dunn was fined $2,000 and sentenced in Wayne County Superior...

City water restrictions now lifted

Last month's heavy rains, long storms and flash flooding lifted Goldsboro out of drought conditions and, consequently, out of conservation measures, too Upon recommendation from Public Utilities director Karen Brashear, council members lifted voluntary conservation of water measures that had...

Groups gets first OK for new park

Stoney Creek Park Development Committee members got a nod of approval Monday, as Goldsboro City Council members encouraged the group to pursue membership with the Wayne Charitable Partnership and approved the plan for the park. Committee chairman Peter Roethling spoke...

Committee picked to review plan for facilities

The Board of Education Monday night named the joint committee that will assess school facilities needs in the county, while the board chairman discussed the possibility of a special election to enlist support for a bond referendum. The facilities master...

Public records

Two injured in hit-and-run crash; driver is charged Two people were injured Monday in a hit-and-run, rear-end collision at West Grantham and Elizabeth streets, Goldsboro police reported. A stopped, westbound driver, Linda Blackmon, 51, of Smithfield, and her passenger, Amber...

2006-07 Wayne County Schools start and release times

Belfast Academy 8 a.m. 2:30 p.m. Brogden Middle 7:45 a.m. 2:25 p.m. Brogden Primary 8 a.m. 3 p.m. Carver Elementary 8:10 a.m. 2:45 p.m. Carver Heights 8 a.m. 3 p.m. C.B. Aycock High 8 a.m. 3 p.m. Dillard Middle 7:30...

School supplies needed

The Hispanic Community Development Center is collecting school supplies for a back-to-school party that will be held Aug. 19 at the center at 309 Potts Road in Dudley. Organizers are looking for sponsors to provide things such as sport equipment...

Downtown group sponsoring free ice-cream party July 20

The Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. will sponsor a free ice cream party Thursday, July 20, from 4-6 p.m. at the Pedestrian Plaza at the corner of Chestnut and Center streets. The Malpass Family will provide entertainment. The Wayne County group...

Monday, July 10, 2006

The next step

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Mike Holland, right, and Johnny Bryant move some of their recently acquired furniture from the original City Hall building. Most of the furniture still inside the facility was auctioned off Saturday and will be moved out soon...

Eastern Region chief eyes future

New chief executive officer Albert Delia is hoping he can take the Eastern Region forward after a recent state audit finding that suggested the organization's former leader misspent funds. Delia took over the helm of the regional economic development group...

Suspects charged in robbery of grocery

Three men who allegedly held up a supermarket Sunday night in Mar Mac were arrested quickly by Wayne County sheriff's officers and charged with armed robbery. Nevon Rashon Carter, 19, of Genoa Road, Dudley, Shantrell Marqua Matthewson, 19, of Ward...

Original City Hall next on building renovation list

Now that city staff and residents are familiar with Goldsboro's new City Hall, officials say their focus has shifted next door, to the original building. Mayor Al King recently told residents that he expects renovations on the early 1900s building...

Higher prices aren't slowing summer travel

Whether flying overseas or cruising on the ocean, high gas prices can't keep Wayne County travelers from their vacation plans. Travel slowed a little last fall when the gas prices spiked, but Stephanie Hawkins at Quixote Travel said business has...

Red Cross to combine 2 chapters

The Wayne County Red Cross chapter will consolidate with the Wilson chapter later this year, a Red Cross official said. Wayne Red Cross executive director Chuck Waller said both chapters are in the process of merging, which is expected to...

Public records

Woman shot A 21-year-old Goldsboro woman was wounded Saturday night in what Goldsboro police called an accidental shooting. Kenyatta Noel Hines was shot in the back at a next-door neighbor's home in the 100 block of Swan Street, police said....

Airman dies in motorcycle accident while in Arizona

A Seymour Johnson Air Force Base airman died Saturday in a motorcycle accident in Tucson, Ariz. Staff Sgt. John M. Siggins, a 26-year-old member of the 4th Fighter Wing Equipment Maintenance Squadron, was on temporary assignment at Fort Huachuca, Ariz....

Clarification

Duplin commissioners will hold a public hearing on the county's billboard ordinance Aug. 7 during a planned meeting. The commission will discuss the Planning Commission's recommendation to abolish the ordinance governing billboards along Interstate 40....

Booths available for National Night Out

Organizations, churches, civic group and agencies that want to have a booth at the annual National Night Out program at Herman Park were asked to contact the Goldsboro police organizers. Police Cpls. Teresa Cox and Marissa Davis may be called...

Auditions set for Center Stage show

Center Stage Theatre will hold auditions for "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" July 17-19, at 7 p.m. at Herman Park Center. There are more than 20 speaking parts for men and women. Those auditioning should wear comfortable...

Sunday, July 9, 2006

Business owners see potential in downtown Goldsboro improvements

David Cain has always dreamed of moving his photography studio to a storefront, historic location that he could customize. Recently, he found the "perfect spot," he said -- right downtown. Thursday, Cain got some advice on how to achieve success...

And still not forgetting to preserve city's past

Six years ago when Randy and Jewel Sauls bought their historic home in downtown Goldsboro, the first few weeks of work were daunting. Their home, which is located in what is known as the Borden block of South George Street,...

Suspect indicted in officer shooting

A man accused of shooting a Goldsboro police captain in the chest earlier this year has been indicted by the Wayne County Grand Jury on five felony offenses. Bobby Lee Rawlings, 58, of East Elm Street was indicted on charges...

Wife shot; retired captain charged

A Goldsboro woman was shot Friday night in her home in the 100 block of Woodsmill Drive, according to a Goldsboro police report. Her husband, a retired Goldsboro police captain, said it was an accident but he was charged with...

Taste of Wayne set for Aug. 15

Local restaurants will dish up some of their most tasty treats at the annual Taste of Wayne County. The event will be Aug. 15 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and children 6 and older. Children...

By day, he is city manager; after business hours, he rocks

When Joe Huffman straps on his electric guitar and draws the pick across its strings, for a few hours, he is no longer Goldsboro's city manager -- he's just Joe, a natural-born rocker who lets the music take control. On...

History enthralls village guests

Visitors to Waynesborough Historical Village are enjoying a glimpse at the past -- how Wayne County residents lived more than a century ago. This weekend marks the annual Summerfest program with a service at 11 a.m. today at Bethany Friends...

Public Records

Man convicted of identity theft is arrested again A Goldsboro man who was convicted in 2005 of numerous charges of financial identity fraud and was sentenced to probation has been arrested again by Wayne County sheriff's officers on similar charges....

They have their own 'sister act'

MOUNT OLIVE -- They grew up as sisters and have shared the experience of becoming wives and mothers. And in May, Beverly Gainey Bradshaw and Barbara Gainey Carter received their college diplomas together. Mrs. Bradshaw and Mrs. Carter, both of...

Council to discuss new park alliance

Goldsboro City Council will hold its first meeting of the month Monday, after rescheduling last week's session due to Independence Day. The agenda will cover more than a dozen issues, including one matter scheduled for public hearing - a non-contiguous...

Group set for next jam downtown

Barefoot Manner, a five-piece musical group, will be featured at this week's Downtown Jam held by the the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. The show will be held Thursday in the parking lot behind the Waynesborough House off Center Street. Shows...

Results in from holiday campaign to catch violators

Fifteen motorists were arrested by Wayne County authorities and charged with driving while impaired during the first period of the annual statewide Booze It and Lose It campaign against drunken drivers. Goldsboro police arrested eight drivers, including three who were...

Friday, July 7, 2006

News-Argus/Kaye Nesbit For more information see XXX.-->...

Building is booming in Wayne

By BONNIE EDWARDS News-Argus Staff Writer Building construction in Wayne County is booming, and county building inspector Steve Stroud said this week he expects the pace to continue through the end of the year. Builders obtained permits for $38.5 million...

State could OK cutting runoff fees temporarily

By ANDREW BELL News-Argus Staff Writer A state Senate bill that has been approved on its second and third reading would reduce the nitrogen runoff fees along the Neuse River from $57 to its previous $11 per pound per acre,...

Shooter up for parole after 18 years

By JACK STEPHENS News-Argus Staff Writer A 71-year-old LaGrange man serving a life sentence after being convicted of first-degree murder is being considered for parole by the N.C. Post-Release Supervision and Parole Commission. Bill Vester Coker was convicted Jan. 26,...

Three more are charged in city sting

By JACK STEPHENS News-Argus Staff Writer Three more women, including an alleged repeat offender and the wife of a man arrested earlier, were arrested Thursday night by Goldsboro police and charged with prostitution violations in the fifth phase of Operation...

Hot weather profitable for shaved ice vendors

By BONNIE EDWARDS News-Argus Staff Writer Those who might wonder what a sunset tastes like need only stop by one of the many Hawaiian shaved ice stands in parking lots citywide. The creatively named frozen creations are a pleasant way...

Waynesborough Summerfest this weekend

By BONNIE EDWARDS News-Argus Staff Writer Waynesborough Historical Village will hold its annual two-day Summerfest this weekend, featuring 19th-century games and contests, food and entertainment and living history demonstrations. The festivities begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and will continue through...

Public records

Suspect arrested A man who was arrested Wednesday by the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad also was wanted by Craven and Durham County authorities and the state Corrections Department. The man had identified himself as Messiah K. Jackson, 28, of Elizabeth...

Someone in Wayne has won $20,000

From staff reports Someone in Wayne County could be $20,000 richer. Lottery officials say a $10,000 winning Powerball ticket was sold at Rawlings Express Mart on Royall Avenue in Goldsboro before Wednesday's drawing. The winner doubled his $10,000 prize by...

Thursday, July 6, 2006

Harvest time - Tobacco thriving in county

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Rodrimiro Angel Bravo operates a harvester Monday in a tobacco field owned by Tony Jones off N.C. 55 west of Mount Olive. Jones was one of the first farmers in the county to begin harvesting tobacco. Wayne...

Officials: Cable TV changes will limit access

Wayne County officials have been fighting a move by state legislators to take over the granting of local cable TV franchises, but say they do not expect to win the battle. The final bill will be on the Senate floor...

Emergency services getting look in Duplin

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin commissioners have the county's emergency services director looking for the best way to provide emergency services to residents. Emergency Services Director Craig Forlines said EMS is covering the county's needs well now, and he would not make...

Commission will discuss billboard rules

KENANSVILLE -- A public hearing on a proposal to abolish Duplin County's billboard ordinance will be held Friday at 9:45 a.m. at a meeting of the county Board of Commissioners. The county Planning Board proposed to do away with the...

Up, up, up, and he's skydiving at age 71

When Bobby Stone was medically deferred from jump school in the Army, he never lost the desire to parachute from an airplane. More than 50 years after entering the Army, Stone has jumped four times in the last two years...

Wayne chamber offering discount for motivational speakers' event

Wayne County residents can attend a day-long event featuring five motivational speakers at a special cost, thanks to a deal from the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce. The "Get Motivated Seminar," which will be held Tuesday at the Crown Center...

Public records

Man assaulted A woman was charged by Goldsboro police Wednesday with domestic abuse after she reportedly cut a man on his arms, according to an investigator's report. The victim, Michael Chiyo Butler, 24, of Dudley, was taken by ambulance to...

Wednesday, July 5, 2006

Red, white and blue - Marking the nation's birthday

News-Argus/Bobby Williams Cassidy Mason shows off her wheels and patriotism Tuesday during the Kid's Parade in Westbrook Park, Mount Olive. The event kicked off an afternoon celebration that included games, hot dogs, ice cream and watermelons. Close to 500...

Seven more arrested in prostitution sting

Seven more men have been arrested by Goldsboro police in the fourth phase of Operation Clean Streets and charged with soliciting for prostitution. The arrests came a day after police had arrested eight more men and charged them with soliciting...

Alliance will help bring new business

A new, combined economic development effort designed to increase interest in the region and to bring more jobs to Wayne County is now official. The Wayne County Development Alliance, which began operations this week, replaced the county's Economic Development Commission...

Melons are prime for plucking

SEVEN SPRINGS -- The heavy rains that have bashed Wayne County recently could be good for Jacob Odom's watermelon crop. Now, all he needs is a little more heat, he says. Some of the melons he grows could be in...

Volunteer pilots give N.C. Olympians a lift

Since his days as a pilot in the Air Force, Jim Steele, the manager and chief pilot for Strickland Insurance Group Aviation, said he has grown accustomed to flying from point A to point B. But as a volunteer for...

Veterans ask leaders to give back benefits

Years ago, as retired Senior Master Sgt. John Armstrong finished his appointment at the doctor's office, he was told not to return -- the government was no longer footing the bill for his medical care, and he did not have...

Eastern Wayne Middle School debate team to attend Model U.N. conference

A debate team formed last year at Eastern Wayne Middle School to boost students' test skills has earned a spot at the Model United Nations Conference later this year. Mary Susan Heath, a seventh-grade social studies teacher at the school,...

Public record

House fire A Tuesday morning fire severely damaged a home on Elton Drive. The home of Etta Geraldine McIntyre was struck by lighting during a heavy thunderstorm. She and the other members of her family got out of the house...

Monday, July 3, 2006

All her heroes

News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Emily Mather sorts through a closet full of bug spray, video games, batteries, food, DVDs and other gifts at her home on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The items will be packaged and sent to the American...

School board wants to get facilities moving

School officials say it's taken long enough to get facilities projects started, and they will do whatever it takes to get a bond referendum on the ballot. County commissioners last week announced their interest in selling bonds to raise money...

All her heroes -- wife makes sure no serviceman forgotten

Last year, Emily Mather sent more than 300 birthday cards to men overseas -- most of whom she has never met. She never forgets her friends, she said. A little more than two years ago, Emily was inspired by her...

No new taxes for town's citizens

MOUNT OLIVE -- Residents won't see an increase on their tax bills next year in Mount Olive -- and they won't see any cutbacks in services, either, although increasing gas prices could cause them to pay a little more for...

Man charged in Dudley shooting

From staff reports A 20-year-old man was shot in the head Saturday in the Foxfire subdivision near Dudley, and another man was arrested quickly by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and charged with the offense. Darrell Antonio Darden, of Genoa...

Fireworks legal, but there are safety rules

Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks is legal in North Carolina -- but only with many precautions, local officials say. The only legal fireworks are those with 200 grams or less of chemical compound. These include sparklers, fountains, glow...

New animal shelter plans will require donations

Wayne County Manager Lee Smith said he would like to see construction for a new animal shelter begin in January, but settling on a location and finding the money to build it are holding the project back. Smith recommended to...

Public records (07-03-06)

Man charged with assault A man and a woman were awakened before dawn today by a man who threatened to kill them and then assaulted them, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office reported. Camila Perez, 39, and Eugenio Perez, 21, told...

OPINION -- Political epidemic

POLITICAL EPIDEMIC Don't fret about a pandemic of avian flu. We're already beset by an epidemic that spreads across this state -- and probably others -- every couple of years. People suddenly are seized by an irresistible compulsion to urge...

Seniors eligible for free fans

Operation Fan-Heat Relief, a special project that provides electric fans to senior citizens, is now underway across North Carolina. The fans are purchased through donations made by public utility companies in the state and the program is managed through the...

garbage notice MON

Garbage delayed Waste Industries will be closed Tuesday for the Fourth of July. Garbage collection Tuesday through Thursday will be delayed by one day, with the schedule returning to normal on Friday. Customers are asked to pull their containers to...

Sunday, July 2, 2006

Initial Cherry vote encourages Kerr

A "long shot" bill that N.C. Sen. John Kerr III, D-District 5, introduced at the General Assembly in May is one step closer to bringing a new psychiatric facility to Goldsboro, Kerr said Saturday. The legislation, which was introduced by...

'Streets' sting brings arrests of eight men

In four hours Friday, Goldsboro police officers arrested eight men during the third phase of "Operation Clean Streets," a news release from the department said. Members of the Goldsboro Police Department's Operations Division concentrated their efforts on complaints of prostitution...

Residents to contest annexation outcome

Less than one month since a judge ruled in favor of the city of Goldsboro, Good Neighbors United, a group opposed to the city's decision to annex the neighborhoods along Salem Church and Buck Swamp roads, will appeal the verdict....

Fourth's festivities begin

PIKEVILLE -- The town of Pikeville continued a nine-year tradition Saturday as the Pikeville Lions Club sponsored their annual Independence Day Festival. The day-long program, which included several events, games and ceremonies, culminated in the late evening with a fireworks...

Near and far, holiday fun easy to find

Fourth of July revelers will have plenty of chances to celebrate the nation's birthday in Wayne and Duplin counties this week, with fireworks displays, celebrations and other special events highlighting the holiday. Goldsboro residents can catch the fireworks display at...

Duplin budget creates uncertainty for teachers

KENANSVILLE -- Budget constraints may force some Duplin County educators to look for work outside the county, school officials said. Duplin Schools passed an interim budget, mindful that they would not have final numbers by the beginning of the fiscal...

County recycling efforts to intensify

Wayne County officials will make a push to increase recycling in the coming year, but it will be up to local residents to take the first step toward a cleaner community, they say. The county plans to hire a recycling...

About 600 Wayne students to attend summer classes at 2 middle schools

About 600 Wayne County children will attend public summer school this year as the school system works to improve test scores in reading and math. Wayne County Public Schools' "Focused Intervention" program will be offered at two schools in the...

Retiring educators recognized

Educators and staff retiring from Wayne County Public Schools were recently honored during an appreciation reception held at the Goldsboro Country Club. Assistant superintendent Marvin McCoy presided over the event for the retirees and their families. Board of Education Chairman...

Public Record

Break-ins/thefts *Fat Cat Pawn and Jewelry, located on 117 South, reported a break-in Friday. An employee said he responded to a call from the store's alarm company and upon arrival at the scene, noticed damage to the side door and...

NC Community FCU honored

GREENSBORO -- NC Community FCU, headquartered in Goldsboro, earned statewide recognition for its community service at the 71st annual meeting of the North Carolina Credit Union League in Pinehurst in June. NC Community received the Dora Maxwell Social Responsibility Award...

More at Four applications are now being accepted

The Partnership for Children of Wayne County is currently accepting More at Four applications for the school year beginning in August. Classes are located in public schools, Head Start and child care facilities. More at Four is a free state-funded...

Fifty pounds of marijuana seized

A routine traffic stop on U.S. 70 West on Friday led to the discovery of an estimated $117,600 worth of marijuana in a sport utility vehicle. Wayne County Sheriff's Deputy Jerry Maxwell, a retired state Highway Patrol sergeant, spotted the...

Kayla Shivar elected president of state Future Farmers of America

Kayla Shivar, a recent graduate of Spring Creek High School and a rising freshman at North Carolina State University, has been elected president of the North Carolina Future Farmers of America. Ms. Shivar, who plans to study agricultural education, will...

Interest in Wayne Civil War history is increasing

Interest in the Civil War continues to grow, historians say, and Wayne County's role in the war is being put on display to convince travelers the county is worth visiting to see the sites where Union and Confederate troops once...

Holiday garbage collection, bus schedules adjusted

Goldsboro and Wayne County will shut down operations Tuesday, as staff and elected officials observe Independence Day. Most city and county offices will be closed and some services will be delayed. Goldsboro City Hall and the Wayne County Courthouse will...

Downtown Goldsboro development group seeking new board members

The board of directors of the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. is seeking new board members from within the community who share an interest in improving downtown and making it a viable part of Goldsboro. The board of directors is an...