Monday, April 30, 2007
Saving a cemetery - Women work to preserve memories
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Yvonne Stanley, left, and Evelyn Shepard clear out debris around grave markers in the former Lightner Cemetery in the Mar-Mac community. The women hope to enlist community support as they spruce up the county-owned cemetery and honor...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
County land-use plan on display Wednesday
With an open house scheduled at the Wayne Center from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, county officials are hoping for a good turnout as residents are invited to examine the county's new long-term, strategic land-use plan. Focused on 12 different...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
New Medicaid rates set
After several weeks of discussion and controversy, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Resources set new Medicaid reimbursement rates Thursday for community support providers in the mental health system. Community support providers primarily offer consumers with mental illnesses...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Vietnam memorial coming to Warsaw
WARSAW -- From the first American footsteps onto Vietnamese soil to the fall of Saigon, 58,226 soldiers were declared dead or missing in action during the Vietnam War. The name of every soldier, sailor, Marine and airman who was killed...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Clearing way for history
Evelyn Shepard knew some of her relatives were buried in the former Lightner Cemetery in the Mar-Mac community, but shied away from going until recently. "I had been talking about this for years," she admits. "It was once locked up,...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Love of airplanes led resident to create Seymour scrapbook
Jimmie Nelson does not remember the first time he saw an airplane -- probably sometime in the late 1940s, the 65-year-old said. But he can tell you how he has come to love them and just how lucky he feels...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:49 PM Full Story
Businesses can learn how to sell to government at trade show
Local businesses will have a chance to learn how they can get military contracts when the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Purchase Cardholder Trade Show is held June 12. For years, red tape prevented many small business owners from trying...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Lenoir County man charged in murder of 7-year-old girl
A Lenoir County man faces a murder charge in connection with the death of a 7-year-old girl whose body was found in a ditch in Pink Hill over the weekend about nine hours after she was reported missing. John Alan...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
WCC spring concert Thursday
The Wayne Community College Music Department will present its annual Spring Music Concert on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public. The college band is directed by Matt Andrada. The chorus...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Library looking for garden volunteers
The Wayne County Public Library has started its Community Garden Project for its second season. Last summer, volunteers helped turn a plot of land near the library into a community garden. Library officials are urging others to join the effort...Published: Apr 30, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Suspect identified in funeral murder
An 18-year-old convicted felon is being sought in the murder of a 28-year-old Goldsboro woman who was gunned down in a parking lot as mourners poured out of a memorial service for her boyfriend last week. The hunt is on...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Social Services annex shut down amid threats
Wayne County Department of Social Services Annex on U.S. 117 North was shut down Friday after an anonymous phone call threatening child protective services employees was received at about 2 p.m. The threat came in the wake of a case...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Thousands turn out for N.C. Pickle Festival
MOUNT OLIVE -- A little embarrassed maybe, Riley Harbor denied that he had been waiting for the North Carolina Pickle Festival for almost a year, but his mom nodded her head, smiled and said that yes, he had. "We...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Landfill director Cook retiring May 1
For 19 years, Lloyd Cook has been surrounded by trash at work, but on Tuesday, he will be turning over the job of keeping Wayne County clean to someone else. Cook started as Wayne County's solid waste director in...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Grant will offer new anti-gang sentence
About two years ago, when she was assigned to the Lenoir County juvenile deliquency system, District Judge Beth Heath in the 8th Judicial District saw a problem -- more and more young people were becoming involved in gang activities....Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Luncheon to raise money for girl campers
Six former Girl Scouts are conducting a fund drive to send 50 girls to camp this summer. A luncheon is set for May 9 at the Goldsboro Country Club to kick off the Send a Girl to Camp fundraiser, which...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Eastern Wayne senior headed to The Citadel
Jasmine McLamb of Goldsboro is the first to admit she might seem like an unlikely candidate for the Citadel. More of a free spirit, she has a penchant for fashion -- highlighted flowing curls and a tiny sparkling nose ring....Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Seven Springs seeking vendors, re-enactors for Ole Timey Days
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Organizers for the seventh annual Ole Timey Days Festival are looking vendors and reenactors. The festival is set for June 9 and is being sponsored by the Seven Springs Ole Timey Days Festival Committee and the Seven...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Public record
Boy abducted A Rosewood Elementary School student was reported to have been abducted from his Austin Drive home in Princeton at about 3 p.m., Friday. He told deputies that he had just gotten home from school and was sitting in...Published: Apr 29, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, April 27, 2007
Shooting on George Street
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Goldsboro Police Chief Tim Bell, left, Officer Jeff Beeken and a search dog look for for clues at the shooting scene. For more information see Funeral ends with girlfriend's murder....Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Funeral ends with girlfriend's murder
As hundreds of spectators poured out of the McIntyre Funeral Home on South George Street Thursday, they heard gunshots. Minutes later, one of the mourners -- the deceased's girlfriend -- was dead. Family and friends of 23-year-old Raheim Kornegay of...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Eastpointe addresses access to care issue
They've repeated it so many times in the last year that it's almost become a mantra for Eastpointe employees, but recently they stood before a group of mental health professionals and interested consumers and said again that while they no...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Schools sending home dress code survey
Parents will get a chance to weigh in on possible changes to school dress codes next week, when surveys are sent home with students, officials announced. At its March 26 meeting, the Board of Education approved the "higher standard dress...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Johnson County officials like the idea, but won't commit money to U.S. 70 coalition
Johnston County has said it will not be part of a coalition designed to have a say in the future of the U.S. 70 Corridor. When the U.S. 70 Corridor Commission began working to get the highway higher on the...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Line break leaves home with water pressure woes
Goldsboro residents might experience water woes today, as officials said a water line broke early this morning, affecting water pressure in some city homes. City Manager Joe Huffman said he found out about the break at 5:30 this morning. Since...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Investigations The Goldsboro Police Department is investigating these reports: *Officials at the Subway restaurant at 1312 W. Grantham St., said someone stole $1,600 fromthe cash register at the business. *Somebody threw a rock through the front glass window at the...Published: Apr 27, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, April 26, 2007
New year, same plan for school facilities
After nearly two years of bantering and bickering between the school board and county commission, the Board of Education approved a facilities plan during work session Wednesday -- the same list of construction needs first proposed in 2005. The only...Published: Apr 26, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
Repairs at former city hall progress
Less than one month after Daniels and Daniels Construction Co. was awarded the project, crews have begun work on Goldsboro's original City Hall and officials said they expect the renovation and restoration work to be completed early next year. Project...Published: Apr 26, 2007 2:02 PM Full Story
Bids should be out next week for new animal shelter
Wayne County officials are making the final refinements to the proposed design for a new animal shelter before the project goes out for bid sometime during the next week. After the bid process, which usually takes anywhere from 30 to...Published: Apr 26, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
Funeral home customers enoounter insurance scam
Grieving relatives who have recently lost a loved one -- beware. Criminals are working to bilk those who have experienced a recent death in the family out of money through an insurance scam, local officials say. Funeral homes in Hendersonville...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:57 PM Full Story
Hospital recognizes volunteers
Volunteers at Wayne Memorial Hospital do more than lighten the workload for others. They serve as ambassadors and make a difference in customer service, officials said recently during the annual volunteers' recognition luncheon. Awards were presented to those with outstanding...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:54 PM Full Story
Resurgent Grange working to boost community, not just agriculture interests
A fraternal organization formed more than a century ago to promote agriculture and the American rural community is making a resurgence in Wayne County. April is National Grange Month and Grange officials in the county say they believe the dramatic...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
MOC Singers concert Friday
MOUNT OLIVE - The Mount Olive College Singers' Spring Fling Concert is scheduled for Fridayat 7:30 p.m. in the Southern Bank Auditorium of W. Burkette and Rose M. Raper Hall. The event is free and the public is invited. The...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Zelma Winslow told Goldsboro police Wednesday that an unknown man approached her while she was sitting in her vehicle in the 1200 block of Ash Street and asked for a light for his cigarette. The suspect pulled out...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Air base education fair May 8
Military personnel and their families are invited to an education fair sponsored by the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base Education Office on May 8 from 4-7 p.m. at the Officer's Club ballroom. The event is intended for all military personnel,...Published: Apr 26, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Lost fuel tank - No injuries from Strike Eagle drop
Carteret County News-Times, Dylan Ray photo Jet fuel and marsh water are siphoned from a hole left after a fuel bladder from a Seymour Johnson Air Force Base F-15E Strike Eagle detached and landed in the Morehead City subdivision...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
The Angels will fly
There will still be Angels in the skies over Goldsboro and Wayne County May 12. Fourth Fighter Wing officials confirmed this morning that the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team, plan to perform at Wings Over Wayne as...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Pigs might have eaten recalled pet foods
Officials with local hog operations, Goldsboro Milling in Goldsboro and Murphy-Brown in Warsaw, said today that salvaged pet food contaminated with an industrial chemical was not used at any of their farms. "We're double checking our entire system to make...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Health Department officials concerned about maintaining staffing levels
Retaining employees in the Health Department is a growing concern, prompting officials to consider whether salary incentives are the answer. Kevin Whitley, director of environmental health, said turnover in his department is an ongoing problem. "Over the last two years...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Convicted murderer up for parole after 16 years for Mount Olive beating
A High Point man convicted of beating a Mount Olive man to death with a two-by-four in June 1990 will soon become a free man after serving only 16 years of a life prison sentence. Larry Buckram, 53, is set...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
College president receives award and portrait
On the heels of having his replacement announced earlier in the day during a meeting of the State Board of Community Colleges on the Wayne Community College campus, retiring President Ed Wilson was honored as recipient of the Order of...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Amnesty Day at landfill Saturday
The Wayne County Commissioners have declared Saturday, April 28, as Amnesty Day at the Wayne County landfill on South Landfill Road. From 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., the county will waive the normal tipping fee for all county residents. The...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC Foundation scholarship application deadline April 30
New and returning students who plan to attend Wayne Community College in the fall 2007 semester may apply for Foundation of Wayne Community College scholarships through the end of April. Scholarship applications are available in the Foundation office in the...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Language students to perform Thursday
Students in two Wayne County Public Schools' programs will be featured in showcase events open to the public, both on Thursday. The Second Language/ESL Performance Competition will be held in the Goldsboro High School auditorium from 9 a.m. until 1...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
DOT workshop on widening N.C. 41
The North Carolina Department of Transportation will hold a workshop on Thursday to present information and receive questions concerning the proposed widening on N.C. 41 to a multi-lane road. The workshop, which will be held in the Wallace Elementary School...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Johnston Democratic officers elected
SMITHFIELD -- The Democratic Women of Johnston County held their April meeting jointly with the Johnston County Democratic Party Annual Convention at the Johnston County Courthouse on April 19. New officers were elected: Sarah Anderson, president; Dr. Carolyn Ennis, first...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Chamber seminar on stress May 8
In today's fast-paced world, business owners and their employees are having a hard time managing the hurdles and stress of their everyday lives. During the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce's next Lunch and Learn seminar on May 8 at the...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Bus drivers advance to state competition
Two local school bus drivers placed in the district school bus "ROAD-e-o" competition held recently in Clinton and will advance to the state competition May 9-10 in Raleigh. James Shepard, a bus driver for Tommy's Road Elementary School, earned second...Published: Apr 25, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Commission wants to decide on tax
With their expenses looking to increase dramatically over the coming years -- about $8.3 million in Medicaid expenses in 2007-08 and school construction costs on the horizon -- Wayne County officials have asked the state General Assembly for permission to...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:57 PM Full Story
Goldsboro asks county for money for projects
PIKEVILLE -- With construction on the new Paramount Theater under way and the new Community Building looming, the City of Goldsboro is asking the Wayne County Board of Commissioners for $300,000 for each of the next 10 years. The request...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
In loving memory of Cavion
Danielle Holloway remembers when her 5-year-old son, Cavion, told her not to cry -- that he would be OK. She thinks about the day that started out with a bloody nose and ended with a shocking diagnosis. She longs for...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:54 PM Full Story
Seymour Johnson AFB officials prepared for safe air show
It could have happened anytime, anywhere -- even during the Wings Over Wayne Airshow. So when the Blue Angels Navy Flight Demonstration Team's No. 6 jet crashed during a performance over Beaufort, S.C., it came as no surprise that potential...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Pikeville robbery suspect nabbed
Pikeville police arrested a Goldsboro teen who allegedly robbed Howell Brothers grocery store at gunpoint last week. Kenneth Ray Spruill Jr., 17, of West Lockhaven Drive, was charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon in connection with the incident, Pikeville...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Pate receives local BSA honor
Mike Pate of the Pate-Dawson Co. was named the recipient of the 2007 Wayne County Distinguished Citizen Award Monday night at the Torhunta Boy Scout District's annual banquet. Organizers say it was the most well-attended banquet they remember, with 240...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College art show opens Wednesday
MOUNT OLIVE -- The Mount Olive College Department of Art and Visual Communications will present its annual student show on Wednesday. An opening reception will be held from 4-7 p.m. in the Student Art Gallery in Laughinghouse Hall. This exhibit...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
All-County Band concert Thursday night at Dillard
More than 100 of Wayne County Public Schools' top band students will participate in the 2007 All-County Band Festival on Thursday evening at Dillard Middle School. Accomplished professionals will direct the talented group of middle and high school students. The...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County Public Schools lunch menu for the week of April 30
Monday -- Breakfast: ham biscuit; Lunch: sausage pizza, burrito w/salsa, corn niblets, pinto beans, chilled pear halves, red delicious apple, garden salad. Tuesday -- Breakfast: cinnamon bun; Lunch: beef-a-roni w/bread stick, turkey salad on lettuce w/crackers, steamed broccoli, corn on...Published: Apr 24, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, April 23, 2007
No official word yet on flight team's show here
No decision has yet been made on whether the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Team, will take to the skies over Goldsboro and Wayne County May 12. Public affairs officers from the squadron confirmed this morning that this...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Two die in separate weekend shootings
Local law enforcement officials were called to respond to two separate shooting incidents over the weekend that left two men dead. The first murder was logged by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at about 2:18 p.m. Sunday. Deputies responded to...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman drives her car off riverbank
A 24-year-old LaGrange woman drowned Sunday morning when she drove her car into the Neuse River and it sank to the bottom. Divers freed the woman identified as Deana Marie Ormsby of Washington Street from the car at about 10...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Neuse on group's at-risk list for rivers
The Neuse River was declared the nation's eighth most endangered river last week by a national conservation group. And while Wayne County isn't the worst polluter, Neuse Riverkeepers said everybody within the basin shares some of the responsibility for the...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Gang member convicted of murder
A 21-year-old member of a Hispanic gang was ordered to serve a maximum of 26 years in prison for murdering a Wallace man at a tire shop last summer, a judge decided last week. William Salmeron of Owings Mills, Md.,...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount Olive Habitat house dedicated
MOUNT OLIVE -- It was 20 degrees outside Maria Diaz Diaz and Gregorio Solis Vega's unheated one-bedroom apartment when they met with a Habitat for Humanity selection committee last winter. Last week, the couple from Costa Rica turned the key...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Agricultural tourism tour to be held May 3 in Sampson
The North Carolina Cooperative Extension's Southeast District will hold its annual AgriCultural Tourism Spring Tour May 3 in Sampson County. The deadline for registering for the tour is April 30. The tour provides a hands-on approach to learning and becoming...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Shootings *Stephanie Barnes, 44, of Chestnut Street, told Goldsboro police that someone shot her in the leg behind a building in the 1800 block of Courtyard Circle at about 10:15 p.m. Saturday. *A fight at Teaser's adult nightclub at 2:50...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Masada subject of WCC lecture
A UNC professor will lecture on the seige of Jewish fortress of Masada by the Romans on Thursday at Wayne Community College. Dr. Jodi Magness will speak at 7 p.m. in room 101 of the Walnut Building. The event is...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
GOP women to meet Thursday
KINSTON -- The Republican Women's Club of Eastern North Carolina will meet Thursday at the Broken Eagle Eatery at 220 N. Herritage St. A social hour begins at 6:30 p.m. and the business meeting begins at 7. Membership is open...Published: Apr 23, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Living his dream - Goldsboro native flying F-15E Strike Eagle
James Jinnette was one of the dreamers -- jumping at the sound of hometown aircraft streaking overhead, vowing to become a fighter pilot like his heroes down the road at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. He was the 7-year-old little...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Albertson officially new president of Wayne Community College
It's official. Dr. Kay Albertson will be the fourth president of Wayne Community College effective July 1. The State Board of Community Colleges met at Wayne Community on Friday, unanimously approving Dr. Albertson's selection, which had been announced last month...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
County will seek comment on comprehensive plan
On May 2, county residents will have the opportunity to help set the direction of Wayne County for the next 10 to 20 years. Faced with the need for a long-term plan addressing such issues as transportation, economic development,...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive prepares for Pickle Festival
Nearly 60,000 free pickles were eaten at the North Carolina Pickle Festival in Mount Olive last year. And while that might seem like a lot, if this year's crowd matches or surpasses last year's total of about 20,000 on...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Princeton man faces charges in fatal accident
A Princeton man faces charges for allegedly pinning a friend against the exterior of his apartment with his car, fatally injuring him in February. James Holder, 29, of Barden Street, is scheduled to appear in Johnston County District Court at...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Former deputy starts over after DWI
Former Wayne County sheriff's Deputy William Young said the drunken driving charge he received in January after an accident in Edgecombe County was a low point in his life. But the ordeal that cost him his job at the Wayne...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Advocates looking to community for agenda
Advocates of Goldsboro and Wayne County hope Saturday marked a new beginning. The group wants residents to share their ideas on how build a better community for future generations -- and its members want that message to spread much farther...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne Schools honor Stevens as Volunteer of the Year
Kenneth Stevens lives with physical challenges as the result of a workplace accident that nearly claimed his life a few years ago. But instead of giving in to the daily pain, he can be found helping where he is needed...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin eyes money for schools in new budget
Despite the county school district's need for funds, Duplin County Manager Mike Aldridge isn't sure he can meet the Duplin County Board of Education's $12.3 million budget request. Board of Education members met with the county's finance committee Friday to...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne County Superior Court
Wayne County Superior Court These cases have been heard in Wayne County Superior Court: *Robbin Ann Campbell, 48, William Street, larceny, prayer for judgment, $337.50 fine and court costs. *Steven James Surface, 45, Arrow Point Drive, DWI, dismissed; reckless driving,...Published: Apr 22, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, April 20, 2007
Building on former WCC campus slated for demolition this month
The old Wayne Community College administration building on U.S. 70 bypass is coming down. The property is owned by the state Eastern Region Vocational Rehabilitation Facility, which bought it in 1999. Demolition of the building started this month and is...Published: Apr 20, 2007 2:15 PM Full Story
County rejects request for tower
Crown Castle International will not be building a new cellular telephone tower at its proposed location a mile-and-a-half south of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base after the Wayne County Board of Commissioners allowed the company's rezoning request to die when...Published: Apr 20, 2007 2:10 PM Full Story
Warsaw preacher will answer sex charges
A 57-year-old pastor accused of fathering a child with a 12-year-old girl could spend a maximum of 32 years in prison for his alleged involvement with the youth, a Duplin County judge decided this week. Thomas Lindal Robinson of Clinton...Published: Apr 20, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
School district starts looking to fill teacher vacancies
Faced with baby boomers close to retirement, Wayne County Public Schools is working to replenish its teaching pool, hosting the annual job fair Saturday at Goldsboro High School. Marvin McCoy, assistant superintendent for human resources, said he is trying to...Published: Apr 20, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
County's volunteers honored
Red Cross volunteer Joanne Peterson received the President's Lifetime Call to Service Award Wednesday during a luncheon held to honor Wayne County residents who give their time to help their community. Ms. Peterson, who has been traveling nine years with...Published: Apr 20, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Town sets date for trash cleanup
By Sunday, town officials are hoping Mount Olive will be looking a little fresher and a little cleaner. Hosting a town-wide litter sweep on Saturday, with sunny weather and temperatures in the upper-60s to lower-70s predicted, Town Manager Charlie Brown...Published: Apr 20, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Public record
Shooting Goldsboro police are investigating a shooting that left a Goldsboro man injured Wednesday night. Antonio Kelvin McLean, 22, of Central Heights Road, was reportedly hanging out in the 600 block of East Elm Street at 8 p.m. when someone...Published: Apr 20, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Proposed StageStruck building
Photo submitted Above is a drawing of the building proposed for construction next to the new Paramount Theater by the StageStruck theater group. For more information see Rebuilding StageStruck's space....Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Rebuilding StageStruck's space
The Paramount Theater wasn't the only building lost in a fire on Feb. 19, 2005 -- nor will it be the only one reconstructed along Center Street. StageStruck officials said plans are being drawn for a down-sized version of the...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Officers hunt for robbery suspect
Pikeville police are on the hunt for a man who robbed Howell Brothers grocery store on Main Street Wednesday night and touched off a more-than-four-hour manhunt. A man entered Howell Brothers at 101 W. Main St. at about 8:30 p.m....Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Student, 17, caught with switchblade
One day after officials vowed to keep a closer eye on safety in the wake of a mass shooting at Virginia Tech Monday, a Rosewood High School student was found with a knife at school. Anthony Dashaun Gibson, 17, of...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Schools: Budget will not be late
County school officials voiced their anger and displeasure today after Wayne County Commissioner Jack Best asked earlier this week why the county Board of Education had not turned in a budget proposal yet. "By law we have to have a...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Senate OKs law that ends future state hog lagoons
Hog farmers and swine producers weren't surprised this morning to wake up and hear the news that the North Carolina Senate had voted Wednesday to permanently ban any new lagoon and spray field operations. "It really does not surprise me...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Health officials ask schools to ban tobacco
The Wayne County Board of Health wants the county school system to consider a "100 percent tobacco-free school policy," board members said Wednesday. Board member Efton Sager, who made the motion for a resolution, called it a request. "We're not...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Fremont sewer improving
Improvements to Fremont's wastewater system are becoming apparent, an official told the town's Board of Alderman at its Tuesday night meeting. Fremont Public Works Director Tim Howell said wastewater build-up in the system is gradually decreasing. The recent heavy rain...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
GATEWAY's van service rates go up
The Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority voted to raise its rates for van rides during the board's meeting Tuesday. The rate change will not affect GATEWAY's bus routes, which run daily around Goldsboro. But GATEWAY's van services will cost more effective May...Published: Apr 19, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Best: Schools late on budget
Every year the Wayne County Board of Commissioners funds more than 100 departments and outside agencies. So far this year, the only budget proposal County Manager Lee Smith has not received from those entities is one from the Wayne County...Published: Apr 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sheriff: Officers would be prepared
Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders said Monday's shooting rampage at Virginia Tech that claimed 33 lives and wounded 15 others was one of the deadliest tragedies in U.S. history. And he hopes the ordeal will inspire parents to become more...Published: Apr 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
State board will visit WCC later this week
Wayne County residents might know this week if Dr. Kay Albertson will officially be chosen as the new president of Wayne Community College. The State Board of Community Colleges will convene its regular monthly meeting at the WCC campus later...Published: Apr 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Area columnist makes stop at library meeting
Author Celia Rivenbark brought her own brand of humor to Goldsboro Tuesday night, as featured speaker for the annual meeting of the Friends of Wayne County Public Library. Originally from Duplin County, Ms. Rivenbark recalled the last time she had...Published: Apr 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Project Prom Dress
Project Prom Dress will be distributing formal dresses Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Rosewood High School. Staff members will be on hand to accept donated dresses and to help girls find dresses for their prom or formal...Published: Apr 18, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
He was there and scared ... and so were his parents
BLACKSBURG, Va. -- Jacob Sykes spent the better part of Monday afternoon assuring family and friends that he was OK. And he was -- at least physically. A freshman from Goldsboro, Sykes didn't hear the gunshots or take cover from...Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Colleges prepared for emergency
It could have happened on any campus. So as local college officials watched the number of casualties from Monday morning's shooting at Virginia Tech climb, there was no collective sigh of relief among them -- no victory achieved in knowing...Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Pikeville native, former News-Argus reporter wins Pulitzer
During much of his career, Wayne County native and former News-Argus reporter Gene Roberts worked as executive editor of the Philadelphia Inquirer. During his time there, his staff won 17 Pulitzer Prizes. Monday, Roberts won his first one for writing....Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount Olive residents to pay more for water
MOUNT OLIVE -- Utility bills for Mount Olive residents will increase from $52 a month to $54.50 beginning July 1, town officials said. The reason for the increase is a 20 percent increase in garbage collection fees charged to the...Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Circus shows today at 4:30, 7:30
High winds could not stop the Cole Bros. Circus from performing Monday and today at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. Under direction of ringmaster Chris Connors, the acts include extreme riders, bungee jumperss and a woman being shot out of a...Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Investigations Wayne County sheriff's deputies are investigating these reports: *Danny Eugene McCullen reported someone stole his four-wheeler, valued at $4,200 from a home in the 100 block of Selah Church Road. *Soundra Brown reported someone stole her four-wheeler, valued at...Published: Apr 17, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, April 16, 2007
Snow in N.C.? In April?
A spring storm over the weekend brought flood warnings, snow and even hail to parts of the state. But local farmers are calling it a blessing. "We needed the rain, there's no doubt," Cooperative Extension crop agent Kevin Johnson said....Published: Apr 16, 2007 2:07 PM Full Story
There's still time to file taxes, but not until midnight
If you haven't filed your income taxes yet, you've still got some time -- but not as much as you might think. This year, since April 15 was on a Sunday and today is Emancipation Day, the Internal Revenue Service...Published: Apr 16, 2007 2:04 PM Full Story
Relay for Life youth chairman leads with his example of courage
Standing at about 3-feet tall with a boyish smile, Caleb Whitfield doesn't fully understand what it means to be a chairman. After all, he's only 7. For the first time, Wayne County's Relay for Life will have a child as...Published: Apr 16, 2007 2:01 PM Full Story
Local Red Cross chapter wins national honor
The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross received a national awar in Virginia Beach, Va. The chapter was named a Highly Performing Chapter at a Waves of Change Red Cross leadership conference. Only five other Red Cross chapters...Published: Apr 16, 2007 1:58 PM Full Story
Guardian ad Litem volunteers honored
Volunteers were honored at Friday's Guardian ad Litem awards luncheon for giving a voice to abused and neglected children who don't have one of their own. Twelve volunteers received certificates for 10 or more years and a total of 181...Published: Apr 16, 2007 1:54 PM Full Story
Duplin commissioners discuss issues with state legislators
KENANSVILLE -- With the North Carolina General Assembly about two months into its session, the Duplin County Board of Commissioners took advantage of visits by state Rep. Russell Tucker, D-Duplin, and Sen. Charlie Albertson, D-Duplin, to outline their concerns and...Published: Apr 16, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Keep hunting: More pickle clues released
A jar of Mt. Olive Pickles has been hidden in Mount Olive. In the coming weeks, clues like these will be printed that will lead someone to the location of the pickles. *Patti, let's hope it won't be too hot...Published: Apr 16, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Paramount progress: On with the show
With every setback David Weil endures on the road to a new Paramount Theater, words of encouragement and offerings of support pour in tenfold -- a $50,000 check here; a letter from a little boy reading "Thank you," there. Foundation...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:10 AM Full Story
Chilly week takes toll on area crops
With lows falling into the mid- to upper-20s during Easter weekend in both Wayne and Duplin counties, farmers and North Carolina Cooperative Extension agents have spent much of the past week assessing the damage to the counties' crops. And while...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Forum will put focus on Latino issues
The state's unprecedented surge of immigrants in recent years has prompted local officials to organize a regional symposium on Latino issues next month. Area community leaders are being invited to participate in the discussion, which will be May 7 at...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:08 AM Full Story
Wayne Dems choose Quinn as party chief as campaigns begin
The Wayne County Democratic Party has elected Bronnie Quinn as its new chairman. About 60 people attended the 2007 convention held Saturday in the Wayne County Courthouse. Quinn replaces Gaspar Gonzalez, who served one term as chairman. Other officers chosen...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:07 AM Full Story
Taking care of the Earth
Kheyonna Hightower recycles everything at home and collects soda bottles to help preserve the environment. The 7-year-old and her mother, Ebonnie, were among those who took part in the first Earth Day celebration at the Wayne County Public Library on...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Duplin health department asking for salary hike for its nurses
Duplin County's health department isn't in dire straits and contrary to some rumors, it isn't faced with the prospect of closing its doors. But, director Ila Davis said, it is in need of help. Currently she's faced with three nursing...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
Goldsboro doctor running for Academy's top post
Dr. Dave Tayloe of Goldsboro Pediatrics is one of two candidates vying for the presidency of the American Academy of Pediatrics later this year. He was among eight interviewed the last weekend in February, he said, before the national nominating...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
Educator earns posthumous award
From staff reports Ann Erwin Spicer, who taught at Wayne Community College until her death in January, has been posthumously honored for her contributions with students. Ms. Spicer was selected as the N.C. Association for Developmental Edu-cation's 2007 Outstanding Develop-mental...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:04 AM Full Story
Wayne Christian seniors unearth time capsule
Former Wayne Christian School teacher June Brown calls her students from 2000 "the best fifth-grade class ever." To make their year even more memorable, she and Donna Little, the other fifth- grade teacher, decided to bury a time capsule the...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
Public record
The Goldsboro Police Department is trying to find out who shot into a Goldsboro man's car and sent him to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries shortly after midnight Saturday. Masonic Harvey, 24, of Wilmington Avenue was sitting in his 2001...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Historical Association seeks more members
The Wayne County Historical Association is seeking executive committee members to help run the museum. The Association elected Preston Garris to a full two-year term as president and Jane Rustin of the Wayne County Public Library as vice president this...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Public hearings headline agenda
Two public hearings will headline a short docket Monday, as Goldsboro City Council is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. in the second-floor conference room at City Hall. The first, a zoning request from Robert Howell, involves property located on...Published: Apr 15, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, April 13, 2007
Going, going, gone - 4H'ers show and sell livestock
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Jesse Grady, Grand Champion in the Junior Feeder Calf Division, proudly presents his 625-pound calf for auction at the 59th annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale Thursday. The calf sold for $3,125. For more information...Published: Apr 13, 2007 2:08 PM Full Story
Bill would put a cap on Medicaid burden
If the number of legislators sponsoring a bill is any indication, it doesn't appear that North Carolina's counties will see their Medicaid burden lifted this year, but it will continue to be capped at its 2005-06 levels. With 119 of...Published: Apr 13, 2007 2:06 PM Full Story
Elderly drivers are not top cause of crashes
Elderly drivers aren't the leading cause of vehicle accidents, but family members who are concerned have options to get an aging parent or grandparent off the road, state officials say. A string of accidents involving elderly drivers in Wayne County...Published: Apr 13, 2007 2:03 PM Full Story
Showing for highest bids
Rachel McCullen thought she and her hog were getting the old heave-ho out of the ring. The 9-year-old's 275-pound market hog was being rambunctious during Thursday's 59th annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale, and it caught the judge's...Published: Apr 13, 2007 2:00 PM Full Story
Battle over right to brag still rages in barbecue fight
The Lexington Barbecue Festival might have taken one step closer to being named North Carolina's official food festival, but Thursday's state House vote didn't settle one of the longest-standing debates in Raleigh. Rather, Rep. Louis Pate, R-Wayne, said his decision...Published: Apr 13, 2007 1:56 PM Full Story
Duplin School Board says vote on supplements was not correct
KENANSVILLE -- After months of hearing teachers complain about how they were mistreated by the Duplin County Board of Education when it distributed staff supplements in December, the school system's administrators finally had their turn Tuesday night. Their complaint, though,...Published: Apr 13, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
Public record
Drug arrest Agents of the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Task Force arrested one suspected drug dealer during an undercover operation in Dudley this week. Francisco Vera, 37, of U.S. 117 South Alternate, Dudley, faces charges of possession with intent to sell...Published: Apr 13, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, April 12, 2007
First signs of fair
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Although he did not win, 8-year-old Dalton Ginn gets a thumbs-up from judge John Rayfield for his performance in the Junior Meat Goat Show, Novice Division, at the 59th Annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale,...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:55 PM Full Story
Goldsboro police search for groper on store tape
Goldsboro police are searching for a man who allegedly groped a 10-year-old girl at Kmart on Berkeley Boulevard last month and made sexually explicit remarks to the child. Sgt. Dot Ardes, Goldsboro-Wayne Crime Stoppers law enforcement coordinator, said the incident...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:53 PM Full Story
Fighting to get Joseph back home
Few members of the Hargrove family talk about it -- not because they want to forget, but because going back to the day they learned that their son, Joseph, was gone, remembering how it took 20 years to find out...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:51 PM Full Story
County 4-H'ers livestock show
Events got under way early at the county fairgrounds Wednesday morning for the nearly 60 children involved in the 59th Annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale. After weighing in their animals, which included 44 pigs, 42 goats and...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Wayne County Planning Board recommends against rezoning for cell tower
Faced with a rezoning request to build a cellular phone tower about a mile-and-a-half south of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's main runway, the Wayne County Planning Board voted unanimously Tuesday night to send the proposal on to the county...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:48 PM Full Story
Seven Springs will consider beer sales
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Voters might get to decide in November whether beer can be sold in Seven Springs. The Seven Springs Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 Wednesday night during its regular meeting to ask the Wayne County Board of Elections...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
Public record
GPD officers issue multiple traffic citations Officers of the Goldsboro Police Department took to the streets last week in search of speeders, drunken drivers and other violators during the "No Need 2 Speed" traffic enforcement campaign. During the campaign, which...Published: Apr 12, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Berkeley sidewalks - crews still need a month
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber An early morning shower gave Goldsboro residents a break from traffic woes along Berkeley Boulevard, but when the weather clears, city crews will be back on the side of the road installing sidewalks. General Services Director Joe...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Is there an end in sight for traffic delays on Berkeley?
Traffic woes along Berkeley Boulevard are expected to end in the near future, officials said Tuesday. General Services Director Joe Sawyer said he expects his crew to finish its sidewalk installation project sometime around the first week of May. The...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Safety urged at Busco Beach
The death of a Raleigh man, who died from injuries he sustained in a four-wheeler accident at Busco Beach on Sunday, has rekindled an ongoing debate about safety at the sprawling recreational facility. Bobby Keith Renfrow, 31, died from severe...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Duplin School Board takes look at facilities possibilities
KENANSVILLE -- With a 2005 facilities study already in hand, the Duplin Board of Education took a look Tuesday night at that plan and continued the process of deciding whether it should be changed or followed. It's a decision that...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Goldsboro physician earns post as treasurer of national group
Dr. James Stackhouse, an internist with Goldsboro Medical Specialists, will begin a three-year term as treasurer of the American College of Physicians when the annual meeting is held in San Diego April 19-21. As part of his duties, he will...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Smith: Work in N.C. Senate won't suffer from campaign
State Sen. Fred Smith, R-Johnston, is campaigning for governor, but that doesn't mean he is ignoring his duties in the Senate. "I think I'm meeting the needs of the people in my district," he said Tuesday after leading a devotional...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Vendor signup deadline extended for Cinco de Mayo health event
April 30 is the deadline for vendors and information booth sign-ups for the Cinco de Mayo Festival and health fair set for May 5 at the Waynesborough Historical Village. The festival will be from noon until 5 p.m. and will...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery The search continues for an armed robber who robbed a business on George Street Friday. David Hood of Hood Equipment, 1211 S. George St., said a man held him at gunpoint at the business and took his wallet,...Published: Apr 11, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Wayne Memorial Hospital translator
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Miss Okano talks with Gloria Wences while she sits with her newborn baby daughter, Itsel, in the Labor and Delivery ward at the hospital. She is one of five interpreters at the hospital who help Spanish-speaking patients....Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Officers break up local ring, rescue 30
A Wayne County man accused of smuggling illegal immigrants into the country is behind bars at the Wayne County Jail after a joint-operation with the FBI and Wayne County Sheriff's Office SWAT team. Anmer Uliser Salas Zunun, 25, of 201...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Speaking their language
Alfie Okano often imagines that she is the patient waiting behind curtains and closed doors -- scared, confused and unable to communicate with the doctors and nurses at her bedside. She, too, has been that person who could not read,...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman found in trailer after fire
The body of a 54-year-old woman was pulled from a mobile home on Stoney Creek Church Road that caught fire early Sunday. Billy Jean Ellis was inside the home as flames swept through her single-wide trailer leaving only charred metal,...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville teen injured afer losing control of his vehicle
A 16-year-old teen was injured Sunday when he lost control of his car on U.S. 117 North in Pikeville, struck several objects and landed in a yard. Khiry Tayvon Reid of Sycamore Street, Fremont, was traveling north on U.S. 117...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Parks chief has big plans for future of Cliffs of Neuse
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Lyndon Sutton remembers those glorious "old days." He recalls with fondness when all the campsites at Cliffs of the Neuse were filled on weekends. He remembers the campfires, the songs, the camaraderie, the people. He longs for...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Duplin commission OKs events center contract
KENANSVILLE -- Nearly two years after the contract was signed, the Duplin County Board of Commissioners is finally giving Compass Facility Management Inc. the leeway its leadership team says it needs to properly run the Duplin County Events Center. Voting...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
McKee to address why parents kill
Author and speaker Dr. Geoffrey McKee will conduct a workshop this month to explain why some parents kill their children -- and how to spot the signs before they snap. A professor at the University of South Carolina School of...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Investigations Wayne County sheriff's deputies are investigating these reports: *Edward Keith Hales reported someone stole two Yamaha four-wheelers, valued at $5,000, from his home in the 400 block of Loop Road. *Teresa Crawford Lofton reported someone broke into her home...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Dr. Bhatti retains membership
Muhammad A. Bhatti, MD, MPH, FAAFP from Wayne Family Medical Center, Inc. and Bella Reneux Medical Spa in Goldsboro, has completed continuing medical education requirements for the 2004 through 2006 term to retain membership in the American Academy of Family...Published: Apr 10, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, April 9, 2007
County battles big chill
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Ice covers a field of strawberries on U.S. 117 South Sunday morning in the Mar-Mac area. The sprinklers were used to form a coat of ice over the plants to protect them from the tempertures that dipped...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
County farmers put strawberries on ice
An alarm sounds in the middle of the night in E.L. Smith's bedroom when the temperature outside drops to 36 degrees. "If the alarm goes off, I go to running," said the strawberry grower. But Saturday night, Smith was ready...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Students chosen for teacher scholarships
Sixteen Wayne County Public Schools students and two alternates have been named recipients of the 2007 North Carolina Teaching Fellows scholarship. The Teacher Fellows program is designed to attract talented high school seniors to become public school teachers in the...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont seeks owners of 44 stored weapons
Fremont's new police chief wants to unload more than 44 guns stored in his evidence locker, so he is turning to the community for help. Chief Ron Rawlings published a list of guns in a local newspaper in an effort...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Owners will honor pets at Relay for Life in May
For LeeAnn Boykin, Wayne County's upcoming Relay for Life will be about fighting for a cure for cancer -- and remembering loved ones of all shapes and sizes. Mrs. Boykin lost her 12-year-old German shepherd Precious to cancer on Dec....Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Volunteers sought for Neuse cleanup
The Neuse River Foundation is seeking volunteers in canoes and kayaks as well as folks along the shoreline to help clear the river banks of litter. The cleanup will be Saturday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. come rain or...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Officials warn not to burn until it rains
Weather and forest officials are warning those who plan to burn trash today to be careful -- or better yet, to wait. No ban is in effect, but Forest Ranger Dwight Bright said it would be best to put burning...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Bus drivers capture top honors at competition
James Shepard, a bus driver for Tommy's Road Elementary School, won a recent School Bus "Road-e-o" sponsored by the Wayne County Public Schools. Shepard mastered the obstacle course and will move on to compete at the upcoming district competition in...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Students recognized for high test scores
High SAT Scores qualified 19 Wayne County Public Schools seventh graders for state recognition in the Duke Talent Identification Program, or TIP. After scores were tallied, the students' test scores put them in the top 25 percent of the talent...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Goldsboro police are searching for a man who robbed a business on George Street at gunpoint on Friday and got away with $400 cash. Police responded to Hood Equipment, 1211 S. George St., about 8:35 a.m. Friday after...Published: Apr 9, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Carson Thomas takes his next step toward recovery
Nearly 18 months after being struck by a vehicle while crossing the street outside Greenwood Middle School, Carson Thomas is back in school. A lot has happened since the November 2005 accident that sent him and eighth-grade classmate Mackenzie Wessels...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Legislators explain Senate's vote on slavery apology
It wasn't an apology born out of guilt, Wayne County members of the General Assembly said, nor was it an apology made under duress. Rather, they said, Thursday's Senate apology for slavery and segregation was made because it was the...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Student who died was on way to get prom tux
Friends and family said goodbye Saturday to the Princeton High School senior who died Wednesday in a two-vehicle accident on U.S. 70 West and Old Cornwallis Road not far from the Wayne County line. The funeral for James Stuart Cook,...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
County grand jury sends up charges
A convicted sex offender accused in a rape and in sexual assaults on several women will soon have his day in court. Rodney Levon Williams, 35, of Frank Street, was indicted by the Wayne County Grand Jury Monday on 22...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
City Hall work expected to start sometime in May
Renovation and restoration of Goldsboro's original City Hall is expected to begin next month, officials said. Assistant finance director Kaye Scott said financing for the $4 million project was approved Wednesday by the Local Government Commission. BB&T will manage the...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Group honored for work on crime
Goldsboro-Wayne Crime Stoppers was honored with a special award in Asheville last month for the organization's efforts to get criminals off the streets. The 2006 Productivity Award for programs with a population between 100,000 and 199,999 was presented during the...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Free childbirth classes planned
A six-week series of free childbirth preparation classes is scheduled to begin April 24 at the Partnership for Children office, 800 N. William St. The classes, from 6 to 8 p.m., will provide information on prenatal nutrition; stages of pregnancy;...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Volunteer of the Year shares gift of her time
Cornelia Grundmeier has been behind the counter at the Community Soup Kitchen for more than 10 years -- once choosing to seek a part-time job rather than give up her weekly volunteer work. That's how important her work there is...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
New re-enactors sought for new battles this spring
Civil War re-enactors are seeking new recruits to dress up and pretend to do battle. The 27th N.C. Regiment, Co. D is looking in central and eastern North Carolina for soldiers to join up for the spring campaign. The 27th...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Habitat for Humanity sets informational meeting date
MOUNT OLIVE -- Partners for Habitat in Mount Olive will sponsor an informational meeting April 12 at 6 p.m. in the Mount Olive Senior Center Building, 711 Northwest Center St., Mount Olive. Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne and Partners for...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Author will speak to Friends of the Library
Author and humorist Celia Rivenbark will be the speaker at the annual meeting of the Friends of the Wayne County Public Library. The meeting will be April 17 at 7 p.m. in the Gertrude Weil Auditorium at the Main Library,...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin board puts freeze on disputed supplements
KENANSVILLE -- With concerns about the distribution of supplements for school personnel being voiced again this past week, the Duplin County Board of Education took a step to try to diffuse the tension that situation has created. Voting unanimously, the...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Community ceremony urges residents to stop child abuse, neglect
Wayne County residents united this past week to challenge their community to make child abuse and neglect prevention a 365-day effort. The WAGES/Wayne County For Children Council sponsored the event, which was held Thursday on the steps of city hall....Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Entries sought for abstinence essay contest
Area high school students are again being invited to weigh in on the benefits of abstinence in preventing teen pregnancy. The fifth annual abstinence essay contest, sponsored by Wayne County Health Department and the Wayne Council on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention,...Published: Apr 8, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, April 6, 2007
Bunny needed a parka
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Marla Locke-Demers looks to see what’s inside a plastic egg with her sons Matthew, left, and Joshua at the Herman Park Center on Thursday. Despite the chillier temperatures, the annual event drew a large crowd. Children were...Published: Apr 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
More than $80,000 raised for Red Cross
Local "heroes" raised a total of $82,417 for the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross this year. The announcement was made at a Heroes Campaign wrap-up luncheon Thursday. With beach balls, balloon fish and beach pails and shovels...Published: Apr 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wallace PD chief upset at arrest of officer
The arrest Tuesday night of a Wallace police officer came as a disappointment to Chief Bob Maready, but he's hoping it won't damage his force's reputation. "It's disappointing to everybody and it's especially disappointing to anybody in law enforcement when...Published: Apr 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
A faster way to send those get-well wishes
Imagine living far away or being on vacation and learning a loved one had been hospitalized. You want to check on her, but are unsure about the best time to call and don't want to wake her if she's resting....Published: Apr 6, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Cold snap coming - but growers are not too worried, yet
News-Argus/Bonnie Edwards Jesse Lopez moves a mower across young tobacco plants, cutting them to keep them from growing too tall before they can be transplanted at the Daw farm in northern Wayne County. For more information see Area tobacco,...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Residents will oppose alcohol permit
Residents who oppose a 15,000-square-foot Hispanic nightclub under construction on N.C. 55 West and Jerusalem Road in Seven Springs are organizing to stop the club from selling alcohol. Resident Blue Martin said he opposes Club 55 El Abuelo because he...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Officer arrested on drug charges
A Wallace police officer was arrested at the Wallace Police Department by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations Tuesday on six drug and robbery charges. David Brown Jr. was taken into custody at about 11 p.m., according to a...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
City plans new round of meetings with citizens
Gunshots, flooding and teens roaming the streets at all hours of the night were just a few of the concerns voiced by Goldsboro residents during last year's city-sponsored neighborhood meetings. City officials said they are not sure what issues will...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Area tobacco, corn growers not too worried about frost
Tobacco and corn growers in Wayne County are not too worried about the frost that is forecast for tonight, but are hoping the temperature drop will really just be a snap. The National Weather Service in Raleigh is predicting lows...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Man faces statutory rape charge
A 54-year-old Wayne County man faces statutory rape charges in connection with his alleged relationship with a 14-year-old girl, authorities said. Senus Lofton of Prayer House Lane in Dudley was charged with one count of statutory rape in connection with...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Students get chance to see possibilities
In less than three months, a business and entrepreneurship program at Goldsboro High School is showing signs of accomplishing its mission -- helping students see possibilities for their futures, school officials say. Granville Academy was launched in January with 39...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Princeton man dies in crash
PRINCETON -- A Princeton High School student died and two others were injured in a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 70 West and Old Cornwallis Road. James Cook, 20, of 241 Old Pebble Lane, Kenly, died from injuries he received in...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Body recovered The body of Kevin Elvins, 21, of Dawson Creek Drive, Stantonsburg, was found at a home located at 1564 Lancaster Road at 11:30 p.m. April 3. Authorities said Elvins died after ingesting insecticide. No foul play was suspected....Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Festival releases second round of pickle hunt clues
A jar of Mt. Olive Pickles has been hidden in Mount Olive. In the coming weeks, clues like these will be printed that will lead someone to the location of the pickles. Here is the next set of clues: *Bring...Published: Apr 5, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
The Newest Top Gun
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Goldsboro Mayor Al King gives a thumbs-up before his first ride in an F-15E on Tuesday. Even though he's a retired lieutenant colonel and has piloted other planes, this was King's first flight in a Strike Eagle....Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
Man convicted in officer's shooting
A Goldsboro man convicted last month on federal charges stemming from the March 15, 2006, shooting of a local drug agent will learn his fate this summer. Bobby Rawlings, 59, of East Elm Street, was convicted March 27 on one...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:46 PM Full Story
County OKs bid to add acres to salvage
Ricky Young can expand upon his salvage yard off U.S. 117 South in Dudley thanks to a vote by the Wayne County Board of Commissioners Tuesday morning. But the process taken to get to that vote was questioned by some...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Churches set date for joint service
First Presbyterian and St. Paul United Methodist churches will have a joint service with Holy Communion and Tenebrae Maundy Thursday at 7 p.m. at St. Paul, 204 E. Chestnut St. Tenebrae is also known as the "service of darkness," and...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Senator visits Dillard Middle to see NCLB program firsthand
Visiting Dillard Middle School Tuesday to celebrate the success of the school's new literacy program, U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, R-North Carolina, made it clear that while he agrees that No Child Left Behind needs to be reformed, he does not...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Highway Patrol launches Easter speed crackdown
Wayne County drivers -- slow down. Troopers will be out in force over the Easter holiday weekend looking for speeders, aggressive drivers and other violators during the Operation Slow Down highway traffic enforcement campaign. "The Highway Patrol will increase patrols...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Two injured in accident on N.C. 111
Two men are recovering from injuries they received in a head-on collision that occurred on N.C. 111 South near Rifle Range Road Monday afternoon. Dennis Hill, 52, of Deep Run, was traveling south on N.C. 111 in a silver Honda...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
*Police are investigating a shooting that occurred early Wednesday in the 1700 block of Edgerton Street. Lequan Battle, 19, of Holly Street, reported someone shot him in the legs several times with a small caliber weapon. He was taken to...Published: Apr 4, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Shelter vote - Council approves new location
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Goldsboro City Council member the Rev. Charles Williams, right, states his reasons for voting against the approved plans to allow for an animal shelter to be built within the city limits at Monday night’s city council meeting....Published: Apr 3, 2007 2:11 PM Full Story
Fremont murder suspect arrested
A Wilson man stands accused in the death of his girlfriend whose body was found at her cousin's house in Fremont Saturday. Antonia Leatis Artis, 35, of Goldsboro Street, Wilson, faces an open count of murder in the death of...Published: Apr 3, 2007 2:08 PM Full Story
Shelter site gets city OK
Before Goldsboro City Council members voted on a zoning request from Wayne County that would allow for construction of an animal shelter inside the city limits, the Rev. Charles Williams voiced strong opposition. "We have some churches that are in...Published: Apr 3, 2007 2:05 PM Full Story
Pet food recalls troubling residents
Veterinarian Terry Frazier has switched his dogs at home to Pedigree and might clear out all the Hill's Pet Nutrition from his office. He is one of many pet owners who are watching the news to see which foods will...Published: Apr 3, 2007 2:02 PM Full Story
Houses moved to city list to demolish
Two dilapidated houses were condemned Monday when Chief Building Inspector Ed Cianfarra told Goldsboro City Council members that the homeowners failed to bring their properties up to minimum housing standards -- despite several warnings from his office to do so....Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:59 PM Full Story
Duplin commissioners tax idea hits one-vote blockade
KENANSVILLE -- The majority of Duplin County commissioners asked for his help, but a second 5-to-1 vote wasn't enough to convince state Sen. Charlie Albertson, D-Duplin, to pledge his support for their request for a local option half-cent sales tax....Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:57 PM Full Story
Gonzalez takes on position as county magistrate judge
The leader of the Hispanic Cultural Center and the chairman of the Wayne County Democratic Party is taking on a new role. Gaspar R. Gonzalez, 74, of Goldsboro, has been tapped to join the ranks at the Wayne County Magistrate's...Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:54 PM Full Story
Partnership is selling tickets for Lobster Fest
The Partnership for Children is currently taking orders for its third annual Lobster Fest, to be held on Friday, May 4. Tickets are currently on sale for $25 each and the public is invited to order them in advance. Proceeds...Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:52 PM Full Story
Public record
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is investigating the following reports: *Thieves entered an unlocked 2003 Ford van owned by Hector Escalera Jr. while it was parked at his home on Westover Drive and took the sound system, a television monitor...Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:50 PM Full Story
Looking for jar of winning pickles? See these clues.
North Carolina Pickle Treasure Hunt 2007 is under way. A jar of Mt. Olive Pickles has been hidden in Mount Olive. In the coming weeks, clues like these will be printed that will lead someone to the location of the...Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:47 PM Full Story
Bus schedule set for holiday week
The Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority, of GATEWAY, will be operating on holiday schedule later this week for Good Friday. The bus service will operate from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The van service will operate on its normal schedule, but passengers...Published: Apr 3, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, April 2, 2007
Pikeville Navy man served on newly decommissioned USS John F. Kennedy
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Pikeville resident George Vrbetic displays a picture of the USS John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier. Vrbetic was a chief petty officer in the U.S. Navy and served on the aircraft carrier after the Korean Conflict. For more...Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Auto tax hike proposal worries dealers
Legislation being considered in Raleigh could more than double the state's Highway Use Tax, a move that has local car dealers concerned. The intent of Senate Bill 1201, which is sponsored by five-term Sen. Daniel Clodfelter, D-Mecklenburg, is to address...Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
On board history
He was there when it was being built. He oversaw the installation of what some might say were its most important parts. He was standing on the deck when it first shoved off from Norfolk, Va. And he would have...Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Salvage yard is back on agenda for Wayne Commissioners
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners will consider a change to the zoning map Tuesday morning that would allow for the expansion of a salvage yard on U.S. 117 South after several months of public hearings and tabling the issue....Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
New program will take county preschool classes on the road
A yellow school bus is being converted into a classroom that will travel around the county and help preschoolers get a running start on their education, officials say. Wee Wings, the mobile preschool classroom being offered through Wayne County Public...Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Habitat for Humanity is looking for families
Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro and Wayne County will have an informational meeting at 6 p.m. today in the WAGES building on Royall Avenue. Habitat has closed on several Harris Street properties and will be pouring foundation to begin construction...Published: Apr 2, 2007 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, April 1, 2007
O'Berry marking its 50th birthday
O'Berry Center celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, with an array of activities and events planned to commemorate the occasion. The state-operated facility, which serves individuals with developmental disabilities, has a distinguished history of providing quality services and innovative programs,...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:10 AM Full Story
Livestock show, sale coming in mid-April
Following one of the most successful years in its history, local children and farmers are gearing up for the 59th Annual Wayne County Junior Livestock Show and Sale. The sale, which will be April 11-12 at the Wayne Regional Fairgrounds,...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:09 AM Full Story
Growing up as a mother
At 14, Anna Gurganus thought she had such "a humdrum life" she couldn't wait to get out of high school. But that was before she became pregnant and married at age 15. Suddenly, any plans she had came to a...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:08 AM Full Story
Daffodils take over in Fremont
FREMONT -- Kelly Williams had been waiting for weeks to celebrate the end of winter. You don't want to scare the warm weather away with premature skirt wearing and trips to the beach, she said. But Saturday afternoon, the sun...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:07 AM Full Story
Dilapidated houses, vote on shelter on city agenda
Goldsboro Chief Building Inspector Ed Cianfarra is expected to recommend two dilapidated houses for condemnation Monday evening as Goldsboro City Council members are scheduled to hold their first meeting of the month. The properties, located at 703 Holly Street and...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:06 AM Full Story
Fremont police get new taser
Fremont police Chief Ron Rawlings knows the small town he serves doesn't have the resources to put more officers on the street. So, he decided to give them more fire power. Rawlings asked the Fremont Town Board to purchase a...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:05 AM Full Story
Network will offer help for families
Cindy Jackson is the mother of a special needs child. But when Molly was born three years ago, they did not have the support and information that is available today. "We came home with a piece of paper. We relied...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:04 AM Full Story
Top choral students to perform Tuesday
Wayne County Public Schools' choral students in grades 6-12, will perform in the 2007 All County Choral Festival Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at Dillard Middle School. Choral directors from each middle school and high school selected students to participate for...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:03 AM Full Story
Tommy's Road class learns about Korea
A group of Tommy's Road Elementary kindergarten students is using a Learn and Serve grant to show their support of Seymour Johnson airmen currently deployed to Korea. Lori Smith, a Tommy's Road Elementary kindergarten teacher wrote for the grant and...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
Public record
Gasoline drive-off Employees at the Trade Wilco Hess on New Hope Road told Goldsboro police officers Friday that an unidentified man filled his vehicle with $8 in unleaded gasoline and left without paying. No description of the car was available...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:02 AM Full Story
MOC students meet, thank donors
MOUNT OLIVE -- Nearly 600 students at Mount Olive College are receiving scholarship money to help cover such needs as tuition and books, with an estimated $2.4 million given out this school year. During the college's annual scholarship banquet, recipients...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:01 AM Full Story
Eleven county students chosen to attend Governor's School
Eleven area students have been selected to participate in the 2007 Governor's School this summer. Governor's School is the oldest statewide summer residential program in the nation for academically/intellectually gifted high school students. Open only to rising seniors, exceptions are...Published: Apr 1, 2007 2:00 AM Full Story