Monday, March 31, 2008
Keeping bird flu away
News-Argus/Matthew Whittle With more than 32,000 turkeys in his six houses, third-generation farmer Billy Hardy of LaGrange is careful about making sure his investments stay healthy. For more information see Turkey health watch: Keeping bird flu away....Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Program to target domestic violence
Domestic violence is a community problem, and it's not going away. If you don't believe that, says victims' advocate Milton Costin, "Just stop by Courtroom 6 any Monday." Costin, director of Wayne Uplift Domestic Violence Program, said the courtroom is...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
McCrory wants to change Raleigh's attitude
For Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory there are few differences between the needs of eastern North Carolina, the Triangle and the mountains. To him, he said as he traveled through Goldsboro Friday, it's all one state. "We're giving the same message...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Turkey health watch: Keeping bird flu away
Today, several years removed from the height of the avian flu scares in 2005 and 2006, state health and agricultural experts are confident that while the threat still exists, it has at least been minimized in North Carolina. In North...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Safety begins on farm, producers say
For Billy Hardy, a third-generation Lenoir County farmer, turkeys have been a way of life for the last 23 years, and he is not interested in that changing. "We used to grow tobacco, but I got out to focus on...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Lieutenant governor candidate promises help for middle class
Meeting with party leaders and supporters while campaigning in Goldsboro recently for the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor, Greg Dority is emphasizing the need to help the middle class. "The middle class folks are the ones who carry the state...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
County likely to suspend landfill tipping fees to encourage cleanup
Meeting Tuesday, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners is expected to declare April 26 "Amnesty Day" at the county landfill on Landfill Road in Dudley. That means that on that day tipping fees will be waived for county residents --...Published: Mar 31, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Miss Goldsboro 2008
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Lisa Kristen Mace reacts after being announced Miss Goldsboro during the Miss Goldsboro Scholarship Pageant 2008 on Saturday at the Paramount Theatre. Preparing to give Miss Mace the crown is Miss Goldsboro 2007 Nicki Sanderson. For more...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:06 PM Full Story
Here she is...
Although 10 women walked the stage of the newly rebuilt Paramount Theatre in their swimsuits and evening gowns Saturday night, only one could be crowned Miss Goldsboro 2008. And this year, that crown and sash belongs to Lisa Mace....Published: Mar 30, 2008 1:58 PM Full Story
Minority student numbers down at Wayne Community College
Recruiting and retaining minority students concerns officials at Wayne Community College. Despite support efforts, including the addition of minority clubs and receipt of a three-year grant targeting the problem, the number of non-white students continues to drop. Currently, minority...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
$80,000 in fake goods seized at two stores
Depending on where he or she buys them, a pair of "True Religion" brand jeans can run a shopper more than $700 retail. And that pricey denim was among more than $80,000 in other counterfeit items seized from two Goldsboro...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Daffodils Festival draws hundreds despite weather
FREMONT -- The rain might have helped the daffodils, but it also kept crowds from thinking spring in Fremont Saturday afternoon. The 22nd annual Daffodil Festival began with warmer weather, but as the day went on, those attending the festival...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Scouts to honor retiring state Sen. John Kerr
State Sen. John Kerr will receive the Tuscarora Boy Scout Council's Distinguished Citizen Award April 14 at Walnut Creek Country Club. Tuscarora Council Executive Harold Keller said the invitations went out this week for the event, which begins with a...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Pulitzer Prize winner Roberts to speak Friday at WCC
Special to The News-Argus Wayne County Reads has rescheduled award-winning author Gene Roberts to speak on Friday at 7 p.m. in the Moffatt Auditorium at Wayne Community College. He was originally set to appear in February, but inclement weather prevented...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Wayne Community College tests emergency plan with mock 'shooting'
Wayne Community College was in lockdown for more than three hours Thursday as staff and more than 65 representatives from emergency agencies participated in a mock crisis exercise on the campus. The staged event allowed the college to put...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Rabies clinics scheduled for April 5, April 12
From staff reports Wayne County will sponsor rabies vaccination clinics two weekends in April at the locations listed below. The cost is $5 per dog or cat, or pet owners can take their pet to a veterinarian for the shot....Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne Junior Livestock Show winners listed
These were the winners in the 60th Annual Junior Livestock Show and Sale held at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fairgrounds last week. Banners Grand Champion Feeder Calf, Dalton Ginn; Reserve Champion, Virginia Grady; Grand Champion Meat Goat, Marisa Linton; Reserve...Published: Mar 30, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 28, 2008
Abandoned car raises alarm at Seymour
A suspicious car parked outside Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's Berkeley Boulevard gate caused a stir late Thursday morning for base and city officials alike. The incident began when an "abandoned vehicle" was identified in the base visitors center parking...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Three armed robberies reported
Goldsboro police investigated an armed robbery and another weapon-involving robbery attempt within a few hours of one another, according to reports. In the same time period, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office handled another armed robbery on 117 South in Dudley,...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
City water revenues increasing
The city of Goldsboro has been watching thousands of dollars go downstream for months now. Ever since the third and most restrictive phase of mandatory conservation measures took effect on Nov. 5, the quantity of water going out to residents...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story
Duplin, Sampson wait on power plant decision
By Monday, Duplin County officials are hoping to find out whether or not their $3.5 million tax grant incentive proposal is going to pay off as they wait for poultry waste management company Fibrowatt to announce its choice between Duplin...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
Public records
Cocaine raid A Whitfield Drive resident had two grams of cocaine when the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad stopped his light blue Lincoln four-door sedan on Royall Avenue, according to city police reports and a Drug Squad news release. Phillip Michael...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
United Way searching for testimonies from recipients
United Way of Wayne County is looking for individuals who are willing to share their experiences with how the organization improved their lives. United Way hopes to identify up to two individuals to be featured in the 2008 campaign materials...Published: Mar 28, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 27, 2008
SJAFB locked down after abandoned car spotted
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Seymour Johnson Air Force Base was locked down this morning after officials found an abandoned car near the main gate. No threat was found, and the car was towed. For more information, please see tomorrow's Goldsboro News-Argus....Published: Mar 27, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story
State of Wayne presented by chamber
Listening to the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce's 2008 State of the Community program Wednesday morning, Peter Appleton found himself feeling slightly disappointed. "I think this is all good," the Mount Olive College associate professor of agribusiness said about the...Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Club 55 neighbors await decision
SEVEN SPRINGS -- Irate neighbors of a Hispanic culture-themed nightclub have until at least April 4 to hear if the club can sell beer, an official said. Two dozen people jammed into a Cherry Hospital basement conference room in January,...Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story
Wayne Junior Livestock Show continues today at fairgrounds
Lucky might have made the biggest splash, but Wednesday evening belonged to a 6-month-old goat named Education and its exhibitor, Elizabeth Rowe. Dozens of spectators joined more than 30 young people ages 5-19 at the Wayne Regional Fairgrounds Wednesday night...Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story
Jaycees seeking award nominations
The Goldsboro Jaycees are looking for a few good citizens. The Distinguished Service Awards are coming up, and nominations are currently being accepted for outstanding citizens in seven categories. The Outstanding Senior Citizen Award recognizes people over the age of...Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story
Betty Kemp to be honored by Girl Scouts on May 8
Longtime Girl Scout volunteer Betty Kemp will be named a Woman of Distinction by the N.C. Coastal Pines Girl Scouts during a recognition banquet May 8 at the Goldsboro Country Club. Invitations are going out this week for the event....Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story
Walnut Creek eyes 10-year plan
What will the Village of Walnut Creek will look like in 2018? Planning board members and Village Council members will soon be looking into the development of a 10-year plan for the village, they said at their meeting Wednesday night....Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story
Georgia-Pacific blast probed
DUDLEY -- An explosion at a Georgia-Pacific wood processing plant means a safety investigation by the N.C. Department of Labor, a spokesman said. Sawdust in four remote collection bins at the facility exploded and caught fire around 10:15 p.m. Tuesday....Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Public record
Wrench through window Rachel Brown reported someone threw a wrench through a $50 window at her home in the 3000 block of East Ash Street early on Wednesday morning, Goldsboro police said. Thefts reported *Joyce Ward of East Holly Street...Published: Mar 27, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Georgia-Pacific fire
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Firefighters from five volunteer fire departments responded to an explosion at the Georgia-Pacific plant in Dudley shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday. The blast could be heard for a mile in every direction, residents said. Firefighters were on...Published: Mar 26, 2008 2:04 PM Full Story
WCC trustees approve small fee increases
Wayne Community College Board of Trustees Tuesday night approved a small increase in its student activity fee, slightly altered its admissions policy for undocumented immigrants and moved up the May meeting date to allow more discussion time for the long-range...Published: Mar 26, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story
Georgia-Pacific blast rocks neighborhood but no one hurt
No one was hurt in an explosion and minor fire at Georgia-Pacific wood processing facility last night, authorities said. But Plant Manager Charles McLendon told Dudley Assistant Fire Chief Don Garner the incident caused $20,000 in damages to an oriented...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Pikeville discusses library future
PIKEVILLE -- One Pikeville town commissioner discussed a commitment to "always" keeping a library in Pikeville, as the mayor lamented possible effects of a countywide library plan. Newly-elected Commissioner Dennis Lewis said he thought Pikeville should continue funding libraries even...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
Rec center planning fine-tuned
Don't expect to buy a hot dog or nachos once the new Community Recreation Center opens. The facility won't have a full kitchen facility, mostly because of the cost. City staff members had said they would love to have the...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story
Shaw named Youth of the Year by Boys and Girls Club
Ryquia Shaw has been named the 2008 Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County and will now compete for the state honor against 36 other young people in Raleigh on April 3-4. Ryquia, 14,...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story
Burglar busted for boosting beer, cash
MAR-MAC -- A burglar who awoke a Devonshire Drive couple while stealing beer and cash was arrested Tuesday, authorities said. Thomislav and Diana Senzel told Sheriff's Office detectives a man broke into their home the night of March 6, according...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
Beaufort man leads police on car chase
Police say an intoxicated Beaufort man driving a stolen car under a revoked license refused to stop after being clocked at a high rate of speed on Spence Avenue. Kevin Earl Guthrie, 25, led police on a chase Tuesday morning...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Public record
Arson attempt The Wayne County Sheriff's Office suspects arson in a Monday evening fire at the Woodcroft Drive home of Angie Sollars, according to a report. A flower box under a window was set on fire, causing $2,000 in damages...Published: Mar 26, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Run, shad, run
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Joe Cunningham of Walnut Creek hauls in a shad from the Neuse River at the Sam Casey Bridge on Monday. Spring is here and the shad are running, local fishermen say....Published: Mar 25, 2008 2:02 PM Full Story
Reward increased in Fremont area murder
FREMONT -- The Wayne County Sheriff's Office has leads and a "person of interest" in a Black Creek Road murder, but still needs help piecing the case together. And an anonymous donor hopes an extra $5,000 may help uncover information...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:59 PM Full Story
Mt. Olive woman killed by pickup
MOUNT OLIVE -- A town woman died Monday night after being struck by a pickup truck on County Road, police said. Sharon Carter, who was about 48 years old, was walking on County Road near the intersection of Nellie Avenue,...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Police charge dognapper
A Goldsboro police detective says an East Ash Street man accused of stealing a dog from a veterinary clinic is in custody. Police charged Matthew Lee Johnson, 24, East Ash Street, with possessing stolen goods, larceny of a dog, breaking...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story
Group seeks 'brand' for Goldsboro-Wayne
The city of Goldsboro and the Goldsboro/Wayne County Travel & Tourism organization are working together with North Star Destination Strategies to come up with a "brand" for the area. The brand would be similar to any well-known brand that gives...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
Communities in Schools program gets new leader
Eleven years ago Sudie Davis was part of a task force responsible for introducing Communities in Schools to Wayne County. Serving as board chairman, she stepped in to keep it afloat when the first director hired left. "We were broke...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story
Public record
Fire starter charged A Park Ridge Road woman tried to burn down the house she shared with her boyfriend when he asked her to leave, authorities said Monday. The Wayne County Sheriff's charged Britney Latrice Baker, 19, with felonious burning...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
Roy Clark to perform
Country music singer Roy Clark will soon be crooning on the stage of the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium. On April 19, Clark will take to the stage twice for performances sponsored by Johnston Community College, Triangle Insurance Group and...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
School lunch menus
WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Week of March 31-April 4, 2008 Monday -- Breakfast: strawberry pop tart; Lunch: sausage pizza, baked corn dog nuggets, garden peas, baked apples, mixed fruit, tangerine. Tuesday -- Breakfast: sausage patty w/biscuit; Lunch: tacos w/cheese, salsa...Published: Mar 25, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, March 24, 2008
Getting ready for spring planting
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Quinton Rouse, 2, and his father, Greg Rouse, check on the tobacco plants growing in a greenhouse on his grandfather C.W. Smith’s farm in the Pricetown community. Most farmers begin growing their tobacco plants in greenhouses instead...Published: Mar 24, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story
County's aging residents focus of plan
Faced with a large segment of the population that is rapidly growing older, Wayne County Services on Aging has a new four-year plan to help direct the county's response. Created at the behest of the Eastern Carolina Council on Area...Published: Mar 24, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story
New state law governs how police are to conduct lineups
Police conducting criminal lineups have new rules to follow since the first of this month. It's an attempt to make eyewitness identification more scientific, proponents say. But Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders said the new procedures also mean organizational headaches....Published: Mar 24, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story
Re-paving schedule announced
As they do every year, state Department of Transportation officials have contracted for roads across the state to be re-paved and resurfaced this summer. In Wayne County, $3.3 million is allocated for the effort, covering expenses for sections of U.S....Published: Mar 24, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
EWHS student receives Morehead, Trinity scholarships
Eastern Wayne High senior Noelle Kelly has earned two prestigious college awards, the Morehead-Cain Scholarship and a Duke Trinity Scholarship. The Morehead-Cain Scholarship program is one of the most competitive in the nation. Recipients will attend the University of North...Published: Mar 24, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Sales tax explained
On May 6, voters in Wayne County will have the rare opportunity to decide on their own taxes. On the ballot, along with this spring's primaries, will be a quarter-cent sales tax referendum. That referendum, which the commissioners voted...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
What the sales tax referendum will look like on the ballot
The quarter-cent sales tax referendum on the May 6 primary ballot will appear as follows: COUNTY SALES AND USE TAX Local sales and use tax at the rate of one-quarter percent (0.25%) in addition to all other state and local...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Virginia teen killed in two-car accident in Duplin County
BEAULAVILLE -- A Vir-ginia teenager is dead from a two-car crash after running a stop sign, a crash that also injured a Pink Hill man, the Highway Patrol said. Jenna King, 17, ran a stop sign in her Honda Civic...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Retiring band director to do reunion concert
Janet Barnes has met many people over her three-decade-long career teaching music in Wayne County Public Schools. And as she prepares to end her journey, which has taken her to several schools around the county, she is hoping to see...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Ten young women will compete for 2008 Miss Goldsboro title
From staff reports Ten young women will compete in the annual Miss Goldsboro Scholarship program on Saturday, March 29, starting at 7 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. The pageant will honor Miss Goldsboro 2007, Nicki Sanderson, with a special tribute...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Norwayne Middle School wins county 'Battle of the Books'
From staff reports Norwayne Middle School defended its title in the Wayne County Public Schools' 22nd annual "Battle of the Books" competition recently. This is the third year in a row that the school team won the district competition. The...Published: Mar 23, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 21, 2008
Student work on display
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Heather Odom and her 15-month-old daughter Savannah look at a science display at the Berkeley Mall today that was constructed by students from Norwayne Middle School. Science and math projects by students from across Wayne County are...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Police looking for Avon robber
Goldsboro police are looking for an Avon saleswoman who allegedly used the job to case a customer's home. Allison Ray Crockett, 42, whose last known address was on Mill Creek Court, is wanted on multiple felony-level warrants. Sgt. Chad Calloway...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
County approves long-range plan, goals
After nearly two years of discussion and planning, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners has finally approved the county's long-term comprehensive plan. The plan, which features 12 different focus points, each with its own overarching vision statement, policy recommendations and...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Rec center plans discussed
Members of the committee planning a proposed Community Recreation Center discussed variations of the plan at a meeting Thursday with architects. Committee members met with representatives of Pearch, Brinkley, Cease + Lee to go over the design of the center....Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Water to be cut off in some areas
City water service will be interrupted in several areas next week in order to allow city crews repair water lines. Service will be interrupted on Tuesday, March 25, from 8 a.m. until noon for the residents in the 300 and...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
New business zone proposed
It hasn't been formally discussed by the Wayne County Planning Board yet because of time constraints at its last two meetings, but county Planning Director Connie Price is proposing that a new zone be added to the zoning ordinance for...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Home shot into Kimyette Depress Burt of Welsdon Drive Dudley reported that her home was shot into while at home with her teen-aged son and daughter, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office reported....Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Wayne Museum scavenger hunt
The Wayne County Museum will offer children a spring and summer scavenger hunt Tuesday through Aug. 22. Children follow clues throughout the museum, and when they find the last clue, they get to pick out a prize. Ages 5 and...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Rosewood teacher recognized by business women
MOUNT OLIVE -- Rosewood High School teacher Lindsay Barwick is the 2008 Young Careerist of the Year. She received the honor this month during the Wayne-Duplin Business and Professional Women's meeting. As the new Young Careerist of the Year, Ms....Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Dog park
A dog park in Goldsboro is becoming more than just an idea. The Stoney Creek Park Alliance further discussed the aspects of incorporating a dog park in Stoney Creek Park at their meeting Thursday. Currently, members of the alliance are...Published: Mar 21, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Communications system is in need of tax money, Smith says
Faced with an aging county communications system, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners decided two years ago to begin replacing it. "We literally have been duct taping our communication system together for years. It's 40 years old," Wayne County Manager...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Counterfeit money circulating in Wayne
Goldsboro police say a recent rash of counterfeit bill reports is more than mere coincidence, and suspect someone is peddling fake cash locally. Sgt. Chad Calloway said that people in the field have been taking in reports of someone either...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Downtown wireless Internet proposed
Downtown Goldsboro may soon have another attraction -- wireless Internet service. Businessman David Weil spoke to the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp.'s Board of Directors Wednesday about working with them to provide the service in part of the city. Weil said...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont to charge for excessive 911 calls
FREMONT -- Fremont town aldermen decided Tuesday night to charge for excessive false alarm calls to law enforcement, following Goldsboro's lead. An ordinance adopted unanimously says Fremont fire and police departments "receive an abundance of false fire and security alarm...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Few speak at city hearings
The Goldsboro City Council will return to its historic chambers in the old City Hall at its next meeting. The council met Monday night for the last time in the City Hall Addition. The century-old City Hall has been undergoing...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Eastern Wayne student receives Park Scholarship
Eastern Wayne High School senior Michael McKnight has been awarded a Park Scholarship to attend North Carolina State University. The Park Scholarship, valued at about $59,000 for North Carolina residents and $107,000 for out-of-state students, is among the nation's most...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Man sought in shooting
Goldsboro police are seeking a 25-year-old man for attempted murder, police said. Investigator Dave Cloutier said Icshon Zaquan Jones, who goes by the alias "Trigger," shot into a car with the intention of killing the occupant. The shooting took place...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Break-in arrests Goldsboro police say they caught Michael Bellamy, 17, of Olivia Lane, and three juveniles trying to break into Citi-Trends on North Center Street. Two of the three juveniles were immediately taken into custody, and a third was soon...Published: Mar 20, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
An Airman and an anniversary
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Staff Sgt. Daniel Spencer, right, receives the Bronze Star from Lt. Col Byron Anderson, commander of the 4th Operations Support Squadron, during a ceremony at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. Spencer also earned a Purple Heart during...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Cop shooter sentenced
A 60-year-old Goldsboro man who shot a city police captain in the chest two years ago was sentenced to nearly 46 years in prison in a Raleigh federal court this week. Bobby Lee Rawlings, formerly of East Elm Street, stood...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Hero, squared
Nearly a year ago, Staff Sgt. Daniel Spencer was on a road 40 miles northeast of Baghdad when a bomb shot his armored patrol vehicle 10 feet in the air. Just six months later, the airman took another drive down...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Bond market affects hospital
Wayne Memorial Hospital has been forced to consider alternatives to reduce interest costs on its 2006 bond issue for $35 million. A sharp drop in the auction rate bond market has impacted Wayne Memorial and nine other hospitals, including Pitt...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Schools deliver budget to county
Meeting in the second of four scheduled sessions, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education began preliminary discussions about the school system's 2008-09 budget Tuesday afternoon. "When it says draft, that's exactly what that means," Superintendent Dr....Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Officers get mixed reviews in Fremont
FREMONT -- For the second month in a row, citizens gathered at town hall to complain to their aldermen about what they see as an overzealous police department. But the late-arriving crowd of about seven was smaller and less vocal...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public gets first official look at Goldsboro City Hall renovations
The grand re-opening of Goldsboro's century-old City Hall on Tuesday gave city officials, residents and guests a chance to reminisce about the past and look ahead to the city's future. Mayor Al King said the renovated structure will be a...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Thefts reported *James Hibbard of North George Street reported his brown 1988 Isuzu Trooper was stolen from a parking lot in the 1600 block of North George Street sometime over the weekend, Goldsboro police said. *James Brown Jackson of Perkins...Published: Mar 19, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Miss North Carolina makes reading stop
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Aniya Williams, left, and Marticia Teachey, kindergarten students at North Drive Elementary School get a chance to meet Miss North Carolina, Jessica Jacobs, at their school this morning. Miss Jacobs is traveling the state promoting literacy. While...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
It is okay to water at home, but...
The Goldsboro City Council lifted some water restrictions on city residents Monday night, saying the drought crisis has eased somewhat due to recent rains, but warned residents to continue conserving wherever possible. "Don't forget how to conserve," Mayor Al King...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Moldovian ambassador to speak in Mount Olive College on March 20
The ambassador of the Republic of Modova is scheduled to make a "major announcement" during his visit to Mount Olive College on Thursday, a college official said. Dr. Ken Stokes, dean of the Tillman School of Business at the college,...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools projects now have architect
The Board of Education Monday night approved an architect and construction manager for phase one of its schools capital project, and discussed the preliminary budget that will be submitted to the county commission. The 90-minute called meeting was the precursor...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Senate candidate Patricia Oliver puts education at top of her agenda
Running with an eye toward helping to fix some of the areas that she sees the state failing in, Patricia Oliver is hoping to gain the Democratic nomination for the North Carolina Senate District 12 seat during the May 6...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Seminar to offer employers tips on immigration rules
Local businesses can find out the latest information on immigration rules and politices at a seminar sponsored by the Wayne County Latino Council March 28. The seminar will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Wayne Center....Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
'Booze it' nets crack, counterfeit money Police stopped a 23-year-old Dudley man with 1.5 ounces of crack cocaine and a counterfeit $20 during a "Booze It & Lose It" U.S. 117 South traffic checkpoint late Friday, Goldsboro police said. Police...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Clarification
I.R.S. Special Agent and public information officer Nancy Hatfield said that agents of the Internal Revenue Service were present, not involved in an investigation, during raids of Murphy's Place in Mount Olive. The agent said she did not confirm that...Published: Mar 18, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, March 17, 2008
DAV seeks new headquarters
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Connie Turnage, center, talks with Hoss Peele, right, ande William Moore at a breakfast meeting for the Disabled American Veterans. With more ande more disabled veterans coming out of the war in Iraq, local veterans say the...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Stabbing suspects sought
From staff reports A Duplin County man was reportedly stabbed to death Sunday on Garner's Chapel Road but Duplin County Sheriff's Office officials refused to comment on the incident. A call to the office of Duplin Sheriff Blake Wallace was...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
More are on the way
Bill Graham looks across a table inside the Disabled American Veterans' Post 45 home base off Patrick Street. He listens to his 40-year-old junior vice commander respond to the notion that veterans' groups are dying out. "These young kids fighting...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
County will eye 20-year roadmap
Meeting Tuesday, the Wayne County Board of Commissioners is expected discuss, and possibly give final approval to the Wayne County Comprehensive Plan. The plan, which has been in the works for nearly two years, features 12 vision areas, including...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Legislative wary of fix for mental health care
Local legislators are approaching Gov. Mike Easley's recent proposals to fix the state's mental health system with a healthy dose of skepticism. While acknowledging that something needs to be done to help stabilize a system that has been reeling...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Free county respite care openings
From staff reports The Wayne County Services on Aging has five openings in its free respite care program. The program is not adult day care. It is designed to offer structured activities and supervision for senior citizens who have some...Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Death found to be of natural causes
An investigation into the death of John Rogers, 73, of Rose Landing Place, was determined to be a death by natural causes....Published: Mar 17, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Police car smashed as man tries to elude
An elderly man involved in a car accident took a vehicle by knifepoint and led police on a chase before crashing into an occupied police cruiser, a church's brick column, trees, a clothesline and another car, Goldsboro police said. Police...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Leaders reject plan for drought
With steady rains falling over much of North Carolina so far this year, several local legislators are accusing Gov. Mike Easley of being slow in presenting a proposal to deal with the state's year-long drought and future water needs. Some...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
College says 'no' at first to Dail's speech
Freed and exonerated former Goldsboro resident Dwayne Dail probably won't bring his speaking tour of college campuses to Wayne Community College. Dail and his attorney feel a college representative rebuffed a request by the former county resident and his co-speaker,...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Chamber plans State of the County
Hoping to kick off a series of community education meetings, the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will host the 2008 State of the Community presentation on March 26. Presented by the chamber's Government Affairs Committee, the program will feature a...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:02 AM Full Story
Pate seeks reasonable limits on water, stronger stance against rising crime
As the Mount Olive Republican prepares for a battle for state Senate District 5, Louis Pate called out the state's Democrat governor on water issues Saturday morning. The Wayne County Republican Party held its GOP monvention at the Wayne Center...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Probation turns into second chances
Perry Bunn wasn't used to punching a time clock. And, to be honest, after landing on probation in October, it wasn't something he expected to be doing -- not with his background. But last week, as the 28-year-old reported to...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Volunteers needed to mentor offenders
While Wayne County Day Reporting Center Director Theresa Barratt is hoping to expand their job training and apprenticeship programs, she is also hoping to offer her charges some personal attention as well. She explained that while many of the criminal...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Counselor will focus on military children's needs
Wayne County Public Schools has hired a new counselor to help local military students and their parents adjust to their new hometowns. Jamie Livengood has been hired by the school system as its military counselor. The state legislature has already...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Family Y is looking for young leaders
Ryan Novo, the Goldsboro Family YMCA's new youth director, is looking for Wayne County's next generation of leaders. Novo said he plans to start a branch of the Leaders Club at the YMCA in August. He said Leaders Club is...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Public record
Counterfeit reports up Goldsboro police report a higher-than-usual number of attempts to pass counterfeit money, a crime that tends to run in cycles in police jurisdictions, according to authorities. Police received three reports of people trying to pass counterfeit bills...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Hearings on city's agenda Monday
With nine public hearings to be held, the Goldsboro City Council will have a full docket at its meeting Monday night, which includes two requests for conditional use permits for one existing and one new pub downtown. One hearing will...Published: Mar 16, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, March 14, 2008
Brothers in arms
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Rosewood High School seniors and Little River volunteer firefighters Eric Jones, left, Byron Cavenaugh and Bryan Jones sit inside the athletic office at Rosewood High. For more information see Football and fighting fires help keep these friends...Published: Mar 14, 2008 2:07 PM Full Story
Police Chief resignation roils Pikeville
PIKEVILLE -- The resignation of Pikeville Police Chief Ken Barrett is causing some uproar in town, at least with one former commissioner and citizens circulating a petition for the chief's return. Former Commissioner Johnny Weaver, who chose not to run...Published: Mar 14, 2008 2:05 PM Full Story
Goldsboro disbands resident group
District 1 resident and Mayor's Neighborhood Committee member Frankie Anna Lewis wants to know why Goldsboro officials are not continuing the group organized to bring residents' concerns to the city leadership. Mayor Al King said he originally set up the...Published: Mar 14, 2008 2:02 PM Full Story
Football and fighting fires help keep these friends together
These three "brothers" -- two of them by birth -- do everything together. They fight fires, go to Rosewood High School, play football and work at Builder's Discount Center. Twins Eric and Bryan Jones, 18, and their lifelong friend Byron...Published: Mar 14, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story
Commission hopefuls to get briefing Monday
Faced with 17 candidates -- incumbents and newcomers -- running for the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, first in the May 6 primary and then in the November general election, County Manager Lee Smith is organizing an information session to...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Republican Reeves files for Senate District 12
For Nena Reeves, candidate for the Republican nomination for state Senate District 12, of all the problems facing Raleigh, the one at the root is the need to change the capital's culture and attitude. "We need to restore confidence in...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
Democrat Carroll seeks Senate District 12 seat
Currently in his fourth term as a member of the Johnston County Board of Education, Democrat Kay Carroll is hoping to make the jump to state politics as he runs for his party's nomination for the open Senate District 12...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story
AK-47 fired in Goldsboro
An assault weapon was fired into two residences in Courtyard Circle apartments Thursday afternoon, but police have no witnesses willing to talk, Sgt. Chad Calloway said. No one was injured. One man was arrested on an existing warrant, but police...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:51 PM Full Story
Public record
Break-in arrests Goldsboro police say two city teenagers are responsible for a break-in last month that victimized Kimberly Butler of Olivia Lane, Investigator Dwayne Bevell said. Quinton Jerrod Huggins, 17, Wilmington Avenue and Auston Hobbs, 17, Johnston Lane, are charged...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
Three enter pleas for roles in murder
MOUNT OLIVE -- Three cousins pleaded guilty to plotting the death of Mount Olive's Russell Lee Nickelson this week, all receiving 15- to 18-month sentences in plea deals with prosecutors, court records show. Another man, Robert "Bobby" Leach has already...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Goldsboro looking to fill two positions
The City of Goldsboro is looking for a couple good men or women to run its Human Resources and Community Development departments. With the application period closng today, the Human Resources director will provide guidance and implement policies for city...Published: Mar 14, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Gambling probe continues
News-Argus/Bobby Williams Murphy’s Place on Center Street in Mount Olive was the site of a raid by state and local law enforcement officers, who seized records from the establishment. For more information see Law officers keeping mum about 'numbers...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Law officers keeping mum about 'numbers running' raids
MOUNT OLIVE -- Federal and local officials released little about Tuesday's police raids on an illegal lottery ring reportedly involving a local restaurant and bar. The Duplin County Sheriff's Office played a lead role in the investigation, although four Wayne...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Local leaders ponder future of water use
KINSTON -- After spending all day discussing water issues Monday at North Carolina's Eastern Region's water summit at the Global TransPark in Kinston, the question on the minds of every participant was where to go next. For most, after hearing...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont man faces molestation charges
FREMONT -- A Fremont man is charged with first-degree rape of a child for molesting a 12-year-old, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Detective Sgt. Richard Winders investigated Victor Alfonso Espino-Alferos of Peacock Street in Fremont for a report of...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Man gets 35 years for child pornography
A Wisconsin man who moved to Goldsboro in 2004 was sentenced to 35 years in prison for child pornography this week, the U.S. Attorney's office said. A federal judge sentenced Johnny Ray Lee, 40, for trafficking child pornography over the...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
WAGES can continue medication program
Three months after being told funding had been cut, WAGES was given a reprieve this week to continue its medication management program. WAGES -- Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency -- was notified in December that grant money for the...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
State of the Community March 26
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the Wayne County 2008 State of the Community on March 26 at the Wayne Community College's Moffatt Auditorium. The State of the Community is a new program for the Wayne County Chamber...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Republican convention Saturday
The Wayne County Republican Party will hold precinct meetings and the Wayne County GOP Convention on Saturday at the Wayne Center on the corner of Chestnut and George Street. Registration starts at 8 a.m., precinct meetings start at 8:30 and...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public record
Reward doubled in murder case The Wayne County Sheriff's Office increased the reward for information leading to the person responsible for the murder of Silvia Benitez Morales of Fremont, according to a news release. Mrs. Morales was reportedly killed at...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Battle of Books next week
Student teams from five schools will be compete in the Battle of the Books competition next week, testing their reading and memory skills. March 20 will mark Wayne County Public Schools' 22nd annual event, a quiz bowl-type competition that encourages...Published: Mar 13, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
BREAKING NEWS - Second suspect charged, is still at large
Chapel Hill Police Chief Brian Curran announced this afternoon that they have charged two suspects with first-degree murder in the killing of University of North Carolina student president Eve Carson. One, 21-year-old Demario James Atwater was arrested by Durham...Published: Mar 12, 2008 5:02 PM Full Story
BREAKING NEWS - Authorities charge suspect in UNC slaying
Authorities have charged a suspect in the killing of University of North Carolina student president Eve Carson. According to documents filed at the Orange County Courthouse today, Demario James Atwater has been charged with murder in connection to the...Published: Mar 12, 2008 4:20 PM Full Story
Prince Harry learns why 4th is first
A call comes in from somewhere in the desert. A Joint Tactical Air Controller on the ground in Afghanistan's Helmand province needs air support. He and his comrades are taking fire from a trench line. * Hundreds of miles away,...Published: Mar 12, 2008 2:12 PM Full Story
Sheriff raids illegal lottery in Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE -- Duplin County Sheriff officers and other investigators descended Murphy's Place on Center Street in Mount Olive and the home of the bar's owner Tuesday, searching for evidence of an illegal lottery ring. But the restaurant and bar...Published: Mar 12, 2008 2:09 PM Full Story
Easley outlines water use proposals
If North Carolina is going to avoid future water shortages, leaders need more power to regulate water use in communities and more attention needs to be paid to conservation and to the condition of water systems throughout the state, Gov....Published: Mar 12, 2008 2:05 PM Full Story
Remembering the Ehime Maru
MOUNT OLIVE -- Scott Waddle's career in the Navy went down with the Ehime Maru. The nine who perished aboard that Japanese fishing vessel took a piece of the commander with them. It was Feb. 9, 2001. Until that day,...Published: Mar 12, 2008 2:03 PM Full Story
Group will offer help for new mothers battling depression
Melissa Harrell of the Goldsboro Counseling Center knows what it is like to deal with postpartum depression. A mother of three herself, she, too, has battled with the mixed emotions that go along with the birth of a child for...Published: Mar 12, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story
Public record
Stolen gun turns up Carroll Ingram of King Road, Grantham asked a Goldsboro police officer to check the serial number on a Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun and the weapon came up stolen, police said. Goldsboro police found the gun to...Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:58 PM Full Story
Youth hunter safety tournament March 15
The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission will a district Youth Hunter Safety Tournament March 15 at Camp Tuscarora near Bentonville. The event is one of nine planned across the state, paving the way to the annual state championship in April. Team...Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story
Junior step show March 29
KENANSVILLE -- The Chi Iota Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will hold its 5th Annual Junior Step Show on Saturday, March 29 at 6 p.m. at Kenan Memorial Auditorium in Kenansville. Proceeds from the event will be used...Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:53 PM Full Story
Sleeping Beauty will be the first ballet performance at Paramount
The Goldsboro Ballet will perform the Sleeping Beauty Ballet this weekend in the new Paramount Theatre on Center Stret. The ballet is selling tickets now through Friday at the Community Arts Council on Ash Street from 9-5 pm. Tickets are...Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story
Shelter sponsoring play March 15
KENANSVILLE -- Sarah's Refuge is sponsoring a play on March 15 at 5 p.m. at Kenan Auditorium at 427 Main Street in Kenansville. For more information, call 910-293-3467. Sarah's Refuge is a non-profit shelter for battered and abused women....Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Parks adjust closing times
RALEIGH -- State parks will take advantage of a change in daylight-saving time by extending their operating hours in the spring and fall. Beginning this month, state parks and state recreation areas routinely will close no earlier than 8 p.m....Published: Mar 12, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Union Station update
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Onlookers can now see Union Station’s windows, a part of the building that architect David Gall calls the eyes. Several outbuildings have also been demolished, and the few remaining will be removed soon to provide a more...Published: Mar 11, 2008 2:04 PM Full Story
Eastern N.C. officials talk about ways to prevent future water issues
KINSTON -- There might be a day -- perhaps soon -- in eastern North Carolina when homes are built with special underground stormwater storage tanks, tax incentives are given for purchasing low-flow appliances and fixtures, and fresh, clean drinking water...Published: Mar 11, 2008 2:00 PM Full Story
Depot work advances
With initial preparations completed, the real work on the old Union Station downtown has begun. Architect David E. Gall, who is overseeing the planning for the project, said he is excited about the transformation he expects to see in the...Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:57 PM Full Story
Princeton High School senior dies in crash
A Princeton High School senior died Sunday after missing a stop sign on Brogden Road, just a few miles southeast of Smithfield, the state Highway Patrol reported. Mamie Katlyn Bell, 18, was driving a 2001 Toyota south on Old Sanders...Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story
Aycock Birthplace reopens for tours after fire
FREMONT -- The Charles B. Aycock Birthplace has reopened as clean-up continues after a January fire. Yellow ribbon surrounds the partially burned house in which the state's education governor was born -- the result of a suspected arson earlier in...Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story
Public record
Prescription pad stolen A Selma patient made off with a 50-sheet prescription pad belonging to a doctor at Atlantic Medical Office on Wayne Memorial Drive last week, Goldsboro police said. Smithfield Police arrested Nichole A. Hippensteel, 37, when she tried...Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
School lunch menus
WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Week of March 17-21, 2008 Monday -- Breakfast: blueberry muffin; Lunch: stuffed crust cheese pizza, tuna salad w/crackers, steamed broccoli, corn on the cob, applesauce, tangerine; Tuesday -- Breakfast: chicken biscuit; Lunch: BBQ on bun, baked...Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Clarification
In Monday's News-Argus, a story on the U.S. 70/Beston Road intersection incorrectly said that the mother of a 6-year-old girl that was killed had turned around in the median. She was crossing the intersection when her car was struck....Published: Mar 11, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, March 10, 2008
Controversial intersection
News-Argus/Greg Sousa The intersection of Beston Road and U.S. 70 used to be accident-prone. Now, with directional crossover lanes and signage prohibiting left and U-turns, many residents believe the intersection is a safer one but also more confusing. For...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:59 PM Full Story
Towns form development alliance
Nearly six months after a series of recommendations for creating economic opportunities in northern Wayne County was laid out for them, leaders in Pikeville, Fremont and Eureka have finally selected their task force members and plan to begin work in...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:56 PM Full Story
Students should have new choices of schools
Darrell Allison recalls looking for a 12-foot ladder years ago while living in Charlotte. With a Home Depot on one side of the street and Lowe's on the other, Allison decided to do some comparison shopping. "I found one for...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
Is Beston intersection safer?
Accidents are down at the Beston Road and U.S. 70 interchange, but residents and business owners say they still have mixed feelings about the changes made there. The interchange, which is located a few miles east of Walnut Creek, used...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story
Former Duplin commissioner, Pleasant Grove chief dies
MOUNT OLIVE -- Former Duplin County Commissioner Larry Howard of the White Flash community of Duplin County died Sunday at Wayne Memorial Hospital. His wife of 42 years, Janet, said Howard passed peacefully around midnight Saturday. He went to the...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:49 PM Full Story
Groups offering prom dresses for those who can't afford one
Not being able to afford a dress should not keep a Wayne County high school junior or senior from attending prom, two local groups of volunteers have decided. When the Garris Chapel United Methodist Church put out a call for...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:47 PM Full Story
Johnston County water restrictions
The Johnston County Board of Commissioners voted last week to revise the county's water restrictions to permit county retail water customers to utilize hand-held watering at any time. Also, retail water customers may utilize drip irrigation and soaker hoses for...Published: Mar 10, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Honored guns
They slip out in the middle of the night when few are awake to notice — 20, 30 at a time. They are touring in Iraq, but for nearly twice the typical Air Force deployment time. They quietly appreciate...Published: Mar 9, 2008 4:04 PM Full Story
Woman may have scratched her killer
FREMONT — Silvia Bonitez Morales might have struggled with her killer before she was murdered in her home Monday afternoon, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office investigators said Saturday. And now, Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders is hoping that piece of...Published: Mar 9, 2008 4:03 PM Full Story
Setzer will retire at end of the year
Chief District Court Judge Joe Setzer's “love of the practice of law” is not enough to keep him from retiring to pursue other interests, like sailing through the British Virgin Islands and helping build sets for local theatre group...Published: Mar 9, 2008 4:02 PM Full Story
Pikeville chief says no to weekends
PIKEVILLE — Pikeville police Chief Ken Barrett announced his resignation Friday in a letter citing a disagreement with officials over what hours he would work. The resignation is effective March 31, according to a letter the chief left for...Published: Mar 9, 2008 4:00 PM Full Story
Friday, March 7, 2008
Opening night
News-Argus/Greg Sousa A crowd waits outside the entrance to the Paramount Theatre on Thursday night before the opening of the musical “Oklahoma!” being put on by Stagestruck. It was the first performance in the newly rebuilt theater, which was...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:55 PM Full Story
Eastpointe director says state mental health system 'on right track'
Amidst all of the focus on mental health reforms and Gov. Mike Easley's proposed adjustments Tuesday, Eastpointe Director Ken Jones said that overall, he thinks the new secretary of the state Department of Health and Human Services has the mental...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:54 PM Full Story
Men's conference set for Saturday
Given the opportunity, men will usually step up and try to become better men, says one Goldsboro minister. It's like "iron sharpening iron," said Rev. Bill Wilson, pastor of The Lord's Table on Parkway Drive. "A man will never be...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:52 PM Full Story
Coram files for register of deeds
Deciding on the last day of candidate filing to run in the Democratic primary for the Wayne County Register of Deeds seat in May, Constance Coram explained that she was motivated out of a desire to give back to her...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:50 PM Full Story
County facilities head named
With a 10-year facilities plan in the works and a long-range comprehensive plan about to be adopted, Wayne County Manager Lee Smith is spending the first few months of 2008 rounding out his executive leadership team. Early this week, one...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:48 PM Full Story
N.C. Wesleyan president to resign
North Carolina Wesleyan College President Dr. Ian D. C. Newbould has announced he is stepping down effective June 30 to accept the position of President of Richmond, The American International University in London. Newbould, who served as Wesleyan's president since...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
City of Goldsboro honored by Arbor Day Foundation
For the 10th consecutive year, Goldsboro has been named a Tree City USA Community by the Arbor Day Foundation to honor its commitment to community forestry. The city has met the four standards to become such a community -- having...Published: Mar 7, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Driver Shortage
News-Argus/Mitch Loeber Connie Turnage, left, driver Samuel Williamson and Warren Rook prepare to go to Fayetteville Wednesday morning from the Disabled American Veterans building on Patrick Street in Goldsboro. For more information see Volunteer group tries to find rides...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials eye mental health proposals
After Gov. Mike Easley announced several initiatives Tuesday designed to shake up the mental health reforms begun in 2001, some local officials, including Eastpointe Director Ken Jones, voiced concern about the direction of the proposals -- namely those concerning...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
It might not be his 1st fire at Wal-Mart
Goldsboro police say a teen-ager accused of setting fire to two area Wal-Mart stores was caught during a break-in in progress. Investigators said Fiante Semaj Amerson, 17, East Seymour Drive, was involved in a Jan. 15 fire set at...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Volunteer group tries to find rides for county's heroes in need of care
It is only 6 in the morning, but William Johnson has been awake for a while now. He is wearing a uniform, only not the Air Force camouflage he grew accustomed to donning during his tour in Vietnam. The...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Man, 19, charged for sex with child
A Dudley man who took a 12-year-old girl away from her family for sexual relations is among the 62 bills of indictment returned by a county grand jury this week. Brigido Santos Hernandez, 19, Jake Drive, Dudley, was charged...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Goldsboro fire investigators looking into suspicious fire
Goldsboro police are looking for five or six black men who apparently set fire to a public housing unit on Olivia Lane on Wednesday morning, a detective said. Investigator Dave Cloutier said there is evidence that a fire was...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Bruton only Democrat filing for District 1 run
As the only Democrat filed for the Wayne County Board of Commissioners District 1 seat, Charles Bruton has the luxury of avoiding a May primary, but he nonetheless is beginning to work to get his message out to voters....Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Public Record
Teen charged A juvenile faces charges for breaking into Eastern Wayne High School on Monday night, Goldsboro police said. A window had been broken out of a trailer behind the gym, but the suspect ran and police could not track...Published: Mar 6, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Heavy storms, high winds drop trees across parts of city
Wayne County and Goldsboro received scattered minor damage from a storm front that crossed eastern North Carolina Tuesday night. High winds downed trees in several neighborhoods, scattered debris and left some residents without power. The county received from a half...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect tagged with 12 break-ins
A Goldsboro man who ran from Goldsboro police after they found him at the scene of a crime now faces more charges, police said. Sgt. Chad Calloway said Joseph Renford Roberts, 48, North Virginia Street, broke into nine businesses over...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Agency weighs Easley's proposal
Faced with a mental health system in constant turmoil since he signed the 2001 reform package into law, Gov. Mike Easley seemed to be backtracking from his original role as he laid out a comprehensive plan of action Tuesday for...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Neighbors speak out about four-way stop at intersection
MOUNT OLIVE -- Kimberly Jones remembers the day a stop sign outside her home saved a life. It was at the intersection of College and Martin streets. "Right after the stop sign was put in place, I actually saw a...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
City condemns house, holds off on another
The Goldsboro City Council delivered both good and bad news at its meeting Monday night. A house at 439 East Elm Street will stand another day, but a house located at 400 North John Street will soon be demolished. And...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Teenagers interested in starting new Grange
The rural Grange is making a come-back, say members of Wayne County's Pomona Grange. Years ago, farmers belonged to half a dozen community granges formed to advocate agriculture. They all held memberships in the county-wide Pomona Grange. But today only...Published: Mar 5, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
News-Argus/Bobby Williams This white frame house on Black Creek Road in northeastern Wayne County was the scene of a murder Monday. Law enforcement officers had processed the crime scene by early today and were asking for the public’s help...
Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Eastern Wayne High School student will face charges for bomb threat
A 17-year-old Eastern Wayne High School student accused of calling in a bomb threat to his school faces a felony-level charge, authorities said. Misael Hernandez, New Hope Road, LaGrange, faces one count of making a false bomb report to a...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman found shot in home
FREMONT -- A young Fremont girl came home from school Monday to find her mother dead on the floor of an apparent gunshot wound, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Silvia Bonitez Morales, 28, was found at home with her...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Corps puts new limit on releases from Falls Lake
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cut the amount of water released from Falls Lake again Monday, holding back more water for Raleigh and, in turn, leaving users downstream with less. Reducing the release flow from 51 cubic feet per...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials: Childcare vital for growth
While the Wayne County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education continue to discuss how best to invest in elementary, middle and high school education, Don Magoon, executive director of Partnership for Children of Wayne County, wants to make sure...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Mount OIive Town Board sets sights on 4 dilapidated houses
MOUNT OLIVE -- Town Board members voted Monday to condemn and demolish several neighborhood "eyesores," part of a continued effort, they say, to clean up the town. Code enforcement official Danny Keel recommended the action for four homes he characterized...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Four departments back in City Hall
Four city departments can call historic City Hall home once again. Community Affairs, Community Development, Human Resources and the City Nurse moved into the newly renovated building on Friday. These four departments are the only ones that will have offices...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
'Oklahoma!' at Paramount this week
Stagestruck Children's Theatre will be presenting Rogers and Hammerstein's "Oklahoma!" at the Paramount Theatre on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It will be the first production held in the newly rebuilt Paramount on Center Street. The shows will be held at...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Lunch menus
WAYNE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS Week of March 10-14, 2008 Monday -- Breakfast: apple muffin; Lunch: pepperoni pizza, rib-a-cue on bun w/bbq sauce, pinto beans, shredded lettuce and diced tomato, pineapple tidbits, orange; Tuesday -- Breakfast: ham biscuit; Lunch: baked chick...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Corrections
In Friday's News-Argus, state House District 11 candidate Ronnie Griffin was mis-identified as a Republican. Griffin is a Democrat. And in Sunday's News-Argus, Wayne County Board of Commissioners District 1 candidate Charles Bruton was left off the filing list. Bruton...Published: Mar 4, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Monday, March 3, 2008
Learning to speak the language
News-Argus/Greg Sousa Carlos Cotto, right, director of workforce preparedness at Wayne Community College, talks with Farid Awad, an Arabic language instructor who will be teaching the new Arabic class at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. For more information see...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Statistics offer new look at progress in county
More children are entering foster care for the first time in Wayne County, but none are re-entering the system within a year of leaving and more are staying with their parents, county social services officials recently announced. The statistics were...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
WCC's new course will bring local Arabic training to military personnel
Carlos Cotto wants military personnel to have all the advantages they can when they head overseas. And the director of the workforce preparedness program at Wayne Community College said staying safe might depend, in part, on being able to navigate...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Chris Rogerson running for District 8 Court Judge
With only one of the District 8 District Court judge seats vacant this year, three candidates have decided to throw their hats into the ring -- the latest being Kinston attorney Chris Rogerson. Rogerson, who operates his own private practice...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Eastpoint awarded grant to fund housing project
Working with a $388,400 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Eastpointe, the local mental health agency serving Wayne, Lenoir, Duplin and Sampson counties, is hoping to be able to provide housing for about a dozen families...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Water service interruption
Water service will be interrupted on Tuesday from 8 am until noon for the residents on Granville Drive and Mill Road. This is necessary for the installation of a water valve. In the event of rain the date will be...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Symphony to perform
Elementary school students in the Wayne County School system will hear a concert by the North Carolina Symphony on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at College Hall on the campus of Mount Olive College. The concert is made possible by funds...Published: Mar 3, 2008 1:45 PM Full Story
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Political races set
With filing for the May 6 primaries ending on Friday, Wayne County Board of Elections Director Vickie Reed is already beginning to look toward the next step and the beginning of absentee voting. "I think it went well," she...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:01 AM Full Story
Man pleads guilty to second-degree murder
A Mount Olive man has pleaded guilty to killing a former Goldsboro resident in a plea deal with prosecutors that allowed him avoid two charges in sentencing. Robert "Bobby" Leach, 36, will serve at least 20 years for the...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Red Cross launches 'Heroes' campaign
A tornado tore the roof off of Tammy Forrester's house. Carla Taylor's home burned down, and she lost everything. The American Red Cross helped both women rebuild their lives, and they shared their stories at the 6th annual Heroes Campaign...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
WCC Gala to feature Emmy winning composer
From a baseball standout at Goldsboro High School to an Emmy award-winning composer in Hollywood, Ray Bunch will be the centerpiece for Wayne Community College Foundation's annual gala next month. Several events are planned for the weekend of April...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
United Way marks end of 2007 campaign, sets sights on 2008
From staff reports More than 200 people gathered Thursday at the Goldsboro Country Club to mark the official end to the 2007 United Way of Wayne County Community Campaign. Jimmie Ford, 2007 chairman, thanked the many volunteers who brought the...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Smart Start celebrates 10 years in operation
Smart Start is 10 years old this year. And like any other 10-year-old, has had some growing pains along the way. With nurturing and patience, its potential is still being realized, but the future looks very bright, executive director Don...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
City Council to decide fate of two houses
Goldsboro City Council members will be asked Monday to order the condemnation and demolition of two dilapidated dwellings cited by the city Inspections Department. Chief Building Inspector Ed Cianfarra is expected to tell the council that the properties, located at...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Vendors sought for Seven Springs festival
From staff reports SEVEN SPRINGS -- Vendors and parade entries are being sought for the Eighth Annual Ole Timey Days Festival, which will be held on Saturday, May 10 in downtown Seven Springs. With a population of about 70, the...Published: Mar 2, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story