Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Facilities director sets sights on savings
There is no such thing as a typical day for Sue Farmer, the county's new facilities services director, and her staff -- particularly in light of today's economy. They could be cutting keys one minute and working on a...Published: Dec 31, 2008 3:19 PM Full Story
New year's welcome: Wayne County residents still planning to party until it's 2009
Linda and Sammy Smith of the Coker's Mill community in Wayne County used to take advantage of a local motel's room and breakfast special and go out dancing to celebrate New Year's Eve. But over the years, their tradition for...Published: Dec 31, 2008 3:19 PM Full Story
New agent eager to get her hands dirty in field again
Wayne County's new horticulture extension agent Karen Bussey says she is glad to be moving from the laboratory into the garden. Miss Bussey is replacing Jessica Hyatt, who left the Cooperative Extension Service in August to become a teacher. Miss...Published: Dec 31, 2008 3:19 PM Full Story
Deadline nears for uninsured crop protection
Growers of uninsured crops have until Friday to apply for risk protection coverage through the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program for 2009. NAP, a federally funded insurance program, provides coverage for producers affected by natural disasters. NAP coverage requires...Published: Dec 31, 2008 3:19 PM Full Story
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Pickle drop prep: New Year's Eve in Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE -- People will have the opportunity Wednesday not only to greet the New Year early, but to help those in need as well. The Mt. Olive Pickle Co. is once again teaming up with the Food Bank...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Ideas offered at health care forum
Vicky Darden is still in pain from an accident she had on the job years ago. Fired from the job and on disability now, she has no insurance. The health care system in America is broken and it needs to...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Holiday schedules announced
Goldsboro, Wayne County, Mount Olive, Pikeville, Walnut Creek, Seven Springs, Fremont and Eureka offices will be closed Thursday for New Year's Day and will reopen for business Friday morning. Most Wayne County offices also will be closed Friday because...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
City manager sees slowdown in coming year
City Manager Joe Huffman believes 2008 was a pretty good year for Goldsboro, with many large projects like the historic City Hall renovation and rebuilding of the Paramount Theatre coming to a close. But he admits that 2009 may bring...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro Chrysler Dodge Jeep closes
Goldsboro Chrysler Dodge Jeep has closed its doors. The automobile and truck dealership erected signs Monday saying the company will be "indefinitely closed for business." A company spokesman declined to comment this morning. The Goldsboro Chrysler Dodge Jeep dealership...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery A clerk at Kangaroo on West Grantham Street was reportedly robbed at gunpoint early Monday morning, according to a police report. The 43-year-old clerk said that cash and four gold rings were stolen after a suspect entered...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Four charged in shooting
DUDLEY -- Sheriff's deputies made four arrests Monday after a Sunday shooting at Durham Lake Club House party that injured a woman, police said. Detective Lt. Carl Lancaster said a 15-year-old juvenile shot Laronda S. Leonard in the leg while...Published: Dec 30, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, December 29, 2008
Part 2 of 2: Year in review: Savings prepared Wayne for downturn
Wayne County has been forced to search for ways to cope with a sour economy while working to ensure county projects will be able to continue. The county is better poised to do so because of a sound fiscal...Published: Dec 29, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Economy hurting pets, too
The Wayne County Animal Shelter is having to cope with a surge of homeless pets, with many of the animals the victims of a difficult economy. Owners who would otherwise keep their pets are being forced to give them...Published: Dec 29, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Catching a little summer
With temperatures reaching into the mid-70s Sunday afternoon, the weather was a little more summer than winter. Only days after the Christmas holiday it was hard to tell if it was December or June. And those unseasonably warm temperatures lured...Published: Dec 29, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
How to donate wisely this year
What happens to those dollars stuffed into the bell-ringers' red kettles, or the presents left at toy drive drop boxes? Giving to a charitable cause is an act of trust for donors, who often do not get to see where...Published: Dec 29, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Group racing for Aydan again
Members of last year's "Race for Aydan" are again looking for donations as they prepare to run the 13.1-mile Disney Half Marathon on Jan. 10. Running this year are five participants, including organizers Christopher and Heidi Haan. Ten others...Published: Dec 29, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Father, sons reunited after 38 years
It has the makings of a Lifetime movie ---- mom loses custody of her children, snatches them from day care and vanishes without a trace. For John Schafer of Goldsboro, it has been his life for the last 38 years....Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
High speed chase ends in wreck
Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders had just decided to order deputies to try a dangerous maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect's vehicle when the man lost control of the truck and struck a light pole early Christmas morning. The crash...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
County manager looks ahead to 2009
There is not a lot to be optimistic about in a downward-spiraling economy that is still trying to find the bottom of the barrel. But Wayne County Manager Lee Smith is hopeful that steps taken over the past several years...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
SJAFB's angel tree gave Christmas to 150-plus
More than 150 military children experienced Christmas mornings they might otherwise not have had Thursday, thanks to acts of kindness that spread across Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and outside the gates. 4th Fighter Wing 1st Lt. Lori Bartz...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Returns and after Christmas bargains
Thirteen-year-old Garrett Jackson wasn't too happy with Santa Claus when his new Rock Band 2 video game wouldn't work at his LaGrange home Christmas Day. But this morning, Santa made things right. The whole family piled into the car and...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
HIV a growing concern in Wayne County
With HIV and AIDS a growing concern in Wayne County, grant funding is being targeted to increase education and assistance for those dealing with the disease, Health Director James Roosen told the Board of Health last week. "There are...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Donations sought for Edward and Cleo House Scholarship
Donations are being sought for the Edward and Cleo House Scholarship Fund. Organizers of the scholarship seek donations twice a year, on the anniversarie of their birthdays, Dec. 25 and April 26. Thefund was established in memory of the couple,...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
County to get water and sewer grant money
Wayne, Greene and Lenoir counties have received slightly more than $2.1 million in grants from the N.C. Rural Center Economic Development Center for water and wastewater improvements. Wayne County received the bulk of the grants, $2.065 million, while Greene...Published: Dec 28, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, December 26, 2008
Property taxes late if not paid by Jan. 5
County tax officials have said their office is preparing for the expected last-minute crush as some people still wait until the last minute to pay their taxes and then try to beat the Monday, Jan. 5, at 5 p.m....Published: Dec 26, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story
Locals already thinking about next Christmas
Late Thursday evening, Kristin Mitchell was busy pulling boxes out of her living room closet -- preparing to pack another Christmas away. But her garlands starting falling apart. She noticed cracks in some of her "generic" ornaments. And don't even...Published: Dec 26, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story
YMCA undergoes $200,000 in renovations
Goldsboro Family YMCA members will soon have more options when it comes to exercise. The Y is currently undergoing $200,000 in renovations to turn the former preschool area into several new exercise rooms, including an aerobic studio with hardwood floors...Published: Dec 26, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story
Obama health care meeting Monday night
A meeting will be held at the Wayne County Public Library on Monday from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. for the public to discuss health care concerns that will be forwarded to President-elect Obama's transition team. The meeting will take place...Published: Dec 26, 2008 2:28 PM Full Story
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Getting ready for Santa? Here's what to leave the jolly ole elf
All the presents have been wrapped and the turkey is thawing in preparation for Christmas dinner. But tonight, before the kids are tucked in bed, it's time for the big decision -- what to set out for Santa for...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Charges filed in pawn shop theft cases
Goldsboro authorities, aided by federal officials and private investigators, arrested five people Monday from two local pawn shops on charges of receiving stolen goods, authorities said. Police Sgt. Chad Calloway said both Quality Jewelry and Pawn and Gold City...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Shoppers scurry for presents, bargains
Thousands of Wayne County shoppers checked their lists twice Tuesday to make sure they had everything they needed to go under the tree Christmas morning. Many were out for just a "few small things" or "a little something else" to...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Four die in three crashes in county Tuesday
Tuesday was one of the deadliest days in Wayne County highway history, with four people killed in three separate accidents within a two-hour span. Killed were a woman from Wilson, a 23-year-old Fremont man, a 40-year-old Pikeville woman and...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Stocking fund reaches beyond goal
Well, you did it. Despite an economy that has everyone pinching pennies and all the other good causes to which you could have donated, you chose to help more than 600 Wayne County children have a Christmas they otherwise could...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Memory lights -- a tribute to a not-so-little girl lost much too soon
From the back seat of a slow-moving car, it looks like any other Christmas display -- even if it is a spectacular one. There are thousands of lights, inflatable Santas and snowmen, reindeer and a polar bear -- even a...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Police file charges against Romero in Solorzano murder
Police arrested a suspect in the murder investigation of a Carolina Pines trailer court resident found dead on Saturday night, a detective said. Goldsboro authorities sought Cesar Becorril Romero, 22, of Whispering Lane, Dudley, investigator Dwayne Dean said. Authorities...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Christmas tree choice becomes part of tradition
What's green, red or white, can stand upright or hang from the ceiling and is sometimes called "live" when it's actually dead? The Christmas tree is a staple of the holiday milieu: Christmas revelers rock around them, decorate them and...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Students go Italian at Fremont STARS
FREMONT -- Singers, dancers and actors at the Fremont Stars Elementary School have turned into food critics now. The children in the second and third graders and the exceptional children's class judged Italian desserts during a taste-testing held last week...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro Fire Department responds to house fire Friday; no injuries reported
On Friday, the Goldsboro Fire Department responded to a house fire at about 6 p.m. The fire was at 122 Woods Mill Road in the Hunters Creek subdivision. Captain Patterson, Shift Commander for C Shift, said that when units...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Hark, what's that you hear? Not another Christmas song
Imagine you are sitting in a world where you hear the same Christmas song over and over again -- and you can't escape. For some in Wayne County, that is their world. Every clothing store, grocery store, home improvement store...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Breakfast a Christmas Eve tradition
MOUNT OLIVE -- Little did the six members of the Mount Olive Masonic Lodge 208 who gathered for breakfast 24 years ago realize that from those humble beginning would spring what has become a Christmas Eve tradition. It didn't...Published: Dec 24, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Police seek man in woman's murder
Goldsboro police are looking for a man in the murder of a 23-year-old resident of the Carolina Pines trailer court, according to a release. Police said they had obtained a warrant for Cesar Becorril Romero, 23, of Whispering Lane, Dudley....Published: Dec 23, 2008 6:22 PM Full Story
Retiring prosecutor advocated for victims
Jan Kroboth's prosecution unit had a nickname for a while -- "the old lady advocate team." The nickname came about because Mrs. Kroboth, an assistant district attorney who announced her retirement this month, was often assigned cases with elderly victims,...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Thousands raised for new veterans memorial
KENANSVILLE -- Nineteen sons of Duplin County were lost in Vietnam. But thanks to county Historical Society President Charles Ingram and a generous community, their names will never be forgotten. Just more than a month after 300 friends, neighbors and...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Santa's elves
Jessica Jordan, a gift wrapper for the Goldsboro Mayor's Youth Council, puts the finishing touches on a present at Berkeley Mall on Monday. Shoppers crowded the mall this week, trying to find that final Christmas gift. Many stores were offering...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Arrests made in pawn shop raids
Five people have been charged with possessing stolen goods after federal raids at two locally-owned pawn shops, police said. Mark Throm, Elizabeth O'Banion, Eric Ludwig, William Reavis and Kelletrina Willis all face charges related to receiving stolen goods and/or pawnbroker...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Automobile industry concerns might affect some county manufacturers
Washington, D.C., Detroit and the economic maelstrom swirling around the Big 3 automakers is more than a political football for the approximately 1,428 Wayne County jobs tied to the automotive industry. The local investment of those companies is "significant,"...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Shot in leg Rakeem Howell of Devereaux Street was riding his moped in the parking lot of a South Slocumb Street grocery store when someone fired a single shot at him, striking him in the right knee, Goldsboro police said....Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Cold Stone Creamery closes its doors
Residents may have eaten their last scoop of Cold Stone Creamery ice cream -- at least while sitting in Goldsboro. The eatery's location in Berkeley Commons has closed for an undetermined amount of time. A sign on the door says...Published: Dec 23, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, December 22, 2008
Mall wish trees help provide presents for hundreds
More than 650 children and senior citizens in Wayne County will have a much merrier Christmas this year because of holiday shoppers with big hearts. In early November, Berkeley Mall set out three wish trees in the main entrance...Published: Dec 22, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Air Force, officials test local response
A hostage situation in downtown Goldsboro turned deadly Dec. 12 when the man who perpetrated it detonated a bomb inside the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base gates. And while it was only a test, base officials said they were very...Published: Dec 22, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Gingerbread architects
Alexandra Draughon, 11, puts the finishing touches on a graham cracker gingerbread house during the Gingerbread Wonderland Breakfast for children at the Arts Council of Wayne County in Goldsboro Saturday....Published: Dec 22, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
School Street success story: putting reading first
For 90 minutes each morning at School Street Elementary School, it's reading time. And school officials say the extra emphasis on their ABCs is paying off both in student interest and test scores. The designated time for students in kindergarten...Published: Dec 22, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman's death ruled homicide
Police have reclassified a woman's death as a homicide after finding the 23-year-old victim at her Goldsboro home on Saturday night, police said. Nidia Yubitza Carrera Solorzano was found in her apartment at 1904 N. William St., police Sgt....Published: Dec 22, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Kerr selected for Wall of Firsts
Retiring state Sen. John Kerr says he didn't know what to make of the Rev. William J. Barber the first time he met him. "I thought to myself, 'Either this is the smartest man I've ever met, or he's a...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Fraternal Order of Police take children Christmas shopping
Jasmine McLamb, 6, had to count the days in her head. She looked at a cart full of toys and clothes, including a mechanized dog. "Is it the 20th?" she said, waiting for confirmation near a Spence Avenue Wal-Mart checkout...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
After the storm: Tornado victim trying to pick up the pieces
A cold, driving rain brought consciousness back to Argiro Gomez Nov. 15. It was well after midnight when he opened his eyes to the scene left by the tornado that touched down on his Kenly home. "I was lying down...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
City's revenue shortfall forcing tax talk
City officials say residents will likely pay more in taxes in mid-2009 -- especially with a projected $1.8 million revenue shortfall. And that deficit is linked -- in part -- to reduced citizen usage of some city services, and more...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Firefighters take children on shopping trip
Mar-Mac Volunteer Fire Depart-ment's honor guard spends most of its time protecting the community from fires and other emergencies, but come Christmas, its members play Santa Claus. Chief Bill Harrell read about the "Shop With an Officer" program for...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Suspect sought in bank robbery
News-Argus Staff Writers Goldsboro police need help identifying a man they say is a suspect in a Friday morning bank robbery. Police are still looking for a light-skinned, black male -- about 5 foot, 6 inches to 5 foot 11...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive trades forest access for NCSU advice
MOUNT OLIVE -- Along with serving as a way to dispose of treated wastewater, the town's new tree farm also will be part of a research program through North Carolina State University. The research isn't a revenue producer for...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Goldsboro Milling employees help families at Christmas
At the Goldsboro Milling Co. office, the spirit of giving burst into bloom as a host of angels sprouted on one special evergreen in the company's main office. The company has donated Christmas presents to needy children since Hurricane...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Gateway orders bus; advisory board next
The Goldsboro/Wayne Transportation Authority (GATEWAY) Tuesday agreed to enter into a contract with the state to obtain about $26,000 to help pay for the $325,000 bus the system has ordered. Federal funds will pay the lion's share, about $270,000,...Published: Dec 21, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, December 19, 2008
Wayne gets $2 million for water, projects
Wayne, Greene and Lenoir counties have received slightly more than $2.1 million in grants from the N.C. Rural Center Economic Development Center for water and wastewater improvements. Wayne County received the bulk of the grants, $2.065 million, while Greene...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
City workers tapped for help with next steps for park plan
After Goldsboro City Council members decided to forgo applying for a grant for Stoney Creek Park, they promised they would not abandon the project and that city employees would help the Stoney Creek Park Alliance as much as possible. So,...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Christmas with an international flair
Christmas Around the World was the theme this morning in Kathy Harris' kindergarten class at Northwest Elementary School. Students pulled the strings on a pinata to learn how children in Mexico celebrate Las Posadas, a nine-day celebration with origins in...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials: HIV on rise in Wayne; programs planned
With HIV and AIDS a growing concern in Wayne County, grant funding is being targeted to increase education and assistance for those dealing with the disease, Health Director James Roosen told the Board of Health Wednesday. "There are over 300...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin commissioners eye problems with keeping employees, recruiting
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County government is losing workers to higher-paying counties, department managers told county commissioners this week, and the county needs to do something about the problem. Social Services Director Millie Brown said she holds her breath when she...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Mall shoplifters caught Thursday
Two people who were on a shoplifting spree in Goldsboro were apprehended Thursday afternoon, after fleeing and eluding arrest. Charles Anthony Cole, 48 of Four Oaks, and Alicia LaDonna Phelps, 34 of Selma, were arrested at the Chevron gas...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tickets available for Rebuilding Broken Places' annual event
The board of directors of Rebuilding Broken Places Community Development Corp. will hold its fifth annual Imani Celebration and Wall of First Induction Breakfast. The event will be held Saturday at 9 a.m. at Greenleaf Vision of Faith Community...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Counterfeit shoe stand Goldsboro police allege a Leslie Street man was selling boots and sneakers in a parking lot in the 600 block of South Slocumb Street on Wednesday afternoon. Upon investigation, an officer noticed that the items may have...Published: Dec 19, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Senior Center Christmas
Members of the Wayne County Senior Center at 100 S. John St. celebrated the Christmas holiday together Wednesday. The center will be closed Monday through Friday....Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Recyling waste from refuse into revenue
Wayne County Commissioners on Tuesday made public their intent to proceed with plans to contract with a company that wants to purchase methane gas created by the decomposition of garbage at the county landfill at Dudley. The company would...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
County looks at drug cards to help area residents
Wayne County residents soon could be saving up to 20 percent on their prescription drugs should county commissioners agree to participate in the Prescription Drug Discount Card program sponsored by the National Association of Counties. Locally, Pitt and Wilson...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
State names interim director at Cherry Hospital
Carl Fitch, a Compass Group consultant on site at Cherry Hospital since October, has been named interim director of the hospital effective Jan. 1, Department of Health and Human Services officials announced Wednesday. Dr. Jack St. Clair, Cherry director since...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Police question person of interest in Mount Olive murder
MOUNT OLIVE -- A Duplin County man already in custody on immigration violations has been named a person of interest in a Friday morning murder in Mount Olive. Luis Hernandez, 38, of 242 Summerlins Crossroads Road, Kenansville, is being...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Man struck and killed by pickup
A Goldsboro man was hit by a pickup truck and killed Tuesday night after his car broke down on U.S. 13 near Sandhill Drive, the Highway Patrol reported. Eugene Earl Turner, 48, Brock Road, had parked his vehicle at...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro enters into deal to accept station grants
Stabilization work at Union Station is expected to get final approval by the state Department of Transportation this week and the next, highly anticipated step, will be the full restoration of its exterior, a project estimated to cost at least...Published: Dec 18, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
City raises flag over first phase of Union Station rehab project
The renovation of Union Station paused Tuesday as workers and city residents gathered to celebrate the completion of the first phase of work that is expected to bring the old railroad center back to life. "This is history," said one...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Local Forty & Eight club focuses on helping nursing students through school
In the days before Humvees and C-130s, soldiers going to the front lines had to make do with whatever makeshift transport the officers could find. For American troops in France during World War I, that transport was often a...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Lenoir County Sheriff asks for help finding sex offender
The Lenoir County Sheriff's Office is asking for help locating a registered sex offender. Derek Terrell Cantey moved and has not notified the Sheriff's Office of his new residence. His last known address was on Dr. Martin Luther King...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
County to schools: Tap lottery funds now
Wayne County's $22 million school facilities plan could be in jeopardy if the state decides to raid lottery and ADM (average daily membership) funding to help offset a ballooning state budget shortfall. That, county commissioners said Tuesday, is why...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
MOC students to attend inauguration seminars, write memos to president
MOUNT OLIVE -- Six Mount Olive College students have been chosen to attend Campaign 2008: The Presidential Inaug-uration Seminars in Washing-ton, D.C. next month. Departments and schools at the college had nominated juniors and seniors who demonstrated academic excellence....Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Best pleads to 2007 murder
Kathy Holt Alfaro, the sister of murder victim Patricia Herring, knew her sister had a habit of disappearing from time to time. Patricia had battled with drugs, Mrs. Alfaro said, and the pain of their mother Dolly's death spurred...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect sought in night shooting at local home
A Wayne County man was shot Tuesday night in what appears to have been a home invasion, Wayne County Sheriff's Capt. Tom Effler said Wednesday morning. Effler said that Luis Muniz, 41, of 1113 Lanetown Road, was shot about...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
4th Fighter Wing builds shelters to protect its Strike Eagle fleet
Less than a month after Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz suggested the F-15E would be a viable airframe for another decade or more, crews at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base are working to protect the 4th Fighter...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Cliffs to hold tree-lighting ceremony
The Cliffs of the Neuse State Park near Seven Springs will hold a tree lighting ceremony Thursday with hot chocolate and roasted peanuts for all who attend. The public is invited to come join the fun, the event will be...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin board fails to address deputy shortage
KENANSVILLE -- Despite indications that they would again address the growing personnel shortage in the Duplin County Sheriff's Office, little was said Monday about the situation by the county commissioners. In November, Sheriff Blake Wallace told the commissioners that...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
GPD raids 2 pawn shops in city Tuesday
Federal agents and the Goldsboro Police Department raided two city pawn shops Tuesday and seized items as they investigate whether the shops have knowingly sold stolen goods. No charges have been filed, but police Chief Tim Bell said he...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Father and son teaming up to build new church near Pikeville
Bill Showman believes in small beginnings. He moved here with the military in 1980, where he met wife Paula, and the two have remained since his retirement. He found his calling in the area of pastoral administration, starting churches...Published: Dec 17, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Gift of a Christmas: Salvation Army helps families
A few months ago, Julia was preparing her children for a Christmas morning without a tree -- without presents, candy canes or a turkey dinner. "I told them that sometimes, Santa gets behind," the single mother of two said. "I...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Price to hold book signing at Downtown Deli
Former News-Argus editor Gene Price will sign copies of his book "Folks Around Here," on Wednesday at the Downtown Deli from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., on Thursday at the Wayne County Museum from noon until 2 p.m. and at...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Eureka man ID'd as Mount Olive shooting victim
MOUNT OLIVE -- A Eureka man who apparently was shot while trying to get out of a vehicle has been identified as the victim of the Friday morning murder. Police found Santos Anton Lopez, 42, of 104 Dotsie Lane...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Kinston gets 123 jobs as plant expands
Dopaco Inc. announced Monday its plans to expand its Kinston facility, creating 123 new jobs and $25.3 million in investments over the next three years. It was an announcement, Gov. Mike Easley said in a written statement, that was...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Lane twins take part in reality game show
Law enforcement officials aren't on their trail. There is no angry mob. But for an hour this evening, a pair of Wayne County natives will be hunted. Gary and Larry Lane will appear on the SciFi channel's newest reality game...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin Commission pays waste department for work
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin commissioners agreed earlier this month to pay Solid Waste Director Bee Barnette $18,000 for doing work at the Duplin Commons Event Center. Commissioners voted in November to stop Barnette from doing any work for other departments...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Talk about converting events center to jail halted
BEAULAVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners have put off talking about the idea of converting the county's events center into a jail, at least for now When commissioners met at the Beulaville fire station Monday night, they were...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
175 pounds of marijuana seized near Dudley home
DUDLEY -- Authorities seized about 175 pounds of marijuana after setting up a surveillance operation at a Trailwood Drive home Friday. The home's owner has not been charged, but a Goldsboro man has -- Decarlo Andre Russell, 35, of...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
City alleges excessive drug prices
The city of Goldsboro has filed an action in federal court in Massachusetts on behalf of itself and other state government entities against two pharmaceutical companies. City officials say the companies conspired to manipulate pharmaceutical drug prices since 2001, if...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
More Cherry investigations under way
Cherry Hospital's woes continue as two incidents of violence have been reported and at least four nurses are being investigated by the N.C. Board of Nursing. According to documents released Monday from the Department of Health and Human Services, a...Published: Dec 16, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, December 15, 2008
Legislators: Cut first; taxes last resort
Despite being faced with a 2009-10 budget shortfall that some are projecting to be more than $3.3 billion, local state legislators say they are unlikely to entertain the idea of expanding the state's revenue base to help balance the...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Getting ready for duty: Local service members have a chance to gather before deployments begin
A young man sitting on a truck bed was among those gathered Sunday at the Dillard/Goldsboro Alumni center. He smiled as he grabbed his girlfriend's hand -- but his expression turned more serious when he pulled her in for one...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Local organizations can use volunteers for holidays, too
Many people in Wayne Country are struggling to afford their own basic necessities, much less pay for an extravagant Christmas, and big hearts are clashing with thin wallets when charities knock on the door. For people seeking to help others...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Council to weigh park plan tonight
The Goldsboro City Council will likely approve the site plan for Stoney Creek Park at its meeting tonight. The plan was brought to the council at a special meeting last week, but the council couldn't approve it since the...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Man shot, injured Sunday evening
A "substantial amount" of drugs and some weapons were found after Goldsboro police arrived at a Dallas Road home where a man had been shot multiple times, Wayne County Sheriff's Office officials said today. James Hubert Leonard, 159 Dallas...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro police will be part of 2009 governor's calendar
Perhaps the last time you saw one of these men in blue was when he issued you a traffic ticket. For a less stressful view of Goldsboro's police officers, however, turn to the March page of the 2009 N.C. Governor's...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Dealers say Detroit woes taking their toll here, too
For 28 years Dan Wise, owner of Dan Wise Chevrolet at LaGrange, has watched the ebb and flow of the car market. But never has he seen business plummet so far so fast. Wise has not been forced to...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Speaker set for annual forum Jan. 15
This year's Annual Speakers Forum -- the seventh of its kind -- will be Jan. 15 at noon at the Paramount Theatre and will feature guest speaker William H. Hudnut III of the Urban Land Institute. The forum is...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Ranking: Spring Creek one of nation's best
Spring Creek High School has received the "Bronze" medal designation as one of U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best High Schools." The publication, in collaboration with School Evaluation Services, a K-12 education, data research and analysis business, used...Published: Dec 15, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Mount Olive police investigating second murder
MOUNT OLIVE -- Police were called to a busy North Breazeale Avenue shopping area Friday morning after a Latino male was shot and left beside the road. It was the town's second fatal shooting in three days. Chief of...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Joy in a child's eyes
"Are you going to be Santa Claus?" 6-year-old Jamaica asked one of the bearded volunteers Saturday at the 2008 Empty Stocking Fund party. When she was reassured that the real Santa was inside waiting to see her, she decided to...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Kelly: 4th to deploy more in new year
Two weeks ago, Col. Mark Kelly was saying goodbye to 32 members of the 4th Fighter Wing Security Forces detail. "There wasn't a big parade," he said. "There weren't ice sculptures or flower girls." They were headed to war --...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
St. Clair leaving Cherry Hospital
Dr. Jack St. Clair, director of Cherry Hospital, will end his tenure at the state-run psychiatric facility Dec. 31. Announced Friday by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, St. Clair's departure is the latest development since the...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Monument to Whitehall battle is dedicated in Seven Springs
SEVEN SPRINGS -- A granite monument honoring the Confederate soldiers killed at the Battle of Whitehall in 1862 was dedicated Saturday on a piece of land less than a mile from the site of the original Civil War clash. Members...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Waynesborough trails dedicated in Kemp's honor
About 60 of the late Bill Kemp's friends and family members attended a ceremony Saturday to dedicate the hiking and nature trails he championed at the Waynesborough Village in his honor. The Old Waynesborough Commission held the ceremony during the...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Facilities plan gets review Tuesday
County Manager Lee Smith will update commissioners on the economy and on the Wayne County school system's $22 million facilities plan Tuesday. Commissioners also will be asked to approve a water agreement with the Eastern Wayne Sanitary District to provide...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Stars urge students: Stay away from drugs
Two renowned rap artists visited Goldsboro High School on Saturday to help convince young people that violence and drugs can destroy them. Cheryl "Salt" James Wray of the duo Salt-N-Pepa, and Christopher "Play" Martin of Kid-N-Play, spoke to a...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Former Wayne commissioners honored for transportation work
Former Wayne County commissioners Atlas Price Jr. of Seven Springs and Efton Sager of Goldsboro were honored recently during the 2008 Eastern Carolina Council awards banquet in New Bern. Price received the Transportation Leadership Award and Sager was recognized...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Mt. Olive Pickle will drop pickle to welcome 2009
MOUNT OLIVE -- Want to ring in the New Year, but don't relish the idea of hanging out until midnight? If so, Mt. Olive Pickle Co. might have a solution. The company will hold its 10th annual New Year's...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Donations still sought for coat drive
Operation Transition, the non-profit group that provides assistance to women who are victims of domestic violence, homeless or making the transition from prison back into society, is still looking for winter apparel for its first coat drive in Wayne...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
290 MOC students turn tassels at commencement ceremony
MOUNT OLIVE -- "That's my mommy," shouted one excited young spectator Saturday afternoon as graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas during Mount Olive College's 55th commencement exercises. The family ties weren't just in the audience. They...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Gateway sets holiday schedule
The Goldsboro/Wayne Transportation Authority will close at 2 p.m. Dec. 24, with van service ending at 1 p.m. The office staff will not be available to process reservations between Dec. 24 and 26. On Dec. 24, the bus service will...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Food Initiative receives grants totaling $24,000
The Wayne Food Initiative has received two grants in the past month totaling $24,000. Wayne Food Initiative is a new group formed about a year ago to build a local sustainable food system. Sustainable development has been described as an...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Local fire departments receive grants from state
A number of Wayne County volunteer fire departments have received grants to help buy new equipment from the state Department of Insurance. The grants were announced recently by state Insurance Commissioner Jim Long. The Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Volunteer Fire Department received...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Filmmaker recognized
A Goldsboro native has won an Award of Merit from the Indie Film Fest. Kara B. Still of Wilmington was honored for her film "Altared." She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned...Published: Dec 14, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, December 12, 2008
Cause of death revealed in Dakota Street fire
An autopsy from the N.C. Medical Examiner's office in Chapel Hill shows two Goldsboro house fire victims died of smoke inhalation, Goldsboro police Sgt. Chad Calloway said via news release. Joseph and Hilda Allen apparently died of smoke inhalation and...Published: Dec 12, 2008 4:58 PM Full Story
Cherry Hospital director to step down
Dr. Jack St. Clair, director of Cherry Hospital, will step down from his post, effective Dec. 31, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. In a news release issued Friday afternoon, DHHS Secretary Dempsey Benton said...Published: Dec 12, 2008 2:23 PM Full Story
Wayne schools earn 'quality' accreditation
Wayne County Public Schools have been accredited as a "Quality School System" through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI) and AdvancED. A review team of current educators in districts across...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tax-listing schedule to be considered
The Wayne County Board of Commissioners will be asked to approve a local property tax listing period to run from Friday, Jan. 2, through Saturday, Jan. 31. The schedule will be considered at the commissioners' meeting Tuesday morning. Any...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Parkstown celebrates Christmas
Hundreds of people lined the roadway in the Parkstown community on Thursday for the annual Parkstown Christmas Parade. Once known as the "Biggest Little Parade in the World," the event faded from the scene for decades but underwent a...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Empty Stocking Fund party Saturday
Although donations have lagged, organizers say the Empty Stocking Fund party will go on Saturday -- just as it has for the past 96 years. The Christmas party for needy children sponsored by the Goldsboro Woman's Club, the Continental Society...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Price to sign copies of 'Folks Around Here'
Signings for copies of Gene Price's book, "Folks Around Here," will be held at the Lantern Inn Saturday morning, at the Wayne County Library from 2 until 4 p.m. Sunday, at the Downtown Deli from 11 until 1 p.m....Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Man robbed at ATM Samuel Perkins of La Grange reported Wednesday that he was robbed by two black males while walking out of Sears on North Berkeley Boulevard. The two men drove up and asked him a question, Perkins...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Confederate monument at Whitehall Memorial Park to be dedicated Saturday
SEVEN SPRINGS -- A ceremony to dedicate a monument to the 13 Confederate soldiers killed at the Civil War Battle of Whitehall will be held Saturday at Whitehall Confederate Memorial Park on Budd Fields Road near Seven Springs. The battle...Published: Dec 12, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Shooting suspect apprehended
Goldsboro police say Aijalon D. Dove, 17, is responsible for a non-fatal shooting at the corner of Slocumb and Elm Streets on Nov. 13 just before midnight. Dove, of Courtyard Circle, was arrested in the Courtyard Circle apartment complex, where...Published: Dec 11, 2008 3:05 PM Full Story
Wayne Country Day students give up activity funds for cause
Seventh- and eighth-graders at Wayne Country Day School had a chance to keep their money for fun projects and class trips. That was the reason they had a pie sale in the first place. But when they heard that there...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Waynesborough trails to be dedicated to Kemp in Saturday ceremony
The Old Waynesborough Commission will dedicate several miles of hiking and nature trails to the late William P. Kemp during its annual Christmas in the Village event Saturday. The holiday celebration will be 1 to 5 p.m. at the reconstructed...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Southern Wayne teacher under investigation
DUDLEY -- A Southern Wayne High School teacher is under investigation for "improper conduct" with a student, but investigators with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office would not say whether the misconduct was of a sexual nature. Wayne County Schools...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
GPS theft Goldsboro Police Sgt. Chad Calloway said that Global Position Satellite systems, which often feature a touchscreen, are becoming a common target for vehicle break-in thefts. Another was reported Tuesday night on North Spence Avenue by Christoph Becraft, 23,...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
New lampposts to bring more light to downtown Mount Olive
MOUNT OLIVE -- The downtown revitalization project that contributed to the town's hodgepodge style of street lights also will be responsible for making the fixtures more uniform. As part of the project, new street lights were installed on the...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College students establish non-profit organization
MOUNT OLIVE -- A group of students at Mount Olive College has put their classroom knowledge to work, in the form of creating a nonprofit organization to assist local children and organizations that serve the needs of children. The...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Norwayne briefly locks down
Norwayne Middle School went into a brief lockdown Wednesday morning, but no students were involved and no charges filed, officials said. Ken Derksen, public information officer for Wayne County Public Schools, confirmed that it happened before school started and...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials say despite new law, street racing isn't a problem here
There are few recent reports, if any, of illegal street racing within the city of Goldsboro or the townships of Wayne County, according to investigative and patrol authorities and a review by the News-Argus of nearly every submitted police...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin student takes gun to school
WARSAW -- A 16-year-old James Kenan High student was charged and expelled Tuesday after being caught with a weapon at school. Duplin Sheriff's Captain Tim Jones said the teen was charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds...Published: Dec 11, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Sweet treat by the seashore
Seven-year-old Lauren Lovic, left, and Averi King, 10, look at a gingerbread lighthouse that won first place in the Arts Council of Wayne County's gingerbread baking competition Monday evening. The contest was the second annual one held by the Arts...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Stoney Creek Park Alliance looking for private funds after council reject
The Goldsboro Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee approved a plan for Stoney Creek Park Tuesday -- a day after the City Council decided it would not seek grant money to help with the project. A public forum was held on...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Youth Summit planned for this Saturday in Goldsboro High School
Smart Choices for Youth and Wayne County Public Schools will team up this weekend to host the second annual "Youth Violence Awareness Summit," targeting gang and drug prevention. Saturday's event will be 9 a.m. until noon in Goldsboro High School...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect in Iowa murders caught in Pikeville
PIKEVILLE -- Police in Iowa are still investigating the motivation of Iowa State University student and former Pikeville resident Atiba Spellman, 33, who is wanted in connection with the murder of a former live-in girlfriend and a man she...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
LaGrange considering contract with Lenoir County sheriff
LAGRANGE -- Police officers met at the town's Railroad Street station Tuesday night, presumably to discuss the town's initial move to disband the Police Department and contract services with the Lenoir County Sheriff's Office. Town Manager John Craft said...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Man dies in shooting Tuesday in Mount Olive
A shooting at 126 Lee's Country Club Road in Mount Olive on Tuesday night left a Goldsboro man dead from gunshot wounds, and a suspect already in jail, the town's police chief said. Mount Olive police Chief Ralph Schroeder...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Task Force sets sights on safer holiday on roads
With the approaching festive holiday season, also renowned for increases in drinking and driving, one group hopes to become more proactive in preventive measures. The Substance Abuse Task Force, an arm of Wayne Action Teams for Community Health, or WATCH,...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Angels will fly in 2009
It's official -- the Navy's premier flight demonstration team is coming back to Wayne County. The 4th Fighter Wing confirmed Tuesday that the Blue Angels have been named a headliner for the 2009 Wings Over Wayne air show. The two-day...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Polar Express train ride will roll this weekend in Herman Park
The magic of the Polar Express is coming to Herman Park Dec. 12-14, courtesy of the Goldsboro Kiwanis Club and the Goldsboro High School Key Club. Kids from 1 to 92 are invited to take a trip to Santa's workshop...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Man reports assault, robbery John Gray of Indian Springs Road, Mount Olive, reported that three black males blocked the intersection of Stanley Chapel Church and Emmaus Church roads, hit him and robbed him on Monday, according to a Wayne...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Co-owner of troubled Kinston nightclub arrested
KINSTON -- A co-owner of a Kinston nightclub allegedly sold marijuana to undercover agents, and was arrested this weekend after being found at the home of a friend, authorities there say. Investigations Capt. Jim Oldenburg said the office had...Published: Dec 10, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Suspect in Iowa double homicide caught in Pikeville
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office says they caught a suspect in an Iowa double murder in the Pikeville area on Monday afternoon, authorities say. Atiba Spellman, 33, a former Pikeville resident, is accused of murdering a former girlfriend and a...Published: Dec 9, 2008 3:55 PM Full Story
Club owner arrested on marijuana charges in Lenoir County
A Lenoir County club owner was arrested for selling marijuana to undercover agents, according to Lenoir County Sheriff's Office Capt. Jim Oldenburg. Dana Jo Pusateri, 31, of Spiritual Drive, Kinston, allegedly sold six quarter-ounce bags of marijuana on two occasions...Published: Dec 9, 2008 3:55 PM Full Story
Club owner arrested on marijuana charges in Lenoir County
A Lenoir County club owner was arrested for selling marijuana to undercover agents, according to Lenoir County Sheriff's Office Capt. Jim Oldenburg. Dana Jo Pusateri, 31, of Spiritual Drive, Kinston, allegedly sold six quarter-ounce bags of marijuana on two occasions...Published: Dec 9, 2008 3:54 PM Full Story
Blue Angels, Golden Knights to perform at 2009 Wings Over Wayne air show
It's official -- the Navy's premier demonstration team is coming back to Wayne County. The 4th Fighter Wing confirmed Tuesday that the Blue Angels have been named a headliner for the 2009 Wings Over Wayne air show. The two-day event,...Published: Dec 9, 2008 2:26 PM Full Story
Kitchen Table Conversations -- Take 2
Towanda Hagans is proud to be a volunteer in her children's schools. She is on the Parent Advisory Council at Carver Elementary School, where her son is a student, and volunteers in the office at her daughter's school, Mount Olive...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro will get one of 31 new veterans clinics
For many local veterans, medical care comes with long drives to Veterans Affairs hospitals in Durham and Fayetteville. But thanks to a plan announced by Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James Peake Friday, there will soon be a much closer...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
New Rec Center will force tax hike
Goldsboro's proposed Community Recreation Center could come with a price tag for taxpayers -- a possible tax increase of between 5 and 12 cents in July -- and a new park plan might have to be funded by private donations,...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Governor-elect meets with business leaders
GREENVILLE -- Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue's "listen and learn" series of roundtable meetings with business, education and community leaders to gather suggestions on how to address the state's pressing issues made a stop Monday morning in Greenville, where she received...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Business robbed A shop worker reported he was robbed at gunpoint by two black males at Glenn Country Store on Fox Drive on Friday, authorities said. The subjects concealed their faces with white T-shirts, and both wore dark blue...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Ecstasy arrest in Dudley
A Dudley man was arrested after being found with 55 "Ecstasy" or MDMA pills, according to a Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad news release. Jaikelvin Maye, 20, of Timber Hollow Drive, was charged with possession of the Schedule I narcotic, and...Published: Dec 9, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, December 8, 2008
They love a parade: Pikeville kicks off holiday
Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus ride on their town-sponsored float -- a replica of their living room -- and wave to the crowd lining the streets during the Pikeville Christmas Parade Sunday afternoon. Town police estimated that about 500 people turned...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Vehicle defaults on rise in counties
Automobile repossessions have increased in the past several months, and it's not just high-end sports cars getting the hook. "I went from picking up five cars a day to 10 cars a day," said Eddie of Final Notice Recovery, a...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive interviews candidates for new recreation director position
MOUNT OLIVE -- Interviews were held last Tuesday and Thursday nights as the town continued its search for a new recreation director. The list of applicants has been narrowed to four people including ones from Mount Olive, Goldsboro, Warsaw...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials: Shortfall will hurt families
Focused largely on helping struggling working families, officials with the North Carolina Justice Center presented their thoughts on the current and upcoming state budget situations Friday, and like many watching the state government, they were not optimistic. Using numbers...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials: Downtown development still has ways to go
Sixteen months after Goldsboro City Council unanimously approved a 10-year master plan to better the downtown area, Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. Director Julie Thompson says there is still a long road ahead. At the August 2007 council meeting, members were...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
National Guard units tapped for duty
More than four years ago, members of the 230th Brigade Support Battalion were working hand-in-hand with the Army's 1st Infantry Division in Iraq. In a few months -- without a major development at home or abroad -- they are going...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Senior Center trying to establish support groups
Wayne County Services on Aging is trying to find out if the residents it serves are interested in establishing a support group. Wellsprings Center in Goldsboro has announced that it is willing to run a support group at the...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
GATEWAY seeking sponsors for benches
GATEWAY, the Goldsboro-Wayne Transportation Authority, is looking for sponsors for its recently purchased bus stop benches. So far, of the 40 benches purchased, three have been installed -- one at the Wayne County Senior Center on South John Street,...Published: Dec 8, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Foreclosures in Wayne: It could be worse
Wayne County rode out a wave of home foreclosures in October and another upward climb might be on the horizon, but Realtors and lenders say the area is in better shape than other parts of the country. "We do some...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Goldsboro calls special council meeting
The Goldsboro City Council will hold a special meeting Monday at 3 p.m. in the large conference room at the City Hall Addition to discuss the budget and how Stoney Creek Park and the Community Recreation Center fit into the...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Christmas cheer
It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas Saturday in Wayne County, as five cities and townships held their annual holiday parades. A fleet of classic cars cruised Main Street at 1 p.m. in Fremont, including a canary yellow...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Officials identify victims of house fire
Goldsboro officials have identified the two victims of an early Thursday morning blaze as Joseph Wiggs and Hilda Allen. Wiggs, 54, and Ms. Allen, 64, were renting the 1506 Dakota St. home, which was found fully engulfed when fire fighters...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Veterans' stories
One saw Europe through the eyes of a fighter pilot. Another watched friends fall in the Vietnam jungle. And there is a marksman, weapons officer and truck driver -- even a pair of medics. Eight men living together in an...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Community member has heart, puts soles on children's feet
For five years Paul Benton has worked to provide shoes to every foster child in Wayne County. Three years ago, he said, that meant making Christmas a little better for 120 children. Two years ago it was 82. This year...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Faison opposes Fibrowatt plant
FAISON -- Months of negotiations between the town and officials of a Pennsylvania-based company that plans to build a $140 million poultry litter-fueled power plant just west of town have gone up in smoke. The town last month effectively broke...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive Small Town group looking for more input, members
MOUNT OLIVE -- The revitalization of the west side of the 200 block of North Center Street is the most visible sign of the Small Town Main Street group's support of efforts to help spark a renewed life and interest...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Walnut Creek facing sewer problems
WALNUT CREEK -- Problems with the Village of Walnut Creek's sewer system topped discussions at Tuesday's third and final town hall meeting, as well as at its village council meeting Wednesday. On Tuesday, some of the 30 residents in attendance...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Wayne County unemployment rate rises
More Wayne County residents were without a job in October, as the jobless rate increased to 6.4 percent -- up 0.1 percent from September. Bill Pate, manager of the local Employment Security Commission, said he knew the rate would...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Public Record
Student cited for weapon on high school campus A Charles B. Aycock student was cited for accidentally brining his hunting bow and arrows in school property inside his Jeep Cherokee, according to a report. Christopher Steward, 17, was given a...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Parade Saturday
It was beginning to look a lot like Christmas Saturday in Wayne County, as five cities and townships held their annual holiday parades. A fleet of classic cars cruised Main Street at 1 p.m. in Fremont, including a canary yellow...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Walnut Creek facing sewer problems
WALNUT CREEK -- Problems with the Village of Walnut Creek's sewer system topped discussions at Tuesday's third and final town hall meeting, as well as at its village council meeting Wednesday. On Tuesday, some of the 30 residents in...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Veterans' stories
One saw Europe through the eyes of a fighter pilot. Another watched friends fall in the Vietnam jungle. And there is a marksman, weapons officer and truck driver -- even a pair of medics. Eight men living together in an...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Officials identify victims of house fire
Goldsboro officials have identified the two victims of an early Thursday morning blaze as Joseph Wiggs and Hilda Allen. Wiggs, 54, and Ms. Allen, 64, were renting the 1506 Dakota St. home, which was found fully engulfed when fire...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Mount Olive Small Town group looking for more input, members
MOUNT OLIVE -- The revitalization of the west side of the 200 block of North Center Street is the most visible sign of the Small Town Main Street group's support of efforts to help spark a renewed life and...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Faison opposes Fibrowatt plant
FAISON -- Months of negotiations between the town and officials of a Pennsylvania-based company that plans to build a $140 million poultry litter-fueled power plant just west of town have gone up in smoke. The town last month effectively...Published: Dec 7, 2008 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, December 5, 2008
It's not over until the campaign chair drums
United Way of Wayne County's 2008 campaign chairman David Perry kept his promise to the community Thursday -- and Donna Cook of Park Designs took home a brand new car. After announcing that Wayne County businesses and individuals had donated...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Alliance looks to trim park costs
Members of the Stoney Creek Park Alliance met Thursday afternoon to discuss how to cut down the $1.17 million price tag that has been projected for a first-rate park. Alliance members say they don't need a state-of-the-art park, just something...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Base to simulate emergency response
If you hear sirens blaring and see local emergency responders racing toward the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base gate next week, don't panic. It is only a test. Airmen from both the 4th Fighter Wing and 916th Air Refueling Wing...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Parade prep: Holiday marches set for Saturday
Santa Claus will be hopping on Saturday. The day will be the big Christmas parade day in Wayne County and surrounding towns, with five scheduled. Mount Olive will hold its parade at 10 a.m., Fremont at 1 p.m., Princeton also...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Annexation topic of Mount Olive board session
MOUNT OLIVE -- Annexation, a dirty word among many property owners in Wayne County, was a topic of conversation among Mount Olive Town Commissioners at their Monday night session. Meanwhile, Town Manager Charles Brown will be in Raleigh today...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Grand Jury sends up county indictments
Two men caught with about 6.4 pounds of cocaine in LaGrange were indicted by a Wayne County Grand Jury this month, court records show. Adelaido Campos, 53, of Leaning Post Lane, LaGrange, was charged with trafficking in cocaine by possession...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Woman forced into home at gunpoint Nekita Seaberry, 23, of Charles Street told police she was opening her door late on Wednesday night when approached by a man with a handgun. Ms. Seaberry reported she was forced inside and the...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin board selects leaders
KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County commissioners have elected Cary Turner of Beautancus as chairman and Reginald Wells of Rose Hill as vice chairman. The commissioners, meeting Monday in the county administration building in Kenansville, also received a new member, Frances...Published: Dec 5, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Mount Olive board OKs new sign, first depot contracts
MOUNT OLIVE -- A decades-old traffic pattern is about to change for motorists, and a local historic landmark is getting a makeover. Mount Olive Town Board members talked about the long-awaited depot renovation project and the traffic change at...Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
County will get $400,000 for local housing rehabilitation
Wayne County officials are hopeful a $400,000 grant will allow the county to rehabilitate between 12-14 houses. Commissioners applied for the grant in October, were notified last week it had been approved, and Monday morning officially voted to accept...Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Former News-Argus editor releases book of stories, writings
So for those with whom he has shared a chat, it comes as no surprise that the 55-year newsroom veteran is storytelling again. Price's newly published "Folks Around Here" is a collection, he says, of humorous and serious columns and...Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Don Davis to resign as Snow Hill mayor
Snow Hill Mayor Don Davis announced Tuesday that he will step down from his post on Monday as he prepares to take his seat as the District 5 state senator in January. Davis, a Democrat, defeated Republican state Rep....Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Cherry worker charged in assault
A Cherry Hospital worker has been charged with sexually abusing a patient. Perry J. Butler was charged with felony sexual offense Monday. He stands accused of having sex with the patient. Butler was released from the Wayne County Jail Tuesday...Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Board asks for input on building site
The board of trustees of the old Community Building wants Wayne County residents to help decide what should be done with land the board owns on the corner of William and Walnut streets. A public meeting is set for Jan....Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Couple die in blaze
Two people died in a Dakota Street house fire early this morning, and state investigators have been called in, fire officials said. Arson is not suspected at this point, Capt. Bernard Patterson said. The names of the two victims, a...Published: Dec 4, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Schools have ways to meet state's demand for money back
School officials have identified areas where nearly $760,000 can be cut by year's end to meet the state's demands to offset its budget shortfall. Late last month Wayne County Public School was notified by the Department of Public Instruction of...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Cold snap: How long before we snap out of it?
This morning's cold snap was just a passing thing, said National Weather Service Meteorologist Mike Moneypenny -- a normal winter fluctuation in temperatures. With a low this morning in the mid-20s -- only 5 to 10 degrees below normal --...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
A cost justified? County debates merits of one-stop voting election expenditures
Wayne County Commissioner Andy Anderson questioned Monday morning the need and cost effectiveness of the two additional one-stop voting sites utilized by the county during last month's election. Anderson said the county's three primary one-stop sites had experienced a...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
City anticipates $2.2 million budget deficit
Goldsboro may see budget shortfalls of more than $2.2 million at the end of this fiscal year, City Council members learned Monday -- shortages that may put pressure on future projects such as the Community Recreation Center. But, said...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Man shot, injured near Ash Street KFC
Five undercover Sheriff's Department deputies were in an Ash Street fast food restaurant Tuesday when a man was shot outside nearby, according to Goldsboro police reports. Police made an arrest about eight hours after the 12:30 p.m. shooting near...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Empty Stocking Fund needs your help
Unless donations to the Empty Stocking Fund increase soon, organizers say they will have a difficult time making the annual party for needy children a success. The goal for this year's event, which has been held for nearly a...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin County commissioners adopt new tax valuation rates
KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners adopted new property tax values Monday, but the board made no promises about lowering the tax rate for next year to offset the increases that most property owners will see. Commissioners...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspects sought in horse, cow shootings
Authorities are searching for a suspect in two separate shootings that killed two farm animals, a cow and a horse, Wayne County Animal Control officials said. But ballistic analysis, which is sometimes used in animal shootings, will not help...Published: Dec 3, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Wayne development rating improves
Despite several recent announcements of job loss and the fact that its actual economic situation is largely unchanged from last year, the state Department of Commerce moved Wayne County up in its 2009 economic development tier rankings. A Tier...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
County weighs parking lot rules
A proposal to require businesses in Wayne County with six or more parking spaces to have their parking lots paved drew criticism from some members of the Wayne County Board of Commissioners on Monday. Jack Best and Andy Anderson...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Christmas tree sales: Is it a sign of holiday health?
Wayne Jackson, left, and Brownie Southerland, the owner of Bo-tank-us Christmas Tree Farm, prepare a Fraser fir for a customer. The tree was grown in the mountains, but customers can also pick from live trees grown on the farm on...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
DGDC takes look at new office
The Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. might have found a new office. The Maxwell family recently donated the commercial buildings on North John Street between Mulberry and Ash streets to the city, and the DGDC is considering moving its office to...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Council reviews Stoney Creek Park plan
More than a million dollars will likely be needed to develop Stoney Creek Park into the greenspace the alliance supporting the park project envisions, Goldsboro City Council members learned Monday. The cost projection, prepared by consulting and architectural firm Kimley-Horn...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Man shot in car A Fremont man was shot while sitting in a car at a hotel on South Harding Drive early Saturday morning, Goldsboro police said. Anthony Montreal McClain, 20, of N.C. 581, was transported to Wayne Memorial...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Patrol car rear ends woman's vehicle
A Wayne County Sheriff's Office patrol car struck a woman's vehicle near the intersection of U.S. 117 and U.S. 13 on Monday. Cpl. Kenneth Grice will be charged in the incident, Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders said today. "Apparently, what...Published: Dec 2, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, December 1, 2008
For their children: Shriners share holiday spirit
The annual Shriners and Shrinettes Christmas party Sunday night at the Wayne County Shrine Club gave the hard-working members a chance to meet the children they help, and to spread some holiday cheer. Eight children, all patients at the Greenville,...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Recycling revenue curbed by downturn
One man's junk might be another man's treasure, but in today's sour economic market the junk, at least the recyclable kind, isn't as valuable as it once was. People continue to recycle, but the premium prices the materials once...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Boys and Girls Club board will serve pancakes this Saturday
Buying a stack of pancakes this weekend could help give a Wayne County child a place to go after school. The Boys and Girls Club will have its annual Pancake Day Saturday at the club, which is located at 1401...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
ML Teacher nominated for Presidential Award
Tracy Thomas, a second-grade teacher at Meadow Lane Elementary School, has been named one of three state finalists in the 2008 Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Program. A teacher for more than 14 years, Ms. Thomas...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Two new commissioners take their oaths
Dr. Sandra McCullen of the Sleepy Creek community near Dudley and Steve Keen of Rosewood took the oath of office this morning as the newest members of the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. In both cases, the new commissioners...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Junior Leadership Wayne County teaches young community members valuable skills
For 11 years, Junior Leadership Wayne County has provided a chance for high school juniors to learn more about their hometown area and participate in volunteer service opportunities. The program is open to students in private, public and home schools...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro teen competing in 2008 Miss Jr. Teen Raleigh pageant
Sterling Kathleen Simmons of Goldsboro will be competing in the Nationals Inc. 2008 Miss Jr. Teen Raleigh pageant this year on Sunday, Dec. 14. She will be competing in the Miss Jr. Teen division, one of four divisions that...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont aldermen want to give new life to old trash cans
FREMONT -- As Fremont town officials work to cut costs wherever possible, residents will likely be getting their old trash cans back for use as recycling bins. The cans, used for the last 17 years, were retired earlier this...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Population key factor in getting restaurant
While the economy might be keeping some businesses from expanding around the country in general and in Wayne County in particular, what is keeping restaurants away is one factor, local development officials say -- who lives here. Many of...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story
Walnut Creek to hold final town hall meeting to hear residents' concerns
The Walnut Creek Village Council will hold its third and final town hall meeting Tuesday night. The meeting, an open forum between residents and council members, will be held at the Walnut Creek Country Club at 7 p.m. The...Published: Dec 1, 2008 1:46 PM Full Story