Monday, August 31, 2009
Commission has light agenda; hearing still set
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning will have what appears to be the briefest agenda that has come before them over the past several months. However, the board room on the fourth floor of the county courthouse annex will still...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Health Department trying new appointment procedure
The Wayne County Health Department is moving to a more efficient way of providing care in two of its clinics this week. "Open access appointment scheduling" goes into effect Tuesday for family planning and sexually transmitted disease clinics. The...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
New N.C. tax hikes in effect Tuesday
Going shopping will get a little more expensive Tuesday, as an additional 1 percent state sales and use tax increase goes into effect. The increase, which is meant to be temporary, will raise the combined state and county sales...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC holding business seminars
The Business and Industry Center of Wayne Community College has announced its schedule of nine free seminars for this fall designed to prepare the business person to meet the ever increasing challenges facing small business. The following are the...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Resident charged in accident
A South Andrews Avenue man was charged Sunday with running a red light after allegedly striking three vehicles, according to a police report. Joe Craven Henry, 68, struck a car driven by Wilma Hamilton on North Spence Avenueen, police reports...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Man's arm cut Earl Barnes of North Virginia Street was cut on the right-arm biceps after a woman approached him on his porch and asked for money, according to a police report. Barnes reported that when he refused to give...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Register of Deeds fees going up
Beginning Tuesday, fees are increasing at the Wayne County Register of Deeds. On Tuesday, the fee for a marriage license will increase from $50 to $60. Then on Oct. 1, the fee for recording a deed will increase. The...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Chiefs fly to join Afghanistan fight
There were no long embraces between husbands and wives along the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base flight line Sunday afternoon -- no children running in for one last hug before their mothers and fathers left for war. For the more...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Four-day week gets high marks in county
Most Wayne County government offices are winding down the final month of a yearlong experiment in a four-day workweek that could end up saving the equivalent of almost a penny on the tax rate. As of May, direct and...Published: Aug 31, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, August 30, 2009
335th Fighter Squadron
More than 300 members of the 335th Fighter Squadron boarded a DC-10 bound for Afghanistan at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base on Sunday morning. Once they arrive in theater, members of the squadron will be charged with providing close...Published: Aug 30, 2009 4:50 PM Full Story
Untitled Story
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Wayne County tax notices in the mail
By Tuesday, some of the roughly 70,000 annual tax bills mailed Monday afternoon for real estate, individual personal property and business personal property began showing up in mailboxes across the county. All of the bills should be delivered by...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
World War II veteran receives medals after half century
Donning a finely pressed, vibrant set of Air Force blues, Howard Holt Thornton approached 4th Fighter Wing Commander Col. Mark Kelly with a hand extended Saturday morning. The technical sergeant might have worn his flight suit -- the one he...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Jobless rate rises slightly in Wayne
Wayne County saw another slight increase in the unemployment rate for July. The rate increased from 9.4 percent to 9.8 percent in the area. "It's significant, but it isn't that significant," said Ron Zeimmer, veterans employment consultant at the Unemployment...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Golden Rule will feature incentives for teachers
A 15 percent discount on heating and air conditioning work might not sound like something normally associated with teacher recruitment, but for Teacher Recruitment and Retention Committee chairwoman Beverly Carroll, it is the kind of benefit that will help the...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Norwayne reunion Sept. 4-6
Norwayne Alumni & Friends will hold its 37th reunion Sept. 4-6. Activities will begin with a social gathering Friday at 7 p.m. at the Norwayne Community Center on E. Branch Street in Fremont. On Saturday, activities will include a parade...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
297 turn tassels at Mount Olive College
MOUNT OLIVE -- "Non-traditional students" -- the ones not earning degrees in two- or four-year blocks -- had their moment in the sun Saturday as Mount Olive College graduated 297 students with associate and bachelor's degrees. N.C. Secretary of Com-merce...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Highway Patrol safety 'carnival' to be held Sept. 12
Officials with the North Carolina Highway Patrol are planning a "Community Day," Sept. 12 at the Wal-Mart near Rosewood to emphasize the need for safety on the road. The carnival-like event will feature not only child-safety seat checks and...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Four Wayne nurses among state's 100 best
Rick Sutton began his career at Wayne Memorial Hospital as a dishwasher in the cafeteria. That didn't last too long. Witnessing the hard-working efforts of nurses, he decided to take a similar path, starting out as what was then called...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Girl Scouts share experiences with potential 'recruits'
Although she has a couple guesses, Lillie Thompson isn't sure why enrollment for the Girl Scout troops in the area is "dropping rapidly." And that was part of the reason for the "Taste of Girl Scouts" program held Saturday in...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Cornerstone Award nominations sought
The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Cornerstone Award recognizes annually an individual who has truly been a "cornerstone" for this county. The Cornerstone Award was created in 1996. Past recipients are: Richard B. Moffatt, Hal Tanner Sr., Clarence "Icky"...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Boy Scout sign-ups schedule
Representatives from local Boy Scout units will visit Wayne County elementary schools during September and October to give boys the opportunity sign up for Cub Scouts. The character-building Scout-ing programs offer a variety of activities such as camps, outdoor exploration,...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Berkeley widening workshop Monday
The state Department of Transportation will hold an informal workshop Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faith Alliance Church at 3203 Cashwell Drive on the propoped widening of Berkeley Boulevard from Royall Avenue to New Hope Road. DOT...Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Animal control director search back on
It will be at least October before the county hires anyone to take over the animal control director's office left vacant in June when Justin Scally left to take a job with the Humane Society of the United States....Published: Aug 30, 2009 12:26 AM Full Story
Friday, August 28, 2009
He's WCPS choice for top teacher
Gregory Brown grew up on a farm in Saulston, playing school in an old barn. Yet when the North Drive Elementary School teacher finally obtained his teaching degree years later, he almost didn't use it. Thursday night, he was named...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public can address planning ordinance
The public will have a chance Tuesday night to express its opinion on proposed changes to the county's subdivision ordinance that would give county commissioners the final say in the plat approval process. The public meeting, sponsored by the...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Economy taking toll on pets
The economy may be affecting more than just people in Wayne County. Wayne County Animal Control and the Humane Society have both seen an increase in their services. "The adoption rate has dropped some and the turn in rate (to...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Their school debut
Philip Rhodes, camera around his neck, was at Rosewood Elementary School early Thursday to drop off his daughter, Karrigann, for her first day of kindergarten. "She's my fifth child -- my last child," he said. Inside the classroom, teacher Amanda...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Report of abductor was just a mistake
Reports of a suspicious male attempting to have children get in his car at a bus stop turned out to be a misunderstanding, authorities said. Authorities first received reports on Tuesday that a male had attempted to lure children...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Red Cross to hold hurricane prep program Saturday at mall
Hurricane season is already halfway over, but people still need to be prepared for one anyway. To help, the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will have a hurricane preparedness day Saturday from noon to 3 p.m....Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Meth lab found in home, suspect hiding
A Stevens Mill Road man indicted in April on drug charges is now accused of running a clandestine meth lab out of his home, authorities said. George Blake Grantham, 34, is in hiding from after Wayne County Sheriff's Office...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Girl Scouts holding signups, Saturday event scheduled
Girls ages five to 17 are invited to join the fun, friendship, and power of Girl Scouting. Through Scouting, girls can learn the importance of personal responsibility, the value of goal setting, the spirit of teamwork,and the thrill of...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Former Cherry employee pleads guilty to assault
A former Cherry Hospital worker accused of sexually abusing a male patient pleaded guilty this week to a felony sexual offense. Perry J. Butler will serve a 60-day active sentence for the offense, according to court records. Butler was...Published: Aug 28, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Moonshine exhibit planned at Wayne County Museum
Whether you call it mountain dew, pop-skull, forty-rod or just plain old white lightning, moonshine and the people who made it are an indelible part of North Carolina's history, and now the Wayne County Museum is setting up a...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive College sets sights on stopping H1N1 now
Mount Olive College officials weren't surprised over the weekend when they learned that samples from one of their students were being sent off for testing for the H1N1 virus. Jo Morgan, director of the Student Health Center, explained that...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
916th troops deploy
Dozens of airmen from the 916th Air Refueling Wing walked the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base flight line this morning before boarding a KC-135R Stratotanker and beginning several-month tours in the Pacific and Middle East. And hundreds more from the...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Godette accepts plea deal: 42 years
An 18-year-old Elroy area man was sentenced Wednesday to more than 42 years in prison in Wayne County Superior Court for a violent crime spree in September 2007. Christin Ray Godette, who was 16 when he was accused of...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Miss Goldsboro Golf Tournament scheduled
The first annual Miss Goldsboro Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Lane Tree Golf Club. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Miss Goldsboro Scholarship Association, a preliminary to the Miss America Scholarship...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Home invasion A Holloman Lane home was invaded and robbed on Tuesday night just after 9 p.m., according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. Osbeldo Velasquez, 38; Otonial Perez, 37; and six children aged 6 through 13 were the...Published: Aug 27, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Schools get 'A' on first day
School officials reported a smooth transition to the start of school Tuesday, with 18,116 students reporting the first day. Enrollment was below last year's start of school, when 18,267 students turned out for the first day. By the 10th day,...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County will pick top teacher at Thursday event
Wayne County Public Schools' "Teacher of the Year" will be announced on Thursday evening, from a pool of three finalists. The annual recognition will be held at the Walnut Creek Country Club at 6:30 p.m. Earlier in the spring, a...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
SAT scores drop a bit for county students
Wayne County Public Schools' Scholastic Aptitude Test, or SAT, scores dropped slightly for 2008-09, according to results released Tuesday by the College Board. The county compared favorably with districts across the state. Decreases were primarily in the area of critical...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
AARP chapter announces paper products drive for charity
As anyone with a large family knows, toilet paper disappears at an alarming rate when there are many people living in a household, and the Operation Transition house is no exception. Taking a tour of the home inspired AARP...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Alleged victim tells tale of attack
A witness testified Tuesday that a 16-year-old she knew entered her home and dragged her around by the hair, punching her in the face before she tried to defend herself, first with a lamp and then a heavy shoe....Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Community Home Care & Hospice looking for volunteers
Community Home Care & Hospice is in need of more volunteers. People who have a little spare time and would like to make a difference in a Hospice patient's life are urged to volunteer. Opportunities include direct-care, indirect care, clerical,...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Farmers struggle to deal with early tobacco harvest
Halfway through the tobacco harvesting season, local farmers are racing the clock. The increased rainfall in the area recently has caused many of the tobacco plants to ripen early, said Kevin Johnson, field extension agent. "The quality is good,...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Armed robbery Raymond Hope of Benton Street told police he was robbed at gunpoint in the 1700 block of East Holly Street over the weekend, according to a police report. Hope reported on Monday that he had fallen asleep in...Published: Aug 26, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Two arrested on cocaine trafficking charge
Two people were charged with cocaine-trafficking related charges on Monday, according to a news release issued by the Goldsboro-Wayne County Drug Squad.Carlos Daniel Medina, 29, of Indian Springs Road, Mount Olive, faces four counts of trafficking in cocaine for the...Published: Aug 25, 2009 3:26 PM Full Story
Sen. Hagan: Health care reform cost a concern
Visiting Wilber's Barbecue in Goldsboro Monday, Sen. Kay Hagan outlined for a group of elected officials the basic framework she believes an eventual health care reform bill will take. However, she acknowledged that paying for such an effort will...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Back in class
Sonja Emerson, assistant principal at Tommy's Road Elementary School, was positioned outside the entrance bright and early this morning. She cheerily greeted students and parents, who began to arrive shortly after 7:30. "Good morning, Linwood," she said to one. "You're...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Contractor questions bid choice for communication towers project
A contractor who submitted a lower bid to Wayne County, but who did not get the job of erecting a pair of communications towers, has hinted to county officials that he is considering legal action. Commissioners awarded the job...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Godette will face charges in attacks
Christin Ray Godette was 16 years old when the Wayne County Sheriff's Office accused him of a spree of robberies and physical and sexual assaults that spanned over two weekends in September 2007. Nearly two years later, Godette, now...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Police car flips in accident A police car partially turned on its side after an accident on East Ash Street in Goldsboro on Sunday night, according to a Highway Patrol investigation into the incident. Highway Patrol First Sgt. Jerry Burton...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Blue Ribbon Fund soon will hit $20,000 mark
Donations are still being made the Blue Ribbon Fund, an account established by the News-Argus to honor the families of two Seymour Johnson Air Force Base captains who died last month when their F-15E Strike Eagle went down in Afghanistan....Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Three arrested in BB-gun shooting
Wayne County detectives say they were suspicious from the start about an Eastern Wayne student's explanation for a BB-gun wound. Now, the 18-year-old, Dahamoney Hakem Murchison, is charged with filing a false police report on Aug. 8. Detectives from...Published: Aug 25, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, August 24, 2009
Eastern Wayne student charged in false BB gun report
An Eastern Wayne High School student is charged with lying to Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies about how he really got shot with a BB gun at the school earlier this month, authorities said.Dahamoney Hakem Murchison, 18, is charged with...Published: Aug 24, 2009 2:46 PM Full Story
WARM Hearts mentors share time, companionship with local youths
The word "mentor" means teacher, but for the children and teens in the Wayne Area Role Models mentoring program, it also translates to "pool party." The WARM Hearts party at the YMCA swimming pool was just one of the...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
New meth production technique hits Wayne
Whether they call it "shake 'n bake" or the "one-pot method," it is a new, simple and extremely dangerous way to make the illicit and toxic stimulant methamphetamine -- and it has already hit Wayne County. Meth-makers could be...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
Date set for chili cookoff fundraiser for charity
It's time to break out the running shoes and chili recipes. The Community Soup Kitchen of Goldsboro is gearing up for its annual Really Chili Challenge and 2 Hot 2 Trot 5K Road Run on Oct. 24. Runners and cooking...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
County's parking lot rules revamped
The new parking lot standards voted into existence by Wayne County commissioners were the second of two zoning ordinance changes being promoted as tools to ensure more orderly and attractive growth. However, before enacting the rules, the board agreed...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
Symphony seeks youth chamber musicians
Special to The News-Argus The North Carolina Symphony has created the North Carolina Symphony Young All-Stars, a new chamber orchestra for advanced high school musicians, led by its music director Grant Llewellyn in partnership with the Triangle's Philharmonic Association and...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
Red Cross plans special 'storm' drive
The Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross will have a special blood drive Aug. 29 from noon to 3 p.m. at Berkeley Mall. Red Cross staff will be giving out hurricane information -- everything you need to know...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
Kitty Askins volunteers launch $4M capital campaign
Kitty Askins Hospice Center volunteers are looking for donors to help with an expansion project that would add 12 more beds to the facility. Late last year, Kitty Askins received state approval to proceed with a plan to double its...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
His brother's turn
Carson and Victor Thomas have always been the best of friends, perhaps because they were part of a military family and came to rely on one another. They are in many ways typical siblings -- taking turns teasing and roughhousing,...Published: Aug 24, 2009 1:59 PM Full Story
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Suspect in city shooting in custody
The suspect in a shooting last Saturday was apprehended in Wilson with assistance of police there, a Goldsboro police detective reported. Goldsboro police had been searching for Tavaris L. Lane, 33, since he allegedly fired at Marlow Eugene Holmes,...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Sheriff's deputies use sting to catch suspect
After a rash of recent motorcycle and four-wheeler thefts, detectives from the Sheriff's Office took a new approach -- pick a four-wheeler to watch, then wait for it to be stolen. The technique worked, according to arresting officer Larry N....Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
WCC breaks enrollment record
Enrollment at Wayne Community College is expected to break previous records, officials say, and much of that increase can be attributed to the economy. "Typically when the economy is poor, people come to school," Dr. Kay Albertson, WCC president, said...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
WCC holds steady after budget cuts from state
It's been a tight budget year, but Wayne Community College fared better than most and President Dr. Kay Albertson says the college will be "growing with less." "We know we're not going to have the funds we had in...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Council takes another look at W.A. Foster Center
More than a year after Goldsboro City Council members discussed whether making repairs at the W.A. Foster Center was feasible, the board has been presented with a list of work that needs to be done there -- courtesy of...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Read their signs ... 'no' to government
A crowd of about 100 mostly white, mostly older and retired people, including many from the military, gathered early Saturday morning in downtown Goldsboro to protest the federal health care bill. The health care bill wasn't the only target...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Base project kept $23 million at home
A ribbon-cutting ceremony held last week on Seymour Johnson Air Force Base marked far more than the completion of a corrosion-control hangar and squadron operations building. For Daniels and Daniels Construction Co. -- the local firm awarded the $23...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
ArtSmarts program still taking applications
The city of Goldsboro and Wayne County's arts community are again teaming up to provide local children with an after-school program meant to nurture their artistic side. Applications are still being accepted for this year's ArtSmarts program, a curriculum designed...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Bunge North America building in Duplin
A major agriculture commodity industry will build its next East Coast transport hub in Duplin County, officials announced last week. Bunge North America, which has branches dedicated to commodity oils, grain, milling, biofuel, fertilizer and oilseed processing, is in the...Published: Aug 23, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, August 21, 2009
Shooting suspect apprehended
Goldsboro police reported late Friday that a suspect in a Saturday shooting at the Economy Inn in Goldsboro had been apprehended, Investigator Doug Bethea reported. Tavaris L. Lane is charged in the shooting of Marlow Eugene Holmes, 34, of North...Published: Aug 21, 2009 4:38 PM Full Story
Solicitors could find new rules in county
Sheriff Carey Winders joked with county commissioners this week that he didn't want to stop door-to-door salespeople because he was going to be one of them when he campaigns in 2010. However, he said commissioners do need to consider...Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Meeting their new schools
Georgia Lei Bryan, 6, patiently colored a picture while her mother attended open house at Dillard Academy on Thursday evening. "She's ready," mom Gwendolyn Bryan said of the first-grader. "My Aunt Tina had me studying, she was teaching me math...Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Car recovered from river
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office pulled a stolen car out of the Neuse River on Thursday morning. Miranda Cotton of Raynor Mill Road reported her 1999 Cadillac Catera stolen around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Capt. Tom Effler said. Authorities had...Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Rally set Saturday to protest health bill
A local businessman is urging Wayne County residents to help him raise awareness about the health care reform bill currently being debated across the nation. GOECO president Frank Drohan has organized what he is calling the "Citizen's Rally," an event...Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Officer promoted
The Goldsboro Police Department announced the promotion of Sgt. Theresa Chiero to the rank of captain, a promotion taking effect on Aug. 26, according to a news release issued by the department....Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Worker hurt in Airgas explosion
A male worker at Airgas National Welders was severely injured after an oxygen cylinder he was filling ruptured on Thursday morning, a company spokesman said. Jay Worley, Airgas Vice President for Communications and Investor Relations, said the name of...Published: Aug 21, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Seniors get chance to buy fresh produce direct from local farms
John Dockery says he is "pie-thirsty" and ready for some sweet potato pie. Dockery bought fresh sweet potatoes Tuesday morning at the Wayne County Senior Center, which now has fresh produce available to the seniors every Tuesday. Travis Uzzell...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County students get glimpses of schools
Middle and high schools around the county welcomed families Wednesday night as part of the district's open house to usher in the new school year. Hallways filled quickly as students reunited with friends or located schedules and supply lists before...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Newspaper's oak has to come down
Goldsboro lost a landmark and The News-Argus an old friend when the big southern red oak tree in front of the newspaper office on Berkeley Boulevard was cut down today. The tree, which experts say is more than 100 years...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin County staff concerned about consolidation plans
KENANSVILLE -- School consolidation and an open enrollment policy could hurt Duplin County students, several high school principals told the Board of Education Tuesday night. At the request of the school board, all five of the county's high school...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Chairman has say on end to planning board dispute
Wayne County Commission Chairman Bud Gray Tuesday morning invoked the late President Harry Truman when he reminded the public, and specifically the Planning Board, that "the buck stops here." Gray said it was regrettable that Planning Board Chairman Chris...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Suspect sought in home invasion A Belfast Road woman reported her house was broken into Tuesday afternoon while she was at home. Robin Stephens told the Wayne County Sheriff's Office that a young white man assaulted her after gaining entry...Published: Aug 20, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Director addresses Cherry Hospital future
With Cherry Hospital expecting to receive its official federal certification any day now, Director Philip Cook is looking forward to continuing the process of improving the state psychiatric facility. Speaking to the Goldsboro Rotary Club Tuesday, Cook said hospital...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thirty sought in meth raids in Mount Olive area
MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive police, aided by officers from surrounding law enforcement agencies, took more than a dozen suspects into custody early today in a drug roundup aimed at slicing into the methamphetamine trafficking in the area. The first...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
$900M gas plant coming to county
A $900 million investment by Progress Energy will help lessen the sting felt earlier this week when Turkington USA officials announced the company and its 120 jobs were moving to Clayton. Progress Energy officials Tuesday afternoon announced plans to...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin to vote on quarter-cent sales tax increase
Duplin County residents will have a chance to vote next year on a quarter-cent sales tax increase that could generate about $822,000 for the county's volunteer fire departments. County commissioners voted unanimously Monday to add the proposed increase to the...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Flurry of motions shows commissioners divided on local planning issues
Five motions, all with different split outcomes Tuesday morning, underscored the rift between Wayne County Commissioners where the county Planning Board is concerned. The motions came during a work session to discuss some commissioners' call to amend the county...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning session set for Mount Olive College dinner
MOUNT OLIVE -- The planning session for the 2009 Wayne County gift support dinner for Mount Olive College will be held Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at First Free Will Baptist Church of Goldsboro. During the session, Jean F. Ackiss,...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
White House just latest step in Peele's journey
Just eight years ago, Christian Peele was going to school at Greenwood Middle School in Goldsboro. But come September, Peele will go to work in the White House. Peele, 22, was recently accepted into the White House Internship Program,...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials work on how best to deal with highway corridor issues
Highway corridor protection has been on the minds of many Wayne County residents for the past several months, but here has been no clear understanding of how and if that can be accomplished. The only option discussed so far...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin commissioners pay solid waste money
Duplin County Commissioners voted Monday to put $150,000 from the general fund into the solid waste fund, replacing money used to pay the salary of a solid waste enforcement officer who allegedly at the same time performed work for...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin begins to look at leasing hospital
Duplin General Hospital could be under new management by October 2010 if the Duplin County Commissioners vote to proceed with a proposal to lease the facility to a larger system. Hospital President Harvey Case spoke to the board earlier...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont board agrees to help new business with grant
Beginning steps were taken Tuesday night to turn a vacant eyesore into a new business in Fremont. The old gas station at 103 S. Wilson St. was recently purchased by Sonny and Cammie Odeh. The two were seeking approval...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Filing period reopened for Seven Springs town board seat
The death of Seven Springs town Commissioner Rodolph Adams has triggered the reopening of the filing period for one of the two seats on the Seven Springs town board. The filing opened this morning at 8 and will remain...Published: Aug 19, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
US Airways Flight 1594 Survivor Barry Leonard Visits Goldsboro
US Airways Flight 1594 survivor Barry Leonard speaks publicly for the first time during a meeting at Saint Paul United Methodist Church in Goldsboro, N.C. on Monday, Aug. 17, 2009. Leonard, 56, of Charlotte, N.C., was one of the first...Published: Aug 18, 2009 2:42 PM Full Story
Progress Energy announces new power plant
Progress Energy officials this afternoon announced a $900 million project to build a new natural gas-fuel fired power plant at Goldsboro. The new plant that should be operational in early 2013 will replace the three coal-fired units now in use...Published: Aug 18, 2009 2:13 PM Full Story
Local plant will move to Clayton by Sept. 1
Turkington USA and its 120 jobs will begin moving out of the county by the end of the week, and by Sept. 1 will occupy a facility on U.S. 70 West at Clayton. The move comes after efforts by...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro City Council gets Union Station project update
Members of the Goldsboro City Council got a glimpse of what a revitalized Union Station might look like at their meeting Monday evening, courtesy of Gregory Saur from Martin, Alexious & Bryson, PLLC, the firm hired by the Department of...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Reduced highway funding could shift completion dates
A decline in available state transportation funding has bumped several local highway projects, including the eastern and final section of the planned U.S. 70 Bypass and Interstate 795 South, past the year 2035 -- and there is no indication...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Health Department says bring shot records
Wayne County parents are being reminded to take their children's immunization record with them when taking them to the Health Department or to their doctor's office for shots. This helps to ensure that each child is up to date on...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Couple convicted in rapes of hitchhikers
A Goldsboro couple accused of bringing two hitchhikers home from Greensboro to sexually assault them in 2007 pleaded guilty to lesser offenses on Monday in Wayne County Superior Court. Charles Broadie, 46, and Juliet Broadie, of 280 Lee St.,...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Council approves $29,000 for new graduation coach
The Goldsboro City Council voted Monday evening to help the Wayne County government fund a graduation coach at Goldsboro High School. But several council members said their $29,000 pledge -- money that will be used by Communities in Schools...Published: Aug 18, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, August 17, 2009
Famed country music disc jockey loses his battle
Longtime Wayne County radio personality Chester Thompson, 80, died Sunday morning at Pitt Memorial Hospital after spending a week there in critical condition following a one-car crash. And as funeral arrangements are being made, those who knew the host of...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Back to school: Wayne Country Day opens
Wayne Country Day fourth-grader Grayson Strickland hands his folders to Marsha Compton on his first day back in school. More than 250 students reported to class this morning. Some private schools in Wayne are already started back for the fall...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning on agenda again for county
Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning will consider amending zoning ordinances to regulate off-street parking and loading. Tomorrow's meeting will begin with an 8 a.m. briefing session followed by the formal gathering at 9 a.m. in the commissioners' meeting room...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Students will get look at classrooms this week
Signaling the start of a new school year, Wayne County Public Schools will hold open house events this week. The annual back-to-school nights offer an opportunity to welcome new and returning students to the classroom. It's also an opportunity for...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
MOC looks forward to solid financial year, development
Despite the economic downturn, Mount Olive College is going strong, offering scholarships to students and even moving forward with campus improvement projects. Much of the private college's funding comes from donations and gifts to the school and the Original Free...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Come jam downtown and help families
A month after a Seymour Johnson Air Force Base F-15E went down in Afghanistan, officials from the communities that surround the installation are planning a benefit concert for the families Capt. Mark McDowell and Capt. Thomas Gramith left behind. Downtown...Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect sought in city shooting
Police are looking for a Pikeville man who allegedly shot a 34-year-old Seaboard Street man on Saturday night. Goldsboro Police Sgt. Chad Calloway said that the victim, Marlow Holmes, was seriously injured in the shooting, which occurred about 10:45 p.m....Published: Aug 17, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Wayne mails regional fair catalogues
The 2009 Wayne County Regional Agricultural Fair is in the works with schedule catalogues mailed out Saturday, and this year promises the return of old favorites and the introduction of a few new attractions. The first-ever Lego competition will feature...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
County sales tax revenue drops modestly
Wayne County has experienced a slight slowdown in the hemorrhaging of sales tax revenues. However, County Manager Lee Smith said he is not ready to celebrate yet, and continues to advise that the county live within its means. April's...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Freshmen move in at MOC
MOUNT OLIVE -- One of the biggest freshmen classes in Mount Olive College history arrived on campus Saturday to settle in before the semester gets underway later this week. The Class of 2013 is so big, in fact, that...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Local legislators say session's success was mixed
With the 2009 General Assembly adjourning Tuesday, local legislators left Raleigh with mixed feelings about how the session went. It was, they said, a difficult seven months as the state's budget hardships overshadowed many of the other issues, such...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
County's crime index rate drops
The North Carolina Department of Justice State Bureau of Investigation's recently released 2008 uniform crime reporting data shows a slightly lower index crime rate in Wayne County. The index crime rate includes the total number of violent crimes and...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Vandals strike Tri-County power supply
Some 2,400 Rosewood households were left in the dark for the better part of Friday afternoon after vandalism caused a Tri-County EMC substation to automatically shut down. It was the second time within the past year that the substation...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Travel spending increases in Wayne County
Travel and visitor spending in Wayne County and surrounding counties saw an increase in 2008. Wayne County brought in about $120.26 million in visitor spending in 2008, an increase of about 6.4 percent from 2007. Betsy Rosemann, director of...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Baby sitters today, better parents later
There's more to baby-sitting than getting paid to watch TV while the parents are out. In fact, it just may be preparing youth for the responsibilities that lie ahead. "Better sitters today, better parents tomorrow" is the motto of...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Fedelon Trail remains identified
The Goldsboro Police Department has identified a body found on July 4 as Ricky Glenn Person, 46. The medical examiner's office used dental and medical records to determine it was Person. The report also said there is no indication...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
City names new Parks and Rec director
Nearly a year after hiring Gail Charles as interim director of Goldsboro's Parks and Recreation Department, City Manager Joe Huffman announced a permanent replacement for the 30-year city employee. Former Wake County Parks and Recreation Director David Carter will...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Firefighters help Jerry's kids with boot campaign
More than 65 local firefighters took time out this weekend to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The annual Fill the Boot campaign began Friday and runs through 6 p.m. today. Members of the Goldsboro Fire Department and...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin Schools still awaiting final state budget
Gov. Beverly Perdue signed the state budget into law a week ago, but it could be another nine working days before officials with the Duplin County school system know how many teachers they can hire for the upcoming school year....Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Days of Caring campaign off to solid start
United Way kicked off the Days of Caring Wednesday and is already seeing positive results. The event consists of a week of volunteer opportunities for community members to get a chance to give back and learn more about United...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Public hearings dominate City Council agenda
Three public hearings on zoning requests dominate a light agenda for Monday's Goldsboro City Council meeting. The first involves property on the northwest corner of North Berkeley Boulevard and Lisa Lane. Property owner Glenn Barwick is requesting the Council...Published: Aug 16, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, August 14, 2009
State: No change in Tommy's Road plans
A petition drive to keep Tommy's Road open where it meets the new U.S. 70 Bypass appears to have hit a dead end. Plans that have been in place for years call for the road to be severed by...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
Students learn to restore computers
When Sarah Moore learned she and her classmates were going to dismantle a computer in class, she thought of it like putting together a puzzle. "I thought it was going to be like a car, putting all the pieces...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
Thornton found guilty of cruelty
A former kennel owner was banned from breeding dogs after a judge found her guilty of 12 counts of cruelty to animals on Thursday evening. Virginia Thornton, 66, the former owner of Thornton Kennel near the Wayne-Sampson county line, will...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
Prayer vigil held at City Hall
In a time of financial distress for many people in Wayne County, some local community leaders and elected officials are turning to their faith for guidance. About 40 people attended a Thursday prayer vigil outside Goldsboro City Hall to...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
Benefit raises $50,000
Saturday's benefit to raise money for accident victim Lisa Mozingo and her family brought in more than $50,000. Mozingo, 18, was injured after being ejected from her car on May 19 when it overturned. Christy Shivar, who helped organize...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
916th marks end of $23 million project
A ceremony held at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base this morning formally marked the completion of a $23 million project recommended by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission in 2005. The 916th Air Refueling Wing now has three new...Published: Aug 14, 2009 1:51 PM Full Story
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Smith told Price to hold off on hearings
Wayne County Planning Director Connie Price might have been hesitant Tuesday night to say who told him not to schedule community meetings to discuss zoning, as had been ordered by the county Planning Board. But County Manager Lee Smith...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Kennel owner Thornton on trial
A woman accused of 12 counts of animal cruelty in connection with running an alleged "puppy mill" went to trial Wednesday. Virginia Thornton, 66, former owner of Thornton Kennel, was arrested after some 280 small-breed dogs were seized from...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning board wants hearing changed
The Wayne County Planning Board has asked the county board of commissioners to reschedule a public hearing on proposed changes to the county's subdivision ordinance from morning to evening to allow more people to attend. Failing to convince commissioners...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Early pickin's
Scott Wiggins harvests corn from a field near the Lenoir/Wayne County line Tuesday afternoon. Wayne County Extension Agent Kevin Johnson says there are approximately 33,000 acres of corn planted in the county this growing season, most of which will be...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man gets five years for scheme
GREENVILLE -- United States Attorney George E. B. Holding announced that in federal court Wednesday that U.S. District Judge Malcolm J. Howard sentenced Said Asmar, 56, a Jordanian national residing in Goldsboro, to 63 months' imprisonment for aiding and...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
DHHS secretary visits Cherry
It's time to raise morale and recognize the positive efforts going on at Cherry Hospital, Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Lanier Cansler told Cherry staff members during a visit to the hospital Wednesday. The morning visit was...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Hospital staff cutback due to economy
On the heels of a visit to Cherry Hospital by state DHHS Secretary Lanier Cansler came an announcement that several staff cutbacks had been made due to the economy. Cherry Director Phillip Cook told the News-Argus the "reduction in...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Public record
Man shot in foot Eric Hutchinson of Marlotte Drive was shot in the foot while crossing N.C. 111 South late Tuesday, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. Hutchinson, 42, said he saw a vehicle pass by and heard a...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Fill the Boot set to kick off
The City of Goldsboro Fire Department, with help from the El-Roy Volunteer Fire Department, will be at Wal-Mart on Friday and Saturday, asking people to help "fill the boot," for Jerry's Kids. The annual Fill the Boot campaign is...Published: Aug 13, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
UPDATED: 'Puppy mill' trial begins
The trial of a woman charged with animal cruelty for an alleged 'puppy mill' operation began today. Virginia Thornton, owner of Thornton Kennel near the Wayne-Sampson county line, faces 12 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty for conditions at the breeding...Published: Aug 12, 2009 3:08 PM Full Story
Mmm good: Tasting the best in Wayne
The delicious smell of everything from buffalo wings to pizza to barbecue filled the air Tuesday night during the annual Taste of Wayne County event held at Wayne Community College. Armed with a plate and a fan, courtesy of...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Planning Board meeting denied
Wayne County Planning Director Connie Price twice Tuesday night declined to identify the official who instructed him not to schedule community meetings to discuss zoning, as had been ordered by the county Planning Board. Board members did not press...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man dies Friday in motorcycle wreck
A man who was killed Friday night on Starcrest Drive was riding a stolen motorcycle with fraudulent registration, a Highway Patrol sergeant said today. Maurice Daniel Lawson, 33, of Starcrest Drive, was riding the motorcycle on his home street...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
'Barney' and 'Ernest T. Bass' unveil new stamps in Fremont
FREMONT -- Fremont residents welcomed visitors from one of the state's most famous "towns" Tuesday afternoon as actors posing as members of the cast of "The Andy Griffith Show" entertained at the post office. About 2 p.m., Officer Barney...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Economic recovery workshop held today
One of a series of statewide workshops sponsored by the North Carolina Office of Economic Recovery and Investment is being held this morning at Rebuilding Broken Places CDC on North William Street. "Linking Small and Historically Underutilized Businesses" is the...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
'Stay in School' rally Tuesday at St. Mark Church
The STOP the Funeral Initiative Covenant partners, friends and community leaders are inviting the Wayne County community to join their third annual NAACP "Back to School, Stay in School Rally." St. Mark Church at 700 W. Ash St. will...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Recycled goods make pop art
Macey is dressed in pink. She has accessorized with a yellow bracelet on her right arm and one on her left ankle. A red flower bead necklace hangs around her neck. She is making her own fashion statement. But you...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
I-795 corridor protection to be discussed Thursday
Protection of the proposed Interstate 795 South corridor will be discussed Thursday morning during a meeting of the Goldsboro Metropolitan Planning Organization. It will be the first of several transportation meetings of the day. All of which are open...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Man arrested for exposing himself at Berkeley Mall
A Fayetteville man was charged Tuesday by Goldsboro police with allegedly exposing himself to a woman at Berkeley Mall. Jason Maurice Williams, 31, of South Ridge Road in Fayette-ville, was seen leaving a restroom near a rear entrance of...Published: Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Triangle Spring to ship first automotive orders soon
MOUNT OLIVE -- Despite the downturn in the automotive industry, Triangle Spring, Mount Olive's newest industry, is expected to ship its first order within the next two weeks. Work began in March to retool a large portion of the...Published: Aug 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Heat wave hits Wayne County
Some of the hottest days so far this year rolled into the Carolinas this week, baking the asphalt and sending the heat index into triple digits. With highs in the upper 90s predicted again for today, and the humidity...Published: Aug 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Radio celeb's condition remains critical
Longtime Wayne County radio personality Chester Thompson remains in critical condition at Pitt Memorial Hospital after a weekend wreck, officials said today. And while friends and colleagues wait for updates on his condition and hope for the best, details about...Published: Aug 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County budget not set in stone
Wayne County's $157.6 million budget, frozen the day it went into effect, could absorb up to a half million dollars in state and/or federal cuts before forcing county officials to "tweak" its numbers. Meanwhile, state lawmakers who passed a...Published: Aug 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County manager vows to help schools
Stepping out of his role of county manager Monday night, Lee Smith made a commitment to Wayne County Board of Education to enlist an army of volunteers for the school system. A parent himself, Smith took on the mantle...Published: Aug 11, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, August 10, 2009
Get your taste buds ready for Tuesday
The annual Taste of Wayne County food festival that opens the United Way's fund-raising campaign will be held Tuesday at Wayne Community College. The event, which showcases the best restaurant fare from across the county, begins at 5:30 p.m....Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Summer sizzle
Elian Nieto, 6, kicks a volleyball at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park on Sunday afternoon. The National Weather Service is warning residents of the Carolinas that a two-day heat wave could push temperatures near triple digits today and Tuesday....Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
First to go back to school
Fourth-grade teacher Crystal Barbour, left, talks with Georgia Parnell, second from left, Hayley Jones and Harmon Kaler this morning during the first day of classes at Wayne Christian School....Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tax notices to be in the mail soon
Wayne County will mail out more than 70,000 property tax notices within the next two weeks. Meanwhile, through June 30, tax collections for last year stand at 97.18 percent, down just slightly from the previous year. "We feel like...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Radio voice in wreck
A longtime Wayne County radio personality is in critical condition this morning after a single-car crash that occurred near Rosewood over the weekend. Chester Thomspon, known for his "Ole' Time Radio Jamboree," is being treated at Pitt Memorial Hospital...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Burden has hopes for grad coach
Does Goldsboro High School have a problem with test scores and graduation rates? Absolutely. But Principal Patricia Burden refuses to give up the fight, or hope that ongoing efforts and the possibility that hiring a graduation coach will be...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro to look at housing code
Goldsboro's chief building inspector is eyeing some significant additions to the local minimum housing ordinance -- changes that will ultimately translate into more attractive neighborhoods in the area, he said. Ed Cianfarra discussed several measures with City Council members...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
MOC joins with local school districts to improve education
Mount Olive College has formed a partnership with the Wayne County Public, the Clinton City Public Schools, the Duplin County Public Schools and the Sampson County Public Schools to improve education. The Consortium for Orchestrating Regional Education, or CORE, will...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Distribution center may locate in Sampson
FAISON -- The potential for a multimillion-dollar distribution center on Interstate 40 that could create up to 1,200 jobs is driving a joint venture between the town of Faison and Sampson County officials who had been at odds over...Published: Aug 10, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Shoppers hit local stores as 'tax-free' winds down
A few dollars on a backpack. A dozen more on T-shirts and jeans. And some pocket change on loose leaf paper. This weekend's tax-free sales saved the Sanchez family -- and many others in Wayne County -- plenty of...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
StageStruck veteran actress is headed for bright lights, big city
Hailey Best's list of possibilities for her future have included everything from kindergarten teacher to a career in politics or law. But after all the exploring and all the wondering, she is back to where it all started, to a...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Mayor blasts NAACP motives
An assault on a police officer case that ended in the courts with a plea deal on July 30 is still on the mind of Goldsboro's mayor. But Al King isn't thinking about how the guilty plea vindicated his police...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Controversial arrest ends in plea deal
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story originally ran in the July 31, 2009 print edition of the Goldsboro News-Argus. A case that drew complaints from the NAACP over the actions of two Goldsboro police officers ended in a plea deal on July...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Developer pulls Rosewood project
A state agency has accomplished what a firestorm of public outcry was unable to do -- sound the death knell for a controversial low-rent housing project in the Rosewood community. "We did not get funding," Goldsboro developer John T....Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Summer work program gave students taste of adult world
Sixteen-year-old Billy Hamm was frank about his former employment prospects, and what he believes a summer work program did for him. "I never really thought that I would have a job," Hamm said to a sizable audience who had gathered...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Shortage of blood reported
The American Red Cross has issued an urgent appeal for donors with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood. These types are in critical status, which means there is about a three-day supply on the shelves, a...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Sheriff warns of scam artists posing as magazine salesmen
As a result of complaints by concerned citizens, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office has issued a public notice warning residents of scam artists operating door-to-door in the area. "United Family Circulation, DBA Legacy Sale Door-to-Door Solicitors Magazine Subscriptions: "Legacy Sale...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Price Rite Cleaners is open in Cloth Barn shopping center
Price Rite Cleaners at 2311 E. Ash St., opened in The Cloth Barn shopping center to some fanfare, including a ribbon-cutting attended by Mayor Al King. Matthew Hill, owner-operator, said so far he's happy with the response the business...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
School supplies giveaway
Brenda Lewis, left, helps Jashon and Jailyn Burns pick out backpacks while their grandmother Ernestine Lewis looks on during the first Back to School Bash School Supplies Giveaway at the Goldsboro Worship Center Saturday. More than 500 backpacks were given...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Guardian Brotherhood rides for wounded warriors
The Guardian Brotherhood first introduced itself to Goldsboro on a September morning in 2007. A group of motorcycle riders with military ties, bound together by a sense of duty to help others who have worn and still wear the...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin schools report scores
Eleven of 16 Duplin County schools achieved adequate yearly progress goals for the 2008-09 school year, the Duplin County School Board discussed Tuesday. As a county, all elementary and middle schools made AYP in reading and math, and most...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Dr. Silver recognized by ag agents
Dr. George Silver has received the 2009 Service To Agriculture Award from the North Carolina Association of County Agriculture Agents. The award was presented at the organization's annual meeting recently. Dr. Silver received the award for his years of diligently...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
School supply drives crucial
Parents struggling to stretch a dollar can be even more stressed when it comes time to pick up back to school supplies. Sometimes being able to afford pencils and paper is a hardship, says Sudie Davis, executive director of Communities...Published: Aug 9, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Friday, August 7, 2009
Staying cool when it's hot, hot, hot
Jameson Ricks, 2, plays under the sprinkler on Center Street Thursday afternoon, trying to escape the sweltering temperatures that have hovered in the 90s all this week. The city set up the sprinklers for local children. Today's highs are expected...Published: Aug 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Lightening Strike puts Duplin further behind in tax billing
Taxes might be certain, but lightning strikes are unpredictable, the Duplin County tax office learned this week. Duplin County residents will receive their tax bills about 10 days later than anticipated following a spate of technical problem at the...Published: Aug 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
27 schools get good marks on state ratings
Sixteen of the county's 32 public schools made high growth under the state's ABCs accountability model, while 27 of them made at least expected growth, according to ABC results released Thursday by the N.C. Department of Public Instruction. Also approved...Published: Aug 7, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Anderson critiques county's planning decision
Commissioner Andy Anderson Tuesday morning lambasted his fellow Wayne County board members for hasty actions taken without discussion and hinted that an unnamed few are attempting to control and manage the board. In addition, he said, there are too...Published: Aug 6, 2009 1:49 PM Full Story
How many pages is health care bill?
Two reams of paper. One thousand and eighteen pages. Twelve thousand, two hundred and sixteen lines of text. And that's not even the final version. For 51 minutes Frank Drohan listened to his printer spit out pages, and at...Published: Aug 6, 2009 1:49 PM Full Story
In their city's prayers
Andrea Schaub fought off tears as she addressed the crowd of 100-plus that gathered outside Goldsboro City Hall this morning to honor two of her comrades who died July 18 in Afghanistan. The Air Force technical sergeant did not know...Published: Aug 6, 2009 1:49 PM Full Story
Hooks wins county wheat crop contest
Northern Wayne farmer Steve Hooks was tired of finishing third place. For the past few years, Hooks has taken third in the Wayne County Wheat Yield Contest, but this year Hooks captured first place with 98.15 bushels per acre....Published: Aug 6, 2009 1:49 PM Full Story
Fugitive from N.J. apprehended in city
The U.S. Marshals Service used the help of Goldsboro and Wayne County Sheriff's Office lawmen on Wednesday morning to seize a fugitive from New Jersey, authorities said. Kaches Cuttino, 36, was wanted for attempted murder in Newark, N.J., local...Published: Aug 6, 2009 1:49 PM Full Story
Goldsboro honors fallen airmen
If you missed the service honoring fallen Air Force captains Mark "Pitbull" McDowell and Thomas "Lag" Gramith, watch it here on newsargus.com. The airmen were killed July 18 when their fighter jet went down in the Afghan desert....Published: Aug 6, 2009 12:48 PM Full Story
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Newark fugitive captured in Goldsboro
A man wanted for attempted murder and drug charges in Newark, N.J. was arrested by police today Wednesday morning, according to a release.Kaches Cuttino, 36, who is listed as one of 11 "most wanted" people by the Newark, N.J. police...Published: Aug 5, 2009 2:38 PM Full Story
City officers, citizens take bite out of crime
When Marcella Rodriguez, 23, died as the result of domestic abuse, Deborah Carter felt like she was losing a family member. Ms. Carter was manning a booth for Wayne Uplift at National Night Out, an annual gathering in Herman Park...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Commission rejects Keen rezoning plan
Wayne County commissioners with no discussion Tuesday morning voted down a rezoning request by fellow board member Steve Keen. The first reading on the request last month passed by a 6-0 vote after Keen recused himself. Tuesday's motion for...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
County OKs request for grad coach funds
Despite a tight county budget that was frozen the moment it went into effect, county commissioners Tuesday morning committed to finding $29,000 for a $58,000 pilot program aimed at improving graduation rates at Goldsboro High School. Not only did...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Cox asks county to explain its motives for control
Planning Board Chairman Chris Cox's questioning of county commissioners' motives for pursuing more control of some planning decisions Tuesday morning drew a stern rebuke from Commissioner John Bell. Bell reminded Cox that commissioners not only appoint Planning Board members,...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Three projects get OK for next steps from city
Members of the Goldsboro City Council took the next step on several local projects at their Monday meeting. They officially hired architect David Gall to work on historic Union Station, held a public hearing regarding the new Cherry Hospital...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Accident victim, 18, focused on recovery
Pam Mozingo has a new word in her vocabulary since the spring accident that paralyzed her daughter -- surreal. When she first heard it bandied about after Sept. 11, she admits she didn't fully appreciate the concept. But on May...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Horsing around
Children from the Little Bulldogs Academy in Grantham got a chance to visit the Springs Banks Stable on N.C. 111 South on Monday. From left, Hunter Whitfield, Harley Faircloth, Emma Lutz and Reagan Marshall help brush one of the horses....Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Duplin looking at solid waste department
A lingering stink over the possible misuse of county funds for solid waste work bubbled up again Monday at the Duplin County commissioners' meeting. Resident Jimmy Dixon asked the board to examine the possible misuse of $360,000 of enterprise...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Dogs have to practice, too
Just as officers do, police dogs need training -- and plenty took place on Monday morning during a routine monthly exercise for the Sheriff's Office K-9 unit. At Spring Bank Stables, the Sheriff's Office's six canine handlers and their...Published: Aug 5, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Pikeville board agrees to buy temporary town hall
A heated debate broke out between members of the Pikeville Town Board of Commissioners and community members Monday night over the possibility of a new town hall. Commissioners were considering approving moving the town hall to a temporary facility. The...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Council honors fallen air crew
For the second time in as many meetings, Goldsboro City Council members found time to honor two 4th Fighter Wing airmen who died in Afghanistan. Mayor Al King first read formal proclamations expressing the city's sadness over the loss of...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Marijuana arrests yield ties to area gang activity
In one of two seizures of small-scale marijuana growing operations last week, authorities got a reminder that gangs can play a role in drug distribution. The Sheriff's Office and its Aggressive Criminal Enforcement team served two search warrants, and...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Cooper Standard files for bankruptcy
It is expected to be "business as usual" for Goldsboro's two Cooper Standard Automotive plants as their parent company seeks to restructure its debt in federal bankruptcy court. The move could reduce the company's roughly $1.1 billion of bank...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Leaders ask city for GHS graduation coach
Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Allen called it "terrible." Family Y executive director John Richards said it was "appalling." And Wayne County Development Alliance existing industry specialist Mike Haney characterized it as "a waste of resources." Goldsboro High School's graduation rate...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC extends fall registration
The fall registration period for new and returning Wayne Community College students has been extended. College credit students can register during business hours at the main campus now through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. New students must first complete the...Published: Aug 4, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, August 3, 2009
Patient marks her 25th year of straight dialysis treatment
Emogene Williams has not missed a single dialysis treatment in 25 years. And the day she was to be celebrated for that accomplishment, she was not about to miss. The actual anniversary date was the week before, but DaVita...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
National Night Out set for this Tuesday
The annual National Night Out festival, which aims to encourage residents to "take back their streets," will feature free music, displays and children's games Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. in Herman Park. The theme of this year's event...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Move-in now complete for new county offices
For county Planning Director Connie Price and Inspections Director Steven Stroud, there is much to like about their departments' new homes in the renovated Jeffreys Building (the old Federal Building) at 134 N. John St., not the least of...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
MOC conference room named for area pastor
A conference room at Mount Olive College has been named for a Goldsboro area minister. Services were held recently to dedicate the Gary M. Bailey Conference Room, in honor of the pastor of Stoney Creek Free Will Baptist Church....Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Chamber, experts will talk health care in September
Local businesses and community members will have the opportunity to learn more about the health care debate first hand next month. The Wayne County Chamber of Commerce will present its second State of the Community program at 8 a.m. on...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials to hear rezoning request
A rezoning request by Wayne County Commissioner Steve Keen will get its second reading Tuesday morning during the commissioners regular meeting. Its approval would clear the way the way for Keen to begin development of the 70-acre tract on...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Princeton teen dies in wreck
PRINCETON -- An 18-year-old teen driving a motorcycle died after a head-on crash involving a minivan on Saturday afternoon, authorities confirmed. Tyler Dean Smith, a Princeton resident, died after the collision at Rains Mill Road near Old Cornwallis Road,...Published: Aug 3, 2009 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Legislators split along tax lines on budget
Wayne County's legislative delegation agrees that the open-ended extension of the continuing budget resolution approved Thursday was necessary to keep the state going, and they share an optimism that a budget could be ready as early as next week...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Economist: There's good, bad news as economy starts steep climb back
There might be signs that the recession is receding, a state economic expert told Wayne County business leaders this past week, but don't expect too much, too soon. "What it means for North Carolina and eastern North Caro-lina is...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
City plans public memorial to remember SJAFB air crew
Nearly two weeks after a 4th Fighter Wing air crew was lost in Afghanistan, local residents continue to mourn -- and honor -- its members. A public memorial for 336th Fighter Squadron officers Capt. Mark McDowell and Capt. Thomas...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Eighty-one percent of Wayne County students pick college
More than 80 percent of Wayne County's recent high school graduates will attend colleges in the fall, according to an exit survey released this week by the district. Of the 1,190 graduating seniors, 967, or 81.3 percent, indicated they will...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Stopping teen pregnancy before it can even start
When Kay Philips' son was a teenager, she never felt guilty about rifling through his book bag and looking for anything that could mean he was getting into dangerous activities. "It was my home, my son, and I bought that...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Duplin's pay hike attracts new crop of EMTs
More than half a dozen new recruits have signed on with Duplin County emergency medical services since county commissioners raised the pay rate for Duplin paramedics. In the weeks following the vote, which increased EMT pay by 8 percent, the...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Officers say N.C. computer changes will catch crooks
New connections between parole and probation records and police officers' computers are good for local law enforcement, Goldsboro police officials say. Changes to the computer system behind the Division of Criminal Information, known to police as "DCI," also will...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
O'Berry Foundation provides hearing aid
Jordan Wiggins suffered through a lot of ear infections when he was younger -- a common problem for children born with Down Syndrome, his mother, Jenny, says. "He went through four or five sets of tubes, probably even more,"...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Foundation offers help with health expenses
In a younger America, the milkman used to arrive in the morning with the day's dairy delivery, doctors made house calls to visit sick patients and grocery stores would pack up an order and bring fresh produce right to the...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
Last drug suspect takes plea deal in trafficking case
A cocaine trafficking case that involved three family members of a Dollard Town Road house ended in a plea deal for the last remaining defendant. Joe Nathan Spruill Jr., 32, pleaded no contest to felony level charge of maintaining...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story
New Fremont law will crack down on loiterers in town
Starting in December, there will be a new no loitering ordinance in Fremont. The law is an effort to crack down on drugs sales in the area. "It clears out the area where we have known violators of the controlled...Published: Aug 2, 2009 2:00 AM Full Story