June 2010 archives

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Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Drowning victim found at Busco

Authorities say it is possible that a Rocky Mount man who drowned Monday evening at Busco Beach became stuck after stepping into a hole filled with silt. The body of Michael Gardner, 44, was recovered shortly after 11 a.m....

Fire in truckload of fireworks sparked red, white and BOOM

A small fireworks explosion ignited in the bed of a pickup truck in Stevenson Honda's dealership parking lot off U.S. 70 Tuesday around lunchtime. Emergency medical technicians responding to the explosion said they believed the driver of the truck,...

Kitty Askins project gets $750,000 donation

The State Employees' Credit Union held up its end of the bargain Tuesday when officials handed over a $750,000 check to 3HC for the Kitty Askins Hospice Center expansion. The center, which is owned by 3HC, is in the...

Opening arguments begin in murder trial

A ballistics expert and an emergency responder testified Tuesday in Wayne County Superior Court in the trial of Brandon Lee Williams, who is accused of the 2008 murder of Silvia Benitez Morales. Mrs. Morales was found shot to death...

Drenched: Band of storms leaves mini-floods, marble sized hail

Strong wind gusts, marble-sized hail and torrential rain flooded streets and overturned a tractor-trailer in Goldsboro on Tuesday afternoon as a strong storm system passed through the county. Goldsboro received 2-3 inches of rain in about an hour, according...

Wayne County jobless rate dips for third straight month

For the third month in a row, Wayne County's unemployment rate has dropped. The county rate dropped from 8.6 percent unemployment in April to 8.4 percent unemployment in May. The rate began decreasing earlier this year when it first...

Trip gives students opportunity to see General Assembly in action

Cole Tisdale is a rising junior at Southern Wayne High School with aspirations to go to college and study business administration. But a fortuitous trip to the General Assembly last week gave him pause. "I wanted to learn about...

Public record

Stolen business sign Frances Lovetter of Valley of Hope Ministries Rehabilitation for Women on Dobbersville Road reported on Monday morning that the business' sign had been stolen, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office says. The white, 4-foot by 8-foot wooden sign...

Art camp

Summer art camper John Davis admires his finished piece of tie-dyed cloth that he made during a summer arts camp held at the Arts Council of Wayne County. During the day last week, campers worked on creating different pieces of...

Most towns closed for Fourth on July 5

Local, state and federal offices will observe Monday as the Independence Day holiday, which falls on Sunday this year. The city of Goldsboro will observe the holiday on Monday, July 5. The council meeting will be held Tuesday at...

Boys & Girls Club offers much for youth to do over summer

The Boys & Girls Club has packed the summer with activities for youth in the county, and at a very reasonable price, says Jill Oaks, outreach coordinator. "For only a $10 membership, we provide a safe, positive place to...

Wayne County Museum looking to add to Wall of Fame

The life stories of some of Wayne County's most influential men and women are on display at the Wayne County Museum, and the Wayne County Historical Association is looking to add two more local legends to the Wall of...

Booze It & Lose It campaign ongoing

The Governor's Highway Safety Program's 2010 "Booze It & Lose It: Operation Firecracker" campaign began Monday and will continue through Sunday. State and local law enforcement officers will be out in force over the Fourth of July holiday period...

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Teen dies in crash

FAISON -- A Mount Olive woman was killed Monday in a single vehicle accident outside of Faison. Ashley Cartwright, 19, was driving on N.C. 403 at approximately 1 p.m. Monday when the accident happened, investigators said. The car Miss Cartwright...

Big Band sound brings back memories of the 1940s

Barbara Hood Hatch, 79, doesn't have to rely on her imagination to picture how the second floor of the Wayne County Museum looked when it was the USO during the 1940s -- she has her memories. A teenager at...

Murder trial jury chosen

A jury was selected late Monday in the murder trial of Brandon Lee Williams, who is accused of the murder of Silvia Benitez Morales. Attorney Geoff Hulse is representing Williams, who was arrested a few months after Mrs. Morales' death...

Public record

Breaking and entering A Mount Olive man was charged with breaking into his former workplace at least five times over the course of a month after being terminated from a Goldsboro-based aerospace and defense company, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office...

Carver Alumni to reunite this week

MOUNT OLIVE -- It has been 40 years since Linda Dove Bizzell and her classmates graduated from Carver High School in Mount Olive, the last group of students to earn their diplomas from the segregation-era school. And this week, the...

Johnston County asking for water conservation

SMITHFIELD -- Due to unprecedented high water demand and temporary limitations in the Johnston County water distribution system, the Johnston county manager on Monday issued a water shortage advisory. While the advisory is in effect, customers are requested to employ...

Body of man who drowned found at Busco Beach

The body of a Rocky Mount man who apparently drowned early Monday evening at Busco Beach was recovered shortly after 11 a.m. this morning. Sheriff Carey Winders said that Michael Gardner, 44, was at the lake with his wife and...

Former Wayne hospital employee files suit, claiming HIPPA violation

A former employee of Wayne and Johnston Memorial hospitals is suing both, alleging that private information about her health, protected by federal law, was spread by employees of both institutions. Ann Marie Green Conerly eventually quit her job over...

Monday, June 28, 2010

Aid down for some county graduates

The economy did not markedly hinder scholarships for the latest high school graduating class in Wayne County -- although one school saw its aid for students going on to college decrease by more than 50 percent from 2009. The Class...

Just go farm worms ...

The Job: Worm farming The Company: The WOW! Factory The Location: Goldsboro When I was 5 I had a pet worm named Bubba. I used to play with him in the yard or put him in my pocket -- perfectly...

County adds funds to purchase more fans for senior citizens

Wayne County last week amended the county budget to provide $1,300 to help buy fans for area senior citizens after funds from other agencies to purchase fans had been expended. Eryn McAuliffe, director of the Wayne County Services on...

Man killed while he walked on highway

PIKEVILLE -- A man arguing with his family exited their vehicle on Interstate 795 early Sunday morning, where he was killed when struck by a car, authorities said. Victor Ceja-Fuentes, 19, of Antler Creek Road, died at the scene...

Tower fixed; security in place

MOUNT OLIVE -- The county has repaired its new communications tower that was damaged earlier this month when someone stole copper wire and grounding bars from the structure. "We have taken some security measures that are now in place...

Another week of heat

During a break, construction worker Celso Camey cools himself off with a chug of cold water as Oscar Gonzalez looks on at construction work being done at the new portion of Kitty Askins Hospice Center on Wayne Memorial Drive. The...

Sunday, June 27, 2010

From a recovering addict's point of view

EDITOR'S NOTE: "Tammy" is a recovering meth addict. Her name has been withheld to protect her privacy as she continues to battle her addiction in treatment. After 72 hours with no sleep, her house was spotlessly clean, the fact that...

Principal changes set for 2010-11

Several administrative changes in the district have been announced, including shifts for principals at six schools and the naming of seven new assistant principals. Changes will be effective July 1 for principals and Aug. 18 for assistant principals. All assignments...

WAGES to host career fair

Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency, Inc., WAGES, is having a Career Fair at the Herman Park Center on Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. All job seekers are welcome to come and meet prospective employers for networking and...

Meth: An old threat takes on new power

In 2008, Wayne County reported three methamphetamine lab raids. A year later, that number jumped to 24, earning this county the distinction of being No. 2 in the state for meth raids -- and the county with the largest increase...

Dam repairs forced fish kill

The hundreds of dead fish at Rudy Hill Dam are the result of orders from the state Department of Environment and Natural Resources' Division of Land Resources to drain the pond and repair the dam. "We had to drain...

Hamming it up

Roger Smith's small enclosed trailer and Albert Lioen's tent were separated by less than 100 feet, but the methods they were using to communicate with the world were separated by almost 160 years. Smith was transmitting by Morse Code,...

Wayne Education Network introduces website

A website was introduced last week that will provide access to the wide array of educational programs available in the community -- targeting not only local residents and families, but those anticipating a move to Wayne County. It is just...

Pikeville approves budget

PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville Board of Commissioners approved its 2010-11 budget Tuesday night, a spending plan that does not increase property taxes nor utility rates for residents. The $2.17 million budget is 18 percent less than the current budget. Town...

Pikeville celebrates an early Fourth of July in the park

PIKEVILLE -- The two massive fans in the cooking area behind the Blended Fellowship Church booth were providing little relief from the hot and muggy Saturday morning air, forcing church member Jack Sasser to find an inventive way to...

Troopers grad week patrols a success

A campaign to reduce traffic accidents involving teenage drivers during graduation week proved a success, say troopers with the state Highway Patrol. On orders from Gov. Beverly Perdue, the patrol vowed to crack down on speeding, drunken driving and...

Suspect arrested in set of break-ins

Woodrow Mitnaul III, 28, of Rosewood Road, has been arrested in connection with three breaking and entering incidents earlier this spring in the Rosewood area. Mitnaul was arrested following an investigation by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Investig-ation is...

Friday, June 25, 2010

Poultry company: Site pick is coming

Sanderson Farms is searching for up to 600 acres north of Goldsboro on which to build a $94 million chicken deboning facility that would employ up to 1,100 people. Construction could begin next March if the land can be...

Relay revisited: $567,197

More than 1,800 Wayne County Relay for Life participants joined the fight against cancer this year and raised $567,197 for the American Cancer Society. The county Relay committee announced the grand total and the top fundraising teams Thursday at the...

Groovin' on a sunny afternoon

Jessica Kornegay dances with her son Rusty, 4, while the Band of Oz plays at the  Center Street Jam in Goldsboro Thursday. The free music festival sponsored by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. will continue July 8 with the band...

Fremont OKs spending plan

FREMONT -- The Fremont Board of Aldermen approved its 2010-11 budget Tuesday by a 4-3 margin. Board members Leon Mooring, W.T. Smith and Al Lewis voted to approve the budget and Leroy Ruffin, Annie Lewis and Harold Cuddington voted...

Fast-food manager found dead in his car

LaGRANGE -- The manager of the Bojangles restaurant on U.S. 70 in LaGrange was found shot to death early today by deputies with the Lenoir County Sheriff's Department. Lenoir County Sheriff Billy Smith said this morning that the initial...

County now looking for new 911 director

Wayne County officials are looking for a new 911 emergency communications director. Randy Weiss, a retired Air Force master sergeant who held the job for less than six months, resigned earlier this month. He replaced Delbert Edwards, who resigned...

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Beetle busters

There is a new type of battle going on at the softball fields at Wayne Community College. Call it wasps vs. beetles -- literally. The softball field at Wayne Community College is temporarily closed while researchers identify a strain of...

Sinkhole won't be fixed until September

Repairs to a huge pothole on Spence Avenue near its intersection with Elm Street won't begin until late July or early August, city officials say, and likely won't be finished until September. Although more than three months have passed...

Will plant locate down the highway?

Wayne County officials say rumors are unfounded that Mississippi-based Sanderson Farms has reached a final decision on building a $94 million chicken deboning facility in the county -- a plant that could employ up to 1,100 people. "That is...

Lawyer pleads guilty to fraud

RALEIGH -- The United States Attorney's Office announced this week that William Orander III, 40, of Goldsboro pleaded guilty in federal court to committing mail, wire and bank fraud. Orander, who already had his law license revoked by the...

Quick chicken plant facts

What: A Wayne County Sanderson plant with a feed mill, hatchery and processing plant and wastewater treatment facility. It could employ about 1,100 people, require about 150 contract growers, and be equipped to process and sell 8.9 million pounds of...

Local man wants governor to grant him pardon for crime

Thomas E. Parker doesn't have an immaculate criminal record. But there is one crime he didn't do, he maintains -- rob the now-defunct Merritt Supermarket on Royall Avenue in January 1999. A federal judge, Terrence W. Boyle, agreed in an...

Foreign students need homes

Host families are still being sought for foreign students who will be arriving soon for a visit to eastern North Carolina. Homes are still needed for two Spanish students, arriving on June 30, and four French students, arriving July 10....

Resident foils break-in

A homeowner foiled a break-in at home Monday, with the intruder winding up arrested by Goldsboro police. A resident of East Pine Street reportedly interrupted an attempted breaking and entering at his property Monday at about 10:30 a.m. and called...

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Baddour elected president of N.C. Advocates for Justice

Philip A. Baddour Jr., a partner at Baddour, Parker & Hine, PC, has been elected president of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, a statewide association of attorneys that strives to protect the rights of all North Carolinians in...

WCC prepares to open fall registration period

New and returning students at Wayne Community College can sign up for fall courses on the main campus on the following dates -- July 14, 15, 20 and Aug. 18, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; July 19, 1-7 p.m.; and Aug....

8-year-old dies after being hit by vehicle

BEAULAVILLE -- A child was struck by a car and killed Saturday on Highway 41 in Beaulaville, according to the state Highway Patrol reports. Malachi Josiah Davis, 8, ran into the road in front of his home at 1459...

Scouts honor benefactor

Longtime Scout supporter Dick Auger has a new shelter named in his honor at Camp Tuscarora. In recognition of Auger's many years of service to the program, a group of the Friends of Scouting decided to build a shelter...

Dance will pay tribute to local USO

The music and dances of a classic era return to the Wayne County Museum at the USO Tribute Dance this Saturday at 7 p.m. The museum on William Street, once used as a USO building, will be swinging to...

Outlaw riders a threat to region

No one should not be misled by romanticized images of outlaw motorcycle gang members, an authority on the groups told members of the law enforcement community Tuesday. They are dangerous and violent criminals who bring nothing positive to a...

It will be Marshall vs. Burr

Elaine Marshall carried Wayne County en route to her victory over Cal Cunningham for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate on Tuesday. The runoff election was held because Ms. Marshall, the North Carolina secretary of state, did not win...

Internet parlors -- endangered species?

In the wake of the state Senate approving a ban on Internet parlors, local officials and residents are split on what they would like to see happen when the House votes on the issue. The legislation, which was approved...

County lawman added to national memorial

The last time a Wayne County officer died in the line of duty was 2002, but a more historical figure was the last person to be added to the National Law Enforcement Memorial this year in Washington, D.C. Sheriff...

Public record

Armed robbery Christy Renee Lopez, 32, Wharton Lane, told Goldsboro police she was robbed at gunpoint in the parking lot of a convenience store on N.C. 111 South. Taken were $280 in cash, $200 worth of jewelry and a...

Summertime in the city

Damien Durham lowers his head to let water from the sprinkler at Goldsboro's Cornerstone Commons drip down his face as other children play during Sprinkler Day last Thursday. Every Thursday during the summer from 3 to 4 p.m. at Cornerstone...

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Pikeville will kick off 4th of July celebrations

The Pikeville Lions Club and residents are gearing up for the town's Fourth of July celebration Saturday. The 13th annual gathering, which is hosted by the Pikeville Lions Club, starts at 10 a.m. Saturday and caps off with a fireworks...

Mount Olive OKs budget, looks at 'parlors'

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Mount Olive Town Board of Commissioners approved a $5.586 million budget for 2010-2011 Monday night following a brief public hearing. The budget retains the current tax rate of 59 cents per $100 worth of property,...

No new taxes for Duplin, but no raises for workers either

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Commissioners approved the county's 2010-11 budget Monday -- without a proposed 2 percent raise for full and part-time county employees. The budget initially contained the across-the-board increase, but a motion made by Commissioner...

Public record

Breaking and entering arrest As a result of an investigation by Wayne County Sheriff's Office, David Earl Poe, 37, of Rougemont and Michael Edward Laswell, 44, of Bahama were charged with attempted breaking and entering and possession of burglary tools....

Habitat cuts ribbons on 3 homes for local families

Anita Hall raised her hands to the sky in praise, the keys to her family's new house dangling from her fingers. "I used to think I didn't deserve anything good," the mother of two daughters said to the crowd of...

Monday, June 21, 2010

Time to milk the goats ...

The Job: Goat cheese farmer The Company: Holly Grove Farms, Inc. The Location: Mount Olive It's been brought to my attention that my aim is off, courtesy of one very uncomfortable goat. I started my shift at Holly Grove Farms...

Voters pick Democrat candidate tomorrow

Polls will open at 6:30 a.m. and close at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday for the second Democratic Senate primary between Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. The contest between Ms. Marshall and Cunningham is the only one on the ballot and...

Graduation coach deemed 'success'

All of the 28 at-risk Goldsboro High School seniors who worked with the school's new graduation coach received their diplomas during graduation ceremonies at the school. Just how those figures will affect the school's graduation rate remains to be...

Let the sun shine

Vickey Sanderson arranges bouquets of flowers for sale at the Mini Mobile Farmers Market on Herman Street. The market is open every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. It is sponsored by the city of Goldsboro and the Wayne...

Woman posts bail with stolen credit card

Goldsboro authorities are looking for a Fremont couple who allegedly conspired to use stolen credit cards to buy a man's way out of the county jail, a sergeant reported. Detective Sgt. Thomas Flores said Christie Lynn Ruffin, 28, wife of...

Mt. Olive Pickle president honored for business practices, service

MOUNT OLIVE -- Bill Bryan, the president of Mt. Olive Pickle Co., was honored last week with a national award that recognizes people and organizations that display ethical leadership in their communities. Bryan received the Being a Difference Award...

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Plowing the old-fashioned way

Spot Rouse, of Seven Springs, uses a team of Percheron working horses to break up the ground during the Work Horse and Mule Plow Day held on his farm just west of Seven Springs on N.C. 55. The event is...

Education council examines test scores

More scores are in -- and Wayne County students are improving their math and reading performance, said the chief of a Wayne County Chamber of Commerce committee taking a look at schools and scores. But that does not mean...

911th records successful first year; command change

Two years after standing up, the 911th Air Refueling Squadron has proven its mission a success, at least in the mind of outgoing commander Lt. Col. Bill Uptmor. "Absolutely it has been a phenomenal success," Uptmor said. The attachment...

Paul named president of MOC alumni association

MOUNT OLIVE -- Gregg Paul of Midlothian, Va., formerly from Belhaven, is president of the Mount Olive College Alumni Association where he served for a number of years on the Alumni Board. "Gregg brings energy, enthusiasm, fresh ideas, valued...

County gets set for Laurean trial

People with business at the Wayne County Courthouse will need to allow for even more time than normal for traffic, parking and security beginning in August when the first-degree murder trial of former Marine Cesar Laurean gets under way....

Teacher invited to take part in special study on Lincoln

Ann Price, a second-grade teacher at Tommy's Road Elementary School, will be participating in the Horace Mann-Abraham Lincoln Fellowship Program that gives 50 teachers from across the country the opportunity to learn more about the 16th president and incorporate the...

Surrounded by family, saying 'I do'

Most people would never think to have their weddings where they work -- but most people don't love their work as much as Nancy Gendreau does. Nancy married her boyfriend of five months, Johnny Davis, Thursday at the Wayne...

Helping refill the bank

George Worrell jokes with American Red Cross Blood Drive site supervisor Liz Miller as he gives blood in the mobile blood drive van in front of Lowe's in Goldsboro. The local blood supply is low right now because many people...

New Medigap updates going into effect in June

Medigap, also known as Medicare supplement, coverage is undergoing some changes. Medigap policies are private insurance policies sold by insurance companies through licensed agents. Beginning January 1992, Medigap policies became standardized, and there are no differences in the plans...

Man accused of rape pleads to lesser charge

A Mount Olive man accused of raping a 20-year-old at her Spence Avenue Apartment complex has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. Shane Martin Berens, 24, of O'Berry Road, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual battery, reduced from a charge...

Union Station update, hearings on agenda

The Goldsboro City Council members will hear an update on the Union Station project during a work session prior to their meeting Monday night. The council will meet at 7 p.m. in its chambers at City Hall on Center...

Schools choose their individual teachers of the year

Thirty-one teachers have been selected to represent their respective schools as Teachers of the Year for 2010-2011, officials announced. Educators in Wayne County Public Schools will vie for the districtwide honor, which will be announced at the start of...

School board could see several new faces this fall

By year's end, the Board of Education could have a whole new look. With three members' names on the November ballot and two others departing, the bulk of the board could be new faces. Board member Dave Thomas announced...

Teens talk about abstinence in Health Department essay contest

The Health Department's annual abstinence essay contest may have drawn fewer submissions this year, but the message is still getting out there, said Carolyn King, health education supervisor. "I do get the opportunity to meet students who talk to...

Friday, June 18, 2010

Smithfield plans July Fourth celebration

SMITHFIELD -- The Downtown Smithfield Development Corp. and the Smithfield Parks and Recreation Dept. will sponsor the city's annual "Friends of the 4th" fireworks celebration at the Historical Smithfield Town Commons on Front Street on Monday, July 5. "With the...

Kids choir auditions Saturday at Wayne County Public Library

Children ages 6-17 who wish to participate in a community choir sponsored by the Goldsboro chapter of Continental Societies are invited to audition Saturday, June 19, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Wayne County Public Library on Ash...

Free HIV, syphilis tests today at Wayne County Health Department

A public health awareness campaign to encourage people to get tested for HIV and sexually transmitted diseaseswill be offering free HIV and syphilis tests today from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Wayne County Health Department. The program, called "Get...

Bomb squad detonates 'suspicious materials'

The State Bureau of Investigation's bomb squad performed controlled detonations of at least four explosives after a search of a man's home on East Holly Street on Thursday afternoon. The explosives involved appeared to be "pipe bombs," and were...

Emergency plan heads to state, FEMA

A brief Tuesday morning public hearing on the county's revised Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan failed to attract any attention other than a few questions and comments by county commissioners. Commissioners approved submitting the plan to the state and to...

Cherry LPN hurt during encounter with patient

A nurse at Cherry Hospital had to be hospitalized at Wayne Memorial Hospital for injuries received Wednesday, state officials said this morning. According to the public affairs office of the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services, a patient...

Group setting rules for picking board member

Recommendations for a replacement for retiring District 2 school board member Shirley Sims will be considered by the Wayne County Board of Commissioners when they meet in special session July 23. The commissioners' meeting will begin at 9 a.m....

Small businesses honored for their work in county

Small businesses were honored Thursday night at the Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours event at the Country Inn and Suites. The Wayne County Small Business of the Year Awards are sponsored by the Small Business Center at Wayne Community...

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Meals on Wheels adds route in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- A new Meals on Wheels route has been added in Mount Olive, through $25,000 in United Way funding. This will be the third route for that area, but fulfills a long-time need for services in that...

Hollerin' Contest to be Saturday

SPIVEY'S CORNER -- The 42nd Annual National Hollerin' Contest will be held on June 19 at the Spivey's Corner Volunteer Fire Department at 8200 Newton Grove Highway in Dunn. Events start at 11 a.m. and admission is $5. Events...

Health board OKs septic fee increase

The Board of Health on Wednesday approved a $50 increase in the cost for a septic system permit -- from $200 to $250. At the May meeting, the board had voted down a proposal to raise the fee to...

County will eye cluster builds

Cluster subdivisions that have been permitted in Wayne County for only four years are going to get another look even though there has been only one such development proposed during that time. A cluster subdivision allows developers to build...

Auto parts store plans to come to Goldsboro

Another auto parts store is making plans to come to Goldsboro. O'Reilly Auto Parts will take the place of the former Carter Christian Academy located at 2400 E. Ash St. The city approved the demolition permit for the site on...

Courthouse video system will cut prisoner movement

An inmate recently attempted to overpower a bailiff who was escorting him from the Wayne County Jail to the courthouse. The bailiff was able to subdue the inmate, and no one was injured. County officials hope incidents like that...

Lion talk

Skylar Ratliff shows Naomi Dunn her best fierce lion look while Dunn uses an umbrella as her pretend turtle shell during Stage Struck Storytellers hour. The weeklong program, which is in its third year, lets children use their imaginations and...

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Southern Wayne High graduates turn tassels at commencement

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mary Hussey wasn't about to let a little thing like recovering from a broken ankle keep her from watching her grandson and Southern Wayne High School senior, Myron Roberts, graduate Tuesday night. She slowly made her...

Suspect charged in murder

Goldsboro police have arrested a suspect in a New Year's Day murder outside an East Wilson Street home. Andre Devon Weeks, 26, of Evergreen Avenue, is being held without bond in the Wayne County Jail. Police Sgt. Chad Calloway...

AF chiefs: Cuts will not keep America prepared

The former Air Force chief of staff and the former secretary of the Air Force say decisions made in Washington, D.C., regarding equipment and personnel could have serious repercussions on the nation's ability to remain strong in the face of...

Work tougher to find for grads, students this year

Rebecca Sewell recently graduated from Wayne Community College's medical assisting program. She's sent applications to several places, but hasn't heard back yet about a full-time job. In the meantime, she has found a place to sharpen her skills. "I have...

Commissioners approve county budget

Wayne County Commissioners unanimously approved a $156 million budget for 2010-11 on Tuesday. The budget keeps the tax rate at 76.4 cents per $100 worth of property. Property and unrestricted sales taxes will account for $63.421 million of the...

Fans available to seniors

Wayne County Services on Aging has received funding from Progress Energy and the Eastern Carolina Council Area Agency on Aging to purchase fans for Wayne County Senior Citizens. Fans will be distributed to persons aged 60 or older or...

Schools to operate on flex schedule

Wayne County Public Schools returns this week to its annual summer flex schedule. Employees will operate under a 10-hour-day, four-day workweek schedule, with offices being closed on Fridays. Administrative offices along with the child nutrition and exceptional children's departments...

County accepting city property at library and airport sites

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday accepted property from the city of Goldsboro that will clear the way for the county to be sole owner and operator of the county airport and library. Commissioners also agreed to...

Fremont board delays vote on 2010-11 budget

The Fremont Board of Aldermen decided to wait until Tuesday to vote on the 2010-11 budget, which goes into effect July 1. A few town residents spoke at Tuesday's meeting about the $3.48 million budget, which calls for a...

Crowds come for annual ice cream social and pet parade

It was a classic summer scene Tuesday evening as children, dogs and adults all gathered at the end of Center Street, where a large sprinkler hooked up to a fire hydrant sprayed water down on everyone, much to the...

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

A final tribute

Boy Scout Trey Owens holds the U.S. flag as he and his fellow Troop 8  Scouts bow their heads in prayer during the flag retirement ceremony at New Hope United Methodist Church on Monday evening. Monday was national Flag Day...

Helping students find money for college

Dr. Jerrelle Jones had 30 years' experience as a licensed clinical social worker and provided supervision to community group home professionals. She is also a licensed evangelist. But these days her mission field is in helping students obtain financial aid...

AF chiefs: Pate kept SJAFB in Wayne

They came to Goldsboro for an evening of fellowship, the nation's 21st Secretary of the Air Force and 18th Air Force Chief of Staff -- to share a few laughs and drinks with a man they know both as a...

County leaders concerned about state's idea to change lottery funds use policy

A provision in both the state House and Senate budget proposals would allow millions of dollars in lottery money to be diverted from school districts' capital funds to the state Department of Public Instruction to maintain teaching positions and...

Cherry tech fired over restraint technique

A health care technician at Cherry Hospital was fired earlier this month for placing a pillow over the face of a patient strapped in restraints. The technician, Kevin Dunn, had been employed at Cherry for less than two years....

District 2 search begins Thursday

The committee that will recommend a replacement for District 2 school board member Shirley Sims will hold an organizational meeting Thursday at 10 a.m. in Room 111 at the Jeffreys building, 134 N. John St. The meeting is open...

Monday, June 14, 2010

Program helps make homes weatherproof, saves on utility bills

Lynn Howard didn't realize it, but she was practically throwing money out the window. At one point, her monthly utility bills were as high as $400, consuming almost 40 percent of her fixed income. Since suffering a head injury...

Plumbing detail

The Job: Plumber The Company: Keen Plumbing The Location: Wayne County Most of the time I can tell how a job is going to go based on the questions they ask me when I arrive. I've been asked if I...

Goodbye, Mrs. Faison

When Tommy's Road Elementary School first opened in the fall of 2000, its initial role was to alleviate overcrowding at the northern and eastern schools. June 30 will mark more than the milestone first decade, as its principal from the...

County will talk budget, zoning

Residents with questions or comments about the county's $156 million 2010-11 budget proposal will have the chance to speak during a 9:15 a.m. public hearing Tuesday before county commissioners. Commissioners will be briefed on the agenda at 8 a.m....

Public record

Thefts *Lafayett Hines of Snow Hill reported to Goldsboro police that several items were taken from his motel room on U.S. 70, including a portable CD player, medications and $153 in cash. *Moses Mack Perry reported to Goldsboro police...

Sheriff: Calypso won't lose protection

CALYPSO -- A tight budget year sent Duplin County financial staff scrambling to find places to cut, and the Sheriff's Office substation in Calypso was one item unfunded in the proposed 2010-11 budget. The town of Calypso and the Duplin...

Convenience site expanded

The Wayne County Solid Waste Department Hood Swamp convenience site on West Hill Drive (off of Highway 13) has been expanded to take the usual refuse as well as to provide additional containers for household scrap metal items, furniture...

N.C. Community Federal Credit Union raising funds for Hope for Warriors program

The North Carolina Community Federal Credit Union, in collaboration with other credit unions in North and South Carolina, is working to raise funds to benefit Hope for Warriors, a grassroots non-profit organization that provides support to military members recovering...

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Scout leads Little River cleanup

The Little River is running cleaner today after 15-year-old Boy Scout Casey Wood spearheaded a project last month to clean up a six-mile stretch from Capps Bridge Road to the bridge on N.C. 581. Wood said he came up...

Gators graduate with cheers, tears

MOUNT OLIVE -- Melanique DeVeaux's senior project was a film starring her friend, Dontay Boseman, a step toward her dream of someday becoming a filmmaker. Miss DeVeaux was one of 133 graduates in the Saturday commencement ceremony for Spring Creek...

Tiny fighter

Weldon Williford takes his daughter's hands. "Patty cake, patty cake, baker's man," he says, clapping along with the 2-year-old. "Bake me a cake as fast as you can." The little girl's blue eyes light up and she gives her...

New employment office coming to hotel corner

The Wayne County branch of the Employment Security Commission is planning on growing and moving in the months ahead -- and will do so at a site where a storm-decimated hotel once stood. Branch manager Bill Pate said construction...

Very few ballots cast for Senate runoff contest

As of Friday afternoon, 107 one-stop ballots had been cast in advance of the June 22 second Democratic primary between U.S. Senate hopefuls Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. One-stop voting, which got under way June 3, will continue at...

Eagles fly from the nest into the adult world

It was a sea of purple that flooded Rosewood High School football field Friday night as more than 120 students crossed over from high school seniors to graduates. Principal Dean Sauls briefly spoke to the Class of 2010 before its...

Warriors welcome next step in life

Saturday marked the day students at Eastern Wayne High School had awaited for 345,600 minutes, valedictorian Warner Underwood said. "Those minutes were quickly filled with the worry of where to sit in the cafeteria on the first day, the fun...

Police look for suspect in shooting

Police now have a suspect in a shooting that a police spokesman describes as a "senseless argument" that escalated into homicide. Andre Devon Weeks, 26, of Ever-green Avenue has an alleged violent past -- he was indicted just days...

Fire taxes stay steady for most this year

Residents in the Elroy Fire District will see a 1.5-cent increase in their fire tax bill should the county budget be approved as submitted. It is the only one of the 30 fire districts serving Wayne County that will...

Cougars proud of Class of 2010s success, future prospects

Goldsboro High School's 123 graduates walked onto the football field Friday night as seniors and walked off it ready to conquer their next challenges as adults. Principal of curriculum Patricia Burden welcomed parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles...

Three face charges for illegal bail bond work

A growing problem with unlicensed bail bondsmen operating illegally in North Carolina hit home this week, with three people arrested for the offense on Thursday. Jamie Rebecca Taylor, 34, of Linen Lane, is a licensed bail bondsman. Her husband,...

Type O negative blood supply critically low

Blood type 0 negative has dropped to critically low levels. Red Cross officials said 0 negative is always in high demand because it can be transfused to patients with any blood type, especially in emergency situations. "While all blood...

Falcons class of 2010 soars away

The students and staff at Charles B. Aycock High School are a family, principal Earl Moore told the Class of 2010 -- a class that is "the perfect 10," he said. And although the Falcon family was missing a member...

Perdue reassures business owners

KENANSVILLE -- Gov. Beverly Perdue visited James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville Friday to meet with and to discuss the needs of small business owners in the area. She also discussed legislation brewing in the state House aimed at...

Friday, June 11, 2010

Two members added to committee

Two more people have been named to the committee that will recommend a replacement for District 2 school board member Shirley Sims in an apparent effort to blunt criticisms the committee inadequately represents district residents. Until Thursday, the only...

Jamming on Center Street

People packed the Center Street Jam Thursday, waiting in line to get a cold drink to cool off from the heat in downtown Goldsboro. The Craig Woolard Band highlighted the event, which was sponsored by the Goldsboro News-Argus and the...

WCC gets $20,000 for library materials

Wayne Community College has been awarded nearly $20,000 in federal funds to enhance its library collection, officials announced Thursday. Secretary Linda Carlisle of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources visited the campus to make the announcement, which reflects $4.9 million...

Syphilis testing clinics planned in June

As syphilis cases continue to climb in Wayne County, the Health Department is broadening its efforts -- starting with a mass testing mid-month and canvassing neighborhoods to raise awareness of the epidemic situation. "Unfortunately, we've seen over 60 cases (of...

Eureka takes first step in paying sewer debt

The town of Eureka has taken a step toward paying off its sewer debt to the town of Fremont. Fremont handles the sewage treatment for Eureka and sends the town a bill each month. But Eureka doesn't always pay the...

Public record

Shootings *A South Andrews Street man was shot in the leg in a parking lot in the 900 block of South Slocumb Street, Goldsboro police said. Lesean Dingle, 30, suffered internal injuries from the wound, police said, and was transported...

County children, and teachers, end year

Linda Pate, a third-grade teacher at Northeast Elementary  School, hugs her student Alana Rising, as fellow student Vanessa Lazaro looks on as students are dismissed for the last day of school. After 30 years working as a teacher including 12...

Man dies after car slips off jack

A Goldsboro man was crushed to death while working underneath his car at his home on Riverbend Road earlier this week. The accident that killed Michael Schuch happened Tuesday, a member of his family said. Schuch, 34, had gone...

Ready, set, graduate

Senior Class adviser Sederis Whitfield directs the 291 Charles B. Aycock High School seniors to their seats during graduation practice Thursday. Aycock seniors are graduating Saturday at 10 a.m. Goldsboro and Rosewood high schools will honor their graduates tonight. Other...

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Helicopter flight finds marijuana plant crop

FREMONT -- A helicopter patrol by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office turned up a crop of 25 marijuana plants near Fremont on land off Davis Mill Road Wednesday afternoon. Lt. Chris Worth of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said...

Cornhuskers

Katlyn Thornton and her sister Karen prepare fresh sweet corn for canning and freezing Wednesday afternoon on their farm on Crowfoot Road in the Grantham community. The harvest season for many home-grown vegetables has begun. For people without gardens, vegetable...

Pikeville residents facing higher bills

Starting July 1 Pikeville residents will see a slightly higher electric bill. In response to a rate increase from ElectriCities, the Pikeville Board of Commissioners voted in January to increase the electric rate 7 percent beginning in July. Currently...

Planning board OKs salvage expansion

The Wayne County Planning Board on Tuesday approved a site plan for expansion of Young's Auto Salvage on U.S. 117 Alt. South across from the Dudley Post Office. County commissioners last month rezoned the property from residential-agriculture to heavy...

Students can still get lunch over summer

Students who participate in the county schools' free and reduced lunch programs will not go hungry during summer vacation. The state's Summer Food Service Program will operate at six locations in Wayne County during the break, providing nutritious snacks and...

Greenwood parents upset over school bus discipline

Greenwood Middle School parents are still searching for answers today after they said about 15 students were held on a hot bus -- unknown to them and apparently to other school officials -- Wednesday afternoon by the driver. Tami...

Site would link military families to support options

RALEIGH -- In a matter of a few clicks, those left behind when a loved one heads to war would have support -- at least, that is the goal of the "Carolina Helping Heroes" program recently launched by the state's...

Thieves swipe copper from tower

MOUNT OLIVE -- The county's emergency communications radio system suffered a setback recently when vandals removed copper grounding wire from the newly completed tower in Mount Olive. An unknown suspect or suspects scaled a six-foot fence topped with barbed wire...

Red Cross blood drive schedule for June

Blood donations historically decline during the summer months due to donors taking vacation and summer activities. But the demand for blood often increases due to more people traveling on the roads and people opting for elective surgeries during the summer...

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Hospital gets OK to work on ER

Wayne Memorial Hospital has received the go-ahead from the state to expand its emergency department. Hospital president William Paugh said Tuesday that the state Division of Health Service Regulation confirmed the hospital's certificate of need, giving it the green...

Board rejects development in restricted zone

The developer of a proposed 70-lot cluster subdivision in a restricted zone north of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base has pulled the project from consideration, but county officials remain fearful that similar projects could send the wrong signals to...

Bank robbery suspect leads chief on chase

FREMONT -- A suspect accused of robbing The Heritage Bank in Fremont this morning not long after it opened was captured and taken into custody within minutes by the Fremont police and Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies. Fremont police...

WCPS seniors prepare to turn their tassels this weekend

Graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2010 in Wayne County Public Schools will begin this weekend, with 1,189 seniors receiving diplomas from the six traditional high schools. Another 16 students have already graduated last month, from the district's seventh school,...

Public record

Shot in home A North Carolina Street woman reported seeing a man with a handgun in her front yard on Monday afternoon, then went into the house to call police -- prompting the stranger to shoot her in the buttocks...

Principal: Alternative school shift worked well

Alternative schools in Wayne County have been around since 1993, when Belfast Academy was opened, followed in 1997 by Southern Academy in Mount Olive. Both catered to students in grades 6 through 12 and were designed to be small learning...

Duplin County to partner with Wallace

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County will be a "silent partner" in a contract between the Wallace Committee of 100 and Wilmington Industrial Development Inc. The Wallace 100 Committee, dedicated to supporting development in the county, is contracting with the Wilmington-region...

Learning to cook

Professional caterer and cooking instructor Patricia Artis welcomes people to "The Art of Cooking" course offered by Wayne Community College Continuing Education community services program. The course will focus on American cuisine and will teach people how to prepare a...

Duplin Correctional Facility evacuated because of gas leak

A gas leak at the Duplin Correctional Facility outside of Kenansville caused a temporary evacuation Monday. An administration building located outside of the jail's fence was evacuated for about two hours while maintenance workers shut off the gas and...

Suspect arrested in Fremont bank robbery

FREMONT -- A suspect accused of robbing The Heritage Bank in Fremont this morning not long after it opened was captured and taken into custody within minutes by the Fremont police and Wayne County Sheriff's Office deputies. Fremont police...

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Seven Springs Library will close its doors after 40 years

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Angie Johnson was surprised when she found out the Seven Springs library branch her family has been coming to for years will close at the end of this month. "I've always been coming in here," she said...

Duplin County's spending plan includes employee raises

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County property tax rate will remain at 69 cents per $100 valuation, and many services once on the chopping block are funded in the 2010-11 proposed budget, residents learned Monday night at a county public hearing....

Pikeville officials give $1,000 back to local VFD

PIKEVILLE -- Members of the Pikeville-Pleasant Grove Volunteer Fire Department questioned the Pikeville Board of Commissioners on Tuesday as to why the town planned to cut its funding from $29,000 to $27,000. Chief Ken Jones said the department "went...

Schools add vocational academies

Wayne County Public Schools will add three new vocational academies at high schools in the fall -- in drafting, machining and transportation. The Board of Education voted Monday night to enter into a memorandum of agreement with Wayne Community...

Council approves budget with two fee hikes

After months of debate, the Goldsboro City Council, at last, adopted the latest version of City Manager Joe Huffman's recommended 2010-11 budget Monday evening. But the plan looked far different from when the board first reviewed it. There will be...

In it together, always

As Patrick Doherty fields a question about how his wife, Dee Dee, motivates him, you can tell they are in it together, the 4th Fighter Wing commander and his first lady. And by the time he finishes, she is looking...

Monday, June 7, 2010

Dr. Patrick Sasser dies after being hit by baseball

Longtime Goldsboro physician Dr. Patrick Sasser, 80, died Saturday as a result of head injuries sustained after an accident at a baseball game at the Boys and Girls Club on Tuesday. His wife, Patricia Sasser, said they were at the...

WAGES sets career fair for June 30

Employers and employees are invited to attend the upcoming WAGES Career Fair on June 30. The fair, which is from noon to 3 p.m. at Herman Park Center, is geared toward anyone looking for a job, looking to hire or...

Workin' It - Artists, ceramics and bubbles

The Job: Pottery teacher The Company: KeepSakes Pottery Playhouse The Location: Goldsboro If every day was like my day at KeepSakes Pottery Playhouse, I probably would never leave work. It involved bubbles, popsicles and toddlers, basically my three favorite things....

Cheaper gas might boost summer travel

With gas prices dropping in recent weeks, travel experts are saying they expect more people on the roads this summer. But many Wayne County residents still recall the high prices of recent years and aren't ready to give up...

Mt. Olive Pickle unveils new jar labels

MOUNT OLIVE -- A famous Mount Olive icon is significantly changing its appearance for the first time in more than 40 years. Mt. Olive Pickle Co. products are hitting store shelves with new labels this summer as the company phases...

Miss Goldsboro to show off wardrobe

Miss Goldsboro 2010 Ashlee Perkinson will hold her wardrobe showing from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Herman Park Center and, for the first time, the public is invited. She will be competing in the Miss North Carolina competition in...

Correction

A story in Sunday's News-Argus about student housing at Mount Olive College incorrectly said the college will work with the Sleep Inn to accommodate students. The college has arranged to provide rooms for students at the Southern Belle Motel....

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Pikeville firefighters open their new station

PIKEVILLE -- With sirens blaring and lights activated, the Pikeville Pleasant Grove fire engines pulled into their new bay Saturday morning. The engines were one of the last things to be moved from the former fire department to the...

Patrol: Speeders will get tickets

The state Highway Patrol will be out in force in Wayne and surrounding counties this week -- with a warning to the driving public. As thousands of students finish up classes and many of them graduate and make plans...

A robe passes from one Jones to another

Almost from the moment the late District Court Judge Arnold Jones took the bench to begin his career, he had a shadow -- his son, Arnold Jones II. "My daddy was elected as District Court judge when I was...

Pikeville police donate bikes to local children

Pikeville police are trying to make sure children in town have a set of wheels this summer. Police Chief Pascal Tucker said the police department is accepting donated bikes, in any condition. "Even if the bikes aren't good to go,...

Born learning

Envi Ford, 3, plays connect four at the Boys and Girls Club booth Saturday at the fifth annual Born Learning Children's Festival was held at Herman Park. The festival was attended by more than 2,000 people with 40 booths that...

Comrades after arms

His eyes focused on an F-15E Strike Eagle climbing into the clouds, Nguyen Hong My bent back his fingers and tilted his arm -- using his hand to mimic the aircraft's every movement as it began rolling across the horizon....

Tickling the ivories: Pianist tries to make a difference through music

Jeremy Thompson sits down at the piano and his fingers begin racing across the keys, pausing here and there for a special effect. As the notes ring out in harmony, he is taken from the moment to a place far,...

Hill receives MOC's top teaching honor for '10

MOUNT OLIVE -- Dr. David Hill is the 2010 recipient of the distinguished Dr. Thomas R. Morris Award for Excellence in Teaching at Mount Olive College. The award is given to a full-time faculty member who demonstrates excellence in...

Non-profit organized to help provide athletic, artistic opportunity

The Live On Foundation, a non-profit organization to help children and teenagers living in alternative homes such as foster homes, orphanages, etc., will be holding a benefit concert, "A Night Of Dreams," at 7 p.m. Paramount Theatre on June...

Host families needed for foreign exchange students

Host families for foreign students visiting the United States through East Carolina University's Terra Lingua/Terre des Langues program are being sought in the Goldsboro area. Homes for three high school students from Spain are needed between now and July 28,...

Meadow Lane students reach out to help Diamonds in the Ruff

Diana Cullipher and Rebecca Rodriguez happily clung to their stuffed animals as they walked down the hallway at Meadow Lane Elementary School on Friday. Diana brought in a light brown horse a friend bought for her during a trip...

Mount Olive College seeing rapid campus growth

MOUNT OLIVE -- Mount Olive College is taking a pro-active approach to the school's growing pains by securing additional housing for students and making other changes to improve campus life. Increasing the school's traditional student population has been one...

Friday, June 4, 2010

Former Pikeville resident killed on highway

A former Pikeville resident and business owner was killed early Thursday morning in Maryland. Ghassen "Gus" Sabra, 52, was stuck and killed by a vehicle around 1 a.m. while on Route 50 in Anne Arundel County, Md. The vehicle...

Duplin schools examine offer to compromise over funding

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Education disagreed Thursday on a funding compromise proposed by the county commissioners. Part of the memorandum of understanding drafted by the commissioners proposed an action that was not a legal option, the school...

Solar energy panels help company conserve

Jackson and Sons Heating and Air Conditioning is now producing more electricity than it can use, thanks to about 110 solar panels on its warehouse roof. The solar panels are supplying enough power to run the 20,000-square-foot warehouse on Indian...

Police are searching for clues in shooting

Goldsboro police have not officially developed a suspect in a Monday afternoon shooting that took the life of a 19-year-old man near a convenience store, Maj. Jeff Stewart said this morning. Stacey Lamar Edwards, who lived just blocks from...

Airman earns third Bronze Star

Van Hood is somewhat nonchalant when he talks about his 16-year career -- laughing about the day mortar blasted just beyond the reach of his unit; detailing, with a smile, the moment an Air Force recruiter told him he "could...

Public record

False fire reports The Goldsboro Fire Department and Goldsboro police were looking into a person who allegedly made multiple false fire calls to the county's emergency communications center. Police said they knew the calls came from the 400 block of...

County still looking at spending for 2010-11

Concerns about a $156 million county budget proposal beset by disappearing state funds and questions about the county's preliminary capital improvement plan and pay-as-you-go projects consumed the major portion of a Thursday morning county budget workshop. The session was...

Saturday pecan orchard tour open to all interested

Tim and Karen Haithcock will host the N.C. Pecan Growers Association for a spring orchard tour and workshop on Saturday. The event is open to anyone involved or interested in pecan farming. The cost is $15 and includes lunch....

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Food stamp rules changing this July

More people in Wayne County will qualify for nutrition benefits through the Food and Nutrition Services program beginning July 1. People who make up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level will meet the income requirement to receive food...

Suspects sought in meth lab blast

Three people are facing charges after a flash fire-type explosion at an alleged operating meth lab at a single-wide trailer in the 1300 block of Stevens Mill Road, authorities said early today. Authorities are searching for Brittany Ann Futrell, 20,...

Reading dog George hangs up his collar

George Pettypool has spent the last four years at Meadow Lane Elementary School helping students improve their reading and communication skills, simply by being a good listener. Quiet and attentive, he has enjoyed the weekly visits where each student spent...

N.C. DOT worker dies in trailer truck crash

WARSAW -- A state Department of Transportation worker was killed Wednesday and two others were injured in an accident on Interstate 40 in Duplin County. Jonathan King, 21, of Autryville was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer truck while...

Board to review county budget

Wayne County's $156 million budget proposal was expected to be the subject of a morning work session for county commissioners today. The session was actually a continuation of the board's Tuesday meeting. A second workshop, if necessary, will be...

DGDC chief speaks out on loss of rec center

More than a month after members of the Goldsboro City Council voted to not move forward with construction of a recreation center along Center Street, the loss is still being felt by those who have worked for the last...

Committee prepares to start work filling school board seat

With applications already being submitted, meetings should begin within the next couple of weeks for the nonpartisan committee charged with making a recommendation to county commissioners for someone to fill the unexpired District 2 school board term of Shirley...

Progress Energy to hold local vendor fair

Progress Energy is planning on having a vendor fair Monday for its upcoming power plant project in Wayne County. The fair is for local companies interested in learning more about possible work opportunities associated with the power plant. "The...

Rotary community service grant applications now being accepted until June 8

The Community Service Committee of the Goldsboro Rotary Club has opened a grant application period. Local non-profit organizations seeking funding are asked to complete an application form by June 8. These forms may be obtained from club President Fletcher...

Pikeville residents won't see rate hikes

Pikeville town commissioners moved forward with their proposed budget for 2010-11 Tuesday. The proposed budget doesn't have any tax or utility rate increases, but the monthly water tower maintenance fee will increase from $2 to $3 if the budget...

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

County rejects rezoning request near base

County policy discouraging development, even in the outer buffer zones surrounding Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, remained intact Tuesday morning after commissioners were unanimous in their rejection of a rezoning request. But even though the board refused to rezone...

Ready, set, showcase

Kristine Wright, art instructor with the city's ArtSmarts after school program, gives TeRique Butler, 11, a high five after she named the primary colors with Aaron Miranda, 8, looking on. The trio was preparing for the ArtSmarts Performance and Exhibit...

Recent rains shore up health of local crops

The much-needed rain these past two weeks was a welcome sight to area farmers. Field Extension Agent Kevin Johnson said it had been about five weeks since crops had substantial rain. "All the crops are looking good in the area,...

Fremont may raise water, sewer rates

The Fremont Board of Aldermen finally reached a budget its members could agree on at Tuesday night's work session. The new proposed budget, which will be voted on at the town's June 15 meeting, calls for a 5 percent increase...

Holiday slow for traffic citations

State Highway Patrol troopers joked during the Memorial Day weekend that half of Wayne County's population must have been in either Carteret or New Hanover counties, enjoying themselves at the beach. That led to a slow week overall in...

Duplin school board weighs compromise on funding lawsuit

KENANSVILLE -- The Duplin County Board of Education examined a compromise Tuesday that could avoid a potential 14-cent supplemental tax levy for county residents and begin rebuilding the board's working relationship with the county commissioners. Duplin County commission Chairman Cary...

One-stop voting set to open for second primary

One-stop voting will begin Thursday for the Democratic primary rematch between U.S. Senate hopefuls Elaine Marshall and Cal Cunningham. It is the only race on the June 22 second primary ballot when all of the county's 30 precincts polls...

Public record

Stabbing A West Oak Street man was stabbed after he was approached by a man he didn't know just after noon on Monday, accusing him of "hollering at his girl." The victim said he and the suspect, described as a...

Edgertons receive Long Leaf Pine honor

A local Goldsboro couple with a long history of helping others received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from Gov. Beverly Perdue last week. Bill and Jan Edgerton, founders of Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne, received the award...

After 40 years, shipmates reunite at Wilber's Barbecue

Laughter served up over barbecue and fried chicken melted away the 40 years since the three shipmates had seen each other, and for a brief time they were back aboard their ship, if only in their memories. For Garry...

EWHS cheerleaders headed to Gator Bowl

Eastern Wayne High School cheerleaders have even more to cheer about these days, since being invited to participate in the Gator Bowl parade and halftime show at year's end. Kerri Lee, cheerleading coach at the school for seven years,...

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Man, 19, dies after shooting at store

Police are looking for a suspect and a motive in a shooting that took the life of a 19-year-old Maple Street man outside a city convenience store on Monday afternoon, police said. Stacey Lamar Edwards was killed after being...

As the shirts whiz by ...

The Job: Steamer, sorter The Company: UniFirst Corporation The Location: Goldsboro Dear Ricky, Sorry about your shirt. Sincerely, Laura "That'll be $20," said UniFirst plant manager John Gedeon after I ripped a hole in a shirt while trying to remove...

Inquiry comes in meth lab blast

Authorities are not ready to release the names of the suspects in a flash fire type explosion at an alleged meth lab near Cherry Hospital, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office methamphetamine specialist said late Monday. Cpl. Chris Peedin, who...

Habitat will sell bricks dedicated to those who serve

Just in time for Memorial Day, Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne unveiled its Build a Foundation program to honor or memorialize the dedication of local men and women. Over the next month, Habitat will sell memorial bricks with two-line spaces...

Honoring heroes

For much of Monday morning, Judith Olsen kept her face in her hands -- hiding swollen eyes and wet cheeks from the hundreds who turned out to honor the fallen at Wayne Community College. But when an image of a...

Residents enjoy day, remember sacrifices

The smell of fresh peaches filled the air as a steady stream of local residents visited the Country Fruit Stand No. 3 on Highway 117 in Pikeville Monday afternoon. The residents were buying last-minute items for their Memorial Day cookouts...

Special Olympics names award winners

Special Olympics Wayne County recently named its annual award winners. Shannon Moore was named male athlete of the year and Heather Pardue was named female athlete of the year, both for independents or agencies. In the same category for...

Public record

Fire investigation Wayne County Sheriff's Office detectives are looking into the cause of a Friday fire at 1552 Kelly Springs Road in Mount Olive, reports show. The home is owned by James Barwick, 48, and caused an estimated $15,000 worth...