Friday, January 30, 2015
Illness forces school to cancel day's classes
Classes in the Lower School at Wayne Country Day School were canceled today after a 24-hour stomach bug made its way through the student roster. "It comes on quickly and it goes quickly, but we can't afford for kids...Published: Jan 30, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Law allows schools to sue over funding
Any effort to repeal the state law allowing boards of education to sue a county over school funding is not expected to generate much momentum in the General Assembly this session, state Rep. Jimmy Dixon said. "Repealing that is...Published: Jan 30, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Magical courage - 2015 Relay for Life kickoff
Anna Beth Sanderson's necklaces hang below her waist when she puts them on. The colorful, mismatched beads on the strands tell a story. Each is a battle and a triumph. On Thursday night at the Relay for Life 2015...Published: Jan 30, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Photography show at UMO gallery
MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive will host the photography exhibit, "Running from Bogeys and Chasing Birdies," in the Teresa Pelt Grubbs Art Gallery during the month of February. The show will display photographs by Jackie Kirby,...Published: Jan 30, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect being sought in residential break-in
One man is in custody and another on the loose as the Goldsboro Police Department investigates a residential break-in that took place Wednesday on West Lockhaven Drive. The break-in took place between 8:45 a.m. and 11:35 p.m., Sgt. Jeremy...Published: Jan 30, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Heroin dealer gets time in prison
A self-confessed gang leader, who in a seven-year span supplied the streets of Goldsboro and Wayne County with more than 33 kilograms of heroin, will spend more than twice that amount of time in federal prison, the N.C. Department...Published: Jan 29, 2015 2:05 PM Full Story
The last garbage men
First thing--the job is smelly. It is also exhausting, usually hot and difficult, even worse in the summer when the air is thick and breezes are non-existent. The dust that flies into your mouth out of the back of...Published: Jan 29, 2015 2:05 PM Full Story
Middle school assistant principal injured by student
A fight between two students at a Wayne County middle school before classes began this morning resulted in assistant principal Jamel Jones and a Goldsboro police officer being assaulted. The incident, involving two fifth-grade students, reportedly took place in the...Published: Jan 29, 2015 2:05 PM Full Story
Local family moves into Habitat home
Nereida Cruz is finally home. It's been a long journey for the mother of six. Her eyes filled with tears as she listened to her sister and members of the community welcome her to her new house at the...Published: Jan 29, 2015 2:05 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
School will expand
A charter school that opened its doors in the fall is preparing for its second year, with plans to add fifth grade and to hire additional staff. Wayne Preparatory Academy, located at the corner of Patetown and Tommy's Road, is...Published: Jan 28, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
District finances receive a clean review
The Wayne County Board of Education received a clean audit report for the past year on Tuesday at a work session called to better inform the full board about goings on in the district. The board also heard presentations...Published: Jan 28, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Board addresses head lice problem
Members of the Wayne County Board of Education raised questions Tuesday about how the district handles cases of head lice, with officials responding that efforts are being made to better educate parents and provide information. As a called work...Published: Jan 28, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
State funds for ag center limited
Wayne County's local legislators on Monday offered little encouragement that they would be able to steer a funding bill for the county's proposed regional agriculture center through a cash-strapped legislature. A request of $10 million or $15 million would...Published: Jan 28, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
County commissioners share wants with legislators
Future school construction in Wayne County will grind to a halt if the state fails to restore lottery funding that has been raided for use in other areas, Wayne County commissioners said. And restoring lottery funding for school construction is...Published: Jan 27, 2015 1:58 PM Full Story
Woman says car stolen; charged with DWI, crash
A Goldsboro woman who crashed her car in an apparent DWI tried to cover her tracks by reporting her car stolen, a Goldsboro police report said. Lacy Tyler Barnett, 22, 120 Highwoods Drive, is charged with DWI, reckless driving...Published: Jan 27, 2015 1:58 PM Full Story
Grantham School dealing with lice
Head lice. The words send shivers up and down the spines of parents everywhere. But officials say they are not dangerous, only pesky, although the infestation should nevertheless be treated quickly. At Grantham School over the past week, 10...Published: Jan 27, 2015 1:58 PM Full Story
Officials reporting rash of break-ins of vehicles
More than four dozen vehicle break-ins have occurred in Wayne County since the start of the year, Wayne County Sheriff's Office officials said Monday. The uptick in break-ins, one official said, actually began before the 2014 holiday season. It...Published: Jan 27, 2015 1:58 PM Full Story
Monday, January 26, 2015
WCC to sponsor Praxis Film Festival
The fifth annual Praxis Film Festival, begun at Wayne Community College and since adding another venue at the Paramount Theatre, will feature 41 short and full-length films from around the world. This year's event will take place Friday and...Published: Jan 26, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Land bought for school
Wayne County will spend $145,250 to purchase slightly more than eight additional acres of land to be used as a septic system drain (leach) field for the new Grantham Middle School. Wayne County commissioners Tuesday balked at paying $17,500 per...Published: Jan 26, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Gang-tervention
Criminal gangs operating in Wayne County will soon have more to worry about than rival gangs, enemy graffiti or drive-by shootings on their home turf. The biggest threat to the criminal enterprises will be a locally based FBI task...Published: Jan 26, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Man robbed near ATM on Saturday
A Snow Hill man could not provide a description of the two men he said threw him to the ground and robbed him as he completed at transaction at an ATM in Goldsboro, Saturday. The robbery took place at...Published: Jan 26, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Internet business robbed in city
At least four people were present when two armed men burst into an Internet sweepstakes establishment Saturday and robbed the business. The robbery took place at the Longhorn's Business Center at 1716 U.S. Highway 117 S., at 8:20 p.m....Published: Jan 26, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, January 25, 2015
YMCA Father Daughter Dance to be held Feb. 7
kballard@newsargus.com Alando Mitchell loves to dance with his daughters. He gathers the three of them up and they sway and glide at the same time. The quartet will show off their skills at the Goldsboro Family YMCA's Father-Daughter Dance Feb....Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Wayne County Reads kicks off this week
As part of the annual Wayne County Reads program, Wayne Community College will sponsor a talk this week on the state of the world's food supply. Dr. John M. O'Sullivan will speak on "Food Issues Present and Future" at...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Miss Goldsboro crowned
An enthusiastic crowd of more than 350 citizens of Wayne County and surrounding areas were on hand Saturday night at the Paramount Theatre in Goldsboro to witness the crowning of Miss Goldsboro 2015, Victoria Baskett. Moments after receiving her crown,...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Help sought in finding missing LaGrange teen
The Lenoir County Sheriff's Office is asking the public to help locate a missing teenager from the LaGrange area. On Nov. 20, Mikayla Alvarado boarded the school bus to her high school and arrived at school, but left the school...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Golden LEAF scholarships available
The Golden LEAF Scholarship Program will award up to 215 grants, each valued at of $12,000 ($3,000 per year for up to four years) for the 2015-16 academic year. These scholarships are made possible through a grant from the...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Gianna-Lorenn is 5-year-old star
kballard@newsargus.com Tami Singleton did not realize there was anything different about her daughter Gianna-Lorenn. She is typical 5-year-old. She rides her bike, plays in her child-sized kitchen and uses her dad as a human jungle-gym. But when she sang along...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Food, fellowship and field trials at Albertson Fox Hunt
sherring@newsargus.com ALBERTSON -- It has been nearly 70 years since a small group of people first got together in this rural Duplin County community to hold a fox hunt and meal to celebrate the George Washington's birthday. Dog trials replaced...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Civil War spy Greenhow portrayed
The Goldsboro Rifles camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans will present Kelly Atkins Hinson portraying Civil War spy Rose O'Neal Greenhow at the Wayne County Museum on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. The legendary Greenhow, known as "Wild...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Automated garbage trucks on their way
esmith@newsargus.com Fullu automated garbage trucks are on their way-- and ahead of schedule, the city public works director told members of Goldsboro City Council this week. Jose Martinez said the trucks, called "one-arm bandits," will replace three older trucks --...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Art of Fashion show Feb. 27
The Arts Council of Wayne County is hosting its first Art of Fashion show. The show will be featuring local designers, boutiques, jewelers, photographers, stylists and models. Many garments and accessories featured are handmade by local artists. This event is...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Non-emergency 911 calls a concern
sherring@newsargus.com It would be impossible to eliminate all non-emergency calls that tie up Wayne County's 911 system, county commissioners learned this past week. Commissioners ordered a study of the emergency communication system, and the consulting firm tasked with the job...Published: Jan 25, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, January 23, 2015
Two hunters rescued after boat capsizes
Search and rescue teams were called in early this morning after a boat capsized in the Neuse River off Ferry Bridge Road, throwing two duck hunters into the water. The men were able to swim to safety but were...Published: Jan 23, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Contestants will compete for crown
Miss Goldsboro 2015 will be crowned Saturday night at the Paramount Theatre. Seven contestants will vie for the title, with three others competing in the Outstanding Teen category. Tickets for the pageant, which starts at 7 p.m., are currently...Published: Jan 23, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Chamber of Commerce stuns 2015 Cornerstone Award recipient Emily Weil
Emily Weil's first thought when she saw the photograph of herself projected onto the large screen at the Walnut Creek Country Club was where in the world had someone been able to find it. "It was total amazement," she...Published: Jan 23, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Council tables plan for complex
Just as quickly as plans for an affordable housing complex in downtown Goldsboro were proposed to city leaders, the plans have been canceled -- at least for now. After an outcry of mixed responses to the project rattled through...Published: Jan 23, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
shoe designer dies
Shoe designer Vince Camuto, Nine West co-founder, dies at 78 Eds: Raises reference to Camuto being Nine West Group co-founder. Adds details to headlines. Legendary women's footwear designer Vince Camuto, who co-founded shoe company Nine West Group, has died...Published: Jan 23, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Pikeville starts search for new chief
PIKEVILLE -- Town commissioners will be interviewing five candidates to fill the vacant police chief position Friday. The board will meet in a closed session to speak with each of the five potential hires. Mayor Glenn Hartman said he...Published: Jan 22, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Tractor-trailer tumbles
Traffic toward U.S. 117 was rerouted from A Street to North George Street for more than an hour Wednesday afternoon after a tractor-trailer overturned at the corner of A Street and Florida Street. Goldsboro police Sgt. Doug Bethea said...Published: Jan 22, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC takes over site
The lights and water are already on, and work will begin next week on the first phase of a Wayne Community College project that will turn the former Cooper Bussmann building into the college's Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence....Published: Jan 22, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro pilot crashes plane in Grantham field
GRANTHAM -- A Goldsboro pilot escaped injury Wednesday afternoon around 5:30 p.m. when a mechanical problem forced him to attempt an emergency landing of his one-seat ultra-light aircraft in a field near Grantham. The aircraft, piloted by Ronnie Allen,...Published: Jan 22, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
County tables funding vote
Wayne County commissioners were quick to say Tuesday that they support the Special Olympics. But they refused a request to provide financial support for the organization, at least for the time being. Instead, they said, the organization and the...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Council votes to repair sewer system
Goldsboro will begin implementing a rehabilitation plan to repair trouble spots in its sanitary sewer lines throughout the city after City Council approved the project Tuesday night. Instead of entering into an agreement with the engineering firm of McKim...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
WCC Small Business Center marks 30th anniversary
For 30 years, the Small Business Center at Wayne Community College has been providing support and assistance to start-ups and fledgling entrepreneurs, with the director crediting its longevity to partnerships between the college and community as well as economic...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Suspect caught in traffic stop
The Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team stopped a Wilson man traveling through the county Sunday and found marijuana in the vehicle, according to a press release. Joshua Michael Jordell Nelson, 30, of 3716 Lear Court NW...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Fremont in good financial shape
FREMONT -- The Fremont Board of Aldermen Tuesday night received a clean bill of health regarding the town's financial statements from 2014. Andrew Harris, auditor for the town of Fremont for the previous six years, said the books were...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Crime of the week
On Nov. 21, 2014, and Dec. 5, 2014, occupied residences located in the 100 Block of East Smith Street in Pikeville were intentionally set on fire. Both fires resulted the structure sustained minimal damage. The Pikeville Police Department and the...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Arts Council makes push to raise funds
The Arts Council of Wayne County is halfway to its goal of $45,000 for its annual fund drive, which ends June 30. Director Sarah Merritt said the nonprofit has an annual operating budget of $290,000, and the fund drive...Published: Jan 21, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Forum engages officers, community
Speaking to a gathering of mostly middle-aged and older black residents at Rebuilding Broken Places Saturday, Goldsboro police Chief Jeff Stewart said if the community wants to talk about race relations, the wrong people were in the room. It...Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
After-school meal
It all started with a phone call and a question. But sometimes that's all it takes to make a difference. Jo Heidenreich, development director at Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County, is used to people asking about the...Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Traffic stop leads to arrest for marijuana
A traffic stop led Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement (ACE) Team deputies to search a house on Frankie's Lane in Goldsboro Friday. Marijuana and cash were seized during the search. Kameron Dawson Howard, 20, 116 Frankie's Lane,...Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
City, county high in crashes
Goldsboro and Wayne County rank high on a report of traffic accidents in municipalities and counties across the state. Goldsboro was rated by the Governor's Highway Safety Commission as the city with the fifth highest number of traffic accidents....Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thoroughfare VFD receives grant from Georgia-Pacific Co.
The Thoroughfare Volunteer Fire Department is among 50 grant recipients of Georgia-Pacific's Bucket Brigade program this year. The department was awarded $5,000 to help fund equipment needs. "We're proud to have the opportunity to meet the significant needs of...Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Superintendents create guide for school goals
School superintendents across the state, including Wayne County Public Schools' interim, Dr. Sandra McCullen, "made history" recently by creating a guide to enhance K-12 education in North Carolina. At a Jan. 13 gathering at the Raleigh Convention Center, Mrs....Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Judge's wife's car broken into at event
An Apple iPad stolen from a vehicle parked outside the Goldsboro-Raleigh District Assembly Hall at 211 W. Hooks River Road Monday morning during the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration has the owner's name engraved under the...Published: Jan 20, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 19, 2015
Church hit by gunfire on Sunday
The Goldsboro Police Department is investigating a shooting on Bryant Street Sunday that damaged a nearby church. Members of The Potter's House, 728 Bryant St., were inside the church counting money at 12:40 p.m. Sunday when bullets came flying...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Flowers: District lines need close look
Instead of building a new middle school in the northwestern part of the county, the Wayne County Board of Education should look first at "tweaking" district lines to address capacity concerns, board member Arnold Flowers said. "This is my...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
The dream lives on
For the Rev. Dr. Carolyn McKinstry, every aspect of her life was segregated growing up in Birmingham, Ala. Her grandmother was brought to Birmingham by her grandfather because she was sick -- but the hospital denied her entry because she...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Teen robs city man in his front yard
A Goldsboro man investigating a noise outside his home at 8:15 p.m. Sunday ended up being robbed for all the money in his pocket, according to a Goldsboro police report. Harold Edward Massengill, 49, of Edgerton Street, had seen...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County weighs Special Olympics support
County Manager George Wood is recommending that Wayne County commissioners deny a request by the city of Goldsboro to jointly fund a full-time events coordinator position for the city. The coordinator would work with the Special Olympics and the...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Annual science fair produces 30 winners, 12 regional competitors
The annual science fair for Wayne County Public School produced 30 winners in 13 categories, with 12 first-place finishers now advancing to the regional competition next month. The local event, held Saturday at Goldsboro High School, had representatives from...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Students from Wisconsin help with Faith Build site for Habitat
The cold snap does not faze Tracy Flood. She wears a light jacket to ward off the wind, talking with her friends about going to the beach during the week. Tracy is a sophomore at Marquette University. Compared to...Published: Jan 19, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Saturday, January 17, 2015
GPD officers worried about safety, leadership
Some Goldsboro police officers are worried. They don't just read about the increasing number of reports of violence in their community. They are there on the front lines. They say they are concerned about their community -- and about their...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
WCPS bus grades improve
The most recent inspection scores of the Wayne County Public Schools' bus fleet shows a reversal of what had been three years of declines. However, the county "still has a lot of work to do," transportation director Robert Lee...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
Police chief, city manager respond to critics
Goldsboro City Manager Scott Stevens said Thursday his support of police Chief Jeff Stewart is absolute. Stewart, in turn, said he feels that the Goldsboro Police Department operations are running smoothly and that, in spite of the recent surge in...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
Special Olympics in limbo due to dispute over funding
Wayne County's Special Olympics athletes are in trouble. They are without an events coordinator and, therefore, without a leader. The events coordinator would be in charge of the Wayne County Special Olympics, which ceased to exist in its current...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
Skate park coming to Goldsboro
It was an uncommon duo with an uncommon method of accomplishing their goal. Two 14-year-old boys wanted a skate park -- so they stood in front of the Goldsboro City Council in December and laid out the pros, cons,...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
MLK Jr. breakfast will feature Civil Rights activist
The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day prayer breakfast will feature a woman who has seen, first hand, the impact of the Civil Rights movement. Rev. Dr. Carolyn Maull McKinstry, who was present during the 16th Street Baptist Church...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
Offices closed for holiday
Most local government offices will be closed Monday in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. And state and federal offices, post offices and banks will be closed, too. All Wayne County offices will be closed, including the...Published: Jan 17, 2015 10:32 PM Full Story
Friday, January 16, 2015
Police investigate hotel shooting
The Goldsboro Police Department is investigating the shooting of a man inside a room at the Economy Inn early this morning. Victor Devon Braswell, age and address unknown, was wounded when a single shot was fired during an altercation...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County records first flu death
State health officials say 26 people died from the flu in North Carolina last week, raising the death toll for 2014-2015 to 90. And one of those victims was from Wayne County. Josa Vaughn, who works with communicable disease...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Two arrested on cocaine charges in city
A search warrant executed by the Goldsboro Police Department Support Services Division Thursday resulted in two arrests for the sale of cocaine, according to a press release. The arrest took place at 1209 Greenleaf St. in Goldsboro. Rueben Knowles...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials, NAACP discuss concerns
Tempers flared Thursday during a meeting between city officials and members of the local chapter of the NAACP -- as some local residents expressed concern about everything from the lack of minorities in the Goldsboro Police Department to the way...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Schools seeking calendar changes
Changes to a law designed to benefit North Carolina's tourism industry are hindering the education of the state's children, Wayne County Board of Education members said. And Monday night, board Chairman Chris West called on the public "to lean...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
University of Mount Olive will host Hammered Dulcimer Music Event
MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive will host the Hammered Dulcimer Music Event on Sunday, Feb. 8. at 6 p.m. in the Historic Assembly Hall, 207 Wooten St. The event will consist of a community worship service,...Published: Jan 16, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Pikeville commissioner resigns his spot on board
PIKEVILLE -- Town commissioner Todd Anderson resigned his position on the board Tuesday. Town administrator Michael Hunt said Anderson came into the Town Hall and returned his paycheck and ordinance book and then verbally removed himself from the board....Published: Jan 15, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Meth lab found in local hotel room
The Wayne County Drug Squad said a meth lab it took down inside a Goldsboro motel Wednesday posed a real threat to the area, not necessarily because of the meth the suspects were manufacturing, but because of all the chemicals...Published: Jan 15, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Sheriff: Citizens' tips lead to heroin arrest
A traffic stop conducted Monday resulted in 46 bindles of heroin being taken off the street, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said. A bindle is a single dose of heroin. Ivan Elijah Darden, 27, 108 Brookwood Drive, is charged with...Published: Jan 15, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Schools to open on time
New middle schools under construction in the Grantham and Spring Creek communities will open on time next August despite rain delays that have all but erased early construction gains. Both sites are muddy, particularly Grantham, said Ryan Carter of...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Crews salt; ice skips
State road crews dumped 50 tons of salt on Wayne County's bridges and overpasses overnight and into this morning as the area braced for the possibility of freezing rain. "I think we dodged it," Luther Thompson, Wayne County Department...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville town board splits on new commissioner
PIKEVILLE -- Town commissioners appointed Jay Hare to serve the remainder of the position held by the late Al Greene, but not without a debate. Greene, 77, died Jan. 9 while he was still serving as a town commissioner....Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Another eatery coming
Goldsboro residents will soon have another deli to choose from for lunch or dinner. McAlister's Deli, owned by Southern Deli holdings out of Matthews, will take over the old Schlotzsky's Deli location at 431 N. Berkeley Blvd. It is set...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Application process begins for SJSCSC scholarships
Throughout the year, volunteers have been selling items at Seymour Johnson's Air Force Base's thrift shop to fund the annual Seymour Johnson Spouses' Club Scholarship Committee Scholarship. And this year, the SJSCSC says any United States Air Force dependents...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Wayne County Arts Council to welcome guest to concert
Singer Mavis Poole will be the guest artist at the PNC Presents Wayne County Jazz Showcase Friday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Arts Council of Wayne County. Ms. Poole was born and raised in Durham to musical parents....Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Two men arrested on marijuana charges
The Goldsboro-Wayne County Interagency Drug Task Force and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force seized 12 pounds of marijuana and a sawed off shotgun during what it called a "quick action response" to...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Pikeville resident charged with felonies
Pikeville business owner Joseph Wayne Blizzard, also known as "Doodle," has been charged with two felony counts of possession of stolen property, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday. Blizzard, 38, of 1273 Nahunta Road in Pikeville, was found...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Crime of the week
On Monday, Jan. 5 at approximately 3:15 a.m. an unknown, white male wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt broke into the Pizza Inn, located at 110 S. Goldsboro St. in Pikeville, and stole a safe containing currency. The Pikeville Police Department...Published: Jan 14, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Icy mix headed for area
Most of Wayne County saw an inch to an inch and a half of rain late Sunday night and into Monday, causing localized flooding in some spots. But it is what forecasters say is coming next that has many...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
School delay Wednesday
Wayne County Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay Wednesday morning due to expected inclement weather. School officials are waiting before making any decision on this afternoon's classes or any further cancellations on Wednesday, said Ken Derksen, the director...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
New school contract draws board criticism
The quick turnaround in approving $8 million in contracts for school renovation projects was questioned Monday by one member of the Wayne County Board of Education. And that discussion prompted another to suggest that all financial and facility issues...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Pizza store robbed Monday
A masked man armed with a pistol entered the Papa John's Pizza at 2617 Royall Ave. sometime between 9:30 and 9:45 p.m. Monday and left minutes later with an undetermined amount of cash. Sgt. Dale Foster said the suspect...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Firefighters battle blaze, rescue dog
Septimber Clements bolted through fire trucks surrounding 2609 Hill Drive Circle as smoke billowed from her home Monday with one thing on her mind -- where was her dog, Amelia Lorraine. Smoke had heavily damaged the outside of her...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Building collapses
Under heavy rains that fell overnight Sunday and throughout much of the day Monday, a downtown building collapsed on North Center Street. No one was inside the building at 139B N. Center St. when it came crashing down. Nor...Published: Jan 13, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 12, 2015
An afternoon of a little music
A smile cracks Hannah Boyd's face when her mom zooms her around the room. Her mom, Erika Boyd, sings along to the goofy song while holding Hannah like an airplane. Hannah motors around the pottery shop during her music...Published: Jan 12, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Man, 54, faces sexual assault charge
A Goldsboro man is being held under a $500,000 bond after his arrest on Friday as the result of a sexual assault investigation that was launched against him in August 2013. James Lee McLaurin, 54, of 811 Argo St.,...Published: Jan 12, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County to revisit four-day work week
MOUNT OLIVE -- The four-day work week that most Wayne County government offices have been operating under since August 2008 is being revisited. Most offices operate on 10-hour shifts Monday through Thursday and are closed on Fridays under the...Published: Jan 12, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Vehicle airborne in fatal collision
Crash investigators with the Goldsboro Police Department believe a medical condition caused a man to lose control of his vehicle on U.S. 70 Bypass West on Sunday, sending him over a bridge and onto the street below. Joe Nathan...Published: Jan 12, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Housing complex planned for city
There might soon be a cheaper place to live in downtown Goldsboro for young professionals and families, developers told Goldsboro City Council at a recent work session. Greg Horn and David Brown, who are proposing an affordable housing complex...Published: Jan 12, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Plans begin for air show
Wayne County residents -- and tourists -- are in for a roaring good time when jets of all kinds hit Seymour Johnson Air Force Base during this year's Wings Over Wayne air show, which is set for May 16-17....Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Brrrr-splash
EDITOR'S NOTE: Reporter Kirsten Ballard did not just cover the 2015 Polar Plunge. She dove right in, too. Emma Padgett was frozen. The 10-year-old stood shivering in her Elsa hat, wrapped in towels. "I can't feel my feet," she said....Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Counting homeless in county
Wayne County agencies are leading an effort to get a count of how many homeless people live in the county -- as part of an effort to get more resources to help them. "The Point In Time Count" is...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
County to look at nonprofits
MOUNT OLIVE -- Nonprofit organizations can expect a hard sell this year when they face Wayne County commissioners to seek county funding. If the nonprofit requests more than $5,000, its officers can expect to be asked for the organization's...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Police have man's photo in flashing cases at store
Goldsboro police are looking for a man who some female shoppers say exposed himself twice at a local retail store. And now they have a photo of a possible suspect from the store's surveillance camera. Complaints have been filed...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
College releases new continuing ed class offerings
Wayne Community College Continuing Education Services will introduce several new courses in the spring semester -- from sewing lingerie and voice training to pet care and bead making. For the first time, "Sewing Lingerie" will be offered for students...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Tax lists deadline looming in county
The tax-listing period is under way through the end of the month. There is a penalty for listing late -- 10 percent of the total amount due. Anyone residing in the county on Jan. 1, whether temporarily or not,...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Snow Hill native honored
A Snow Hill native, Dr. Keith Gray, chief of the Division of Surgical Oncology and Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, graduated from the Physician Executive Masters of Business Administration program at the University of...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Retirees On Call will expand efforts to assist local military
Nearly a year since being introduced to link military retirees with an opportunity to support deployed and active duty families, Retirees on Call is gaining momentum and poised to be replicated at other installations around the country. The progress...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
A hook and a prayer
Bags overflow with blankets and shawls and laughter echoes down the halls of First Baptist Church. It is more like a sleepover than a crochet group. Five women meet every Monday at 9 a.m. to talk, to craft and...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Library director is new HR chief
Jerilyn Lee, who had been serving as interim director for the Wayne County Human Resources Department, has been hired for the position full time. Her hiring was announced Tuesday morning by Wayne County Manager George Wood. Mrs. Lee, manager...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Hospital entrance closed for renovation
Beginning Monday, Jan. 12, the hospital's main visitor entrance will be closed from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m. for renovations. During that time, visitors are asked to enter and exit through the ground floor. Signs will be posted to direct...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Ham radio organization offering licensing class
The Wayne County Amateur Radio Association is offering a technician licensing class at Wayne Community College, beginning on Jan. 13 and continuing through March 17. The class will meet weekly from 6 to 9 p.m. in room 223 in...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Promotion announced by college
It has been announced that Dr. Tracie Sawyer Clark will become executive assistant to Dr. Tony Zeiss, president of Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte. She is an instructor in CPCC's Communication and Speech Department and director of STAR: Success...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Father-daughter dance
The Goldsboro Family YMCA's WARM Hearts Mentoring Program is sponsoring its 12th annual Father-Daughter Dance on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. in the Y's gymnasium. There will be dancing, food, games, a cake walk, door prizes...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Collins receives designation
John Collins of Collins Wealth Management in Goldsboro has been awarded the estate planning designation of certified estate and trust specialist by the Institute of Business and Finance. This graduate-level designation is conferred upon candidates who complete a more than...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Test scores, grant, program on agenda
The Wayne County Board of Education is expected to vote on a different way of measuring test scores at two alternative schools at its monthly meeting Monday night, and will also hear presentations on the expanding public safety program...Published: Jan 11, 2015 1:50 AM Full Story
Friday, January 9, 2015
Students take chance to get ahead at WCC
A program allowing students to simultaneously start earning college credits while working toward a high school diploma continues to be a popular option at Wayne Community College, officials say. College and Career Promise, or CCP, has been around for...Published: Jan 9, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County commissioner says tax relief deadlines must hold
Wayne County Commissioner Joe Daughtery recently questioned the need for deadlines for state tax relief programs if the county is not going to hold taxpayers to them. Two programs, the Senior Citizen/Disability Homestead Exclusion and the Disabled Veteran Property...Published: Jan 9, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Frozen
From left, Tehryn Miller, 5, Samiya Woodson, 4, Jamie Reyes-Dawson, 5, and Ariel Lofton, 5, rear, are bundled up against the cold as they get off the bus at WAGES Head Start. The spate of freezing weather that has...Published: Jan 9, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Former director agrees to mediation
Wayne County's former human resources director has agreed to mediation of her grievances with her former employer. But as of Wednesday, Sue Guy said she does not know if the county feels the same way. County Manager George Wood,...Published: Jan 9, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Ammonia stolen; officials suspect meth use
Ten pounds of anhydrous ammonia has been stolen from a fenced-in storage shed at the Airgas National Welders facility located at 109 Hinnant Road. The theft took place between 5 p.m. Jan. 2 and 12 p.m. Jan 6. "They...Published: Jan 9, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Shelter will open tonight
Due to the bitterly cold weather, the Salvation Army will continue to keep its shelter open through Saturday for anyone needing a warm place to stay. The shelter opened at 6 p.m. Wednesday and closed at 9 a.m. today, said...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Local chef has a knife in the fight in Raleigh
Chelsi Hogue wants to leave her mark on Goldsboro. The executive chef at Ed's Southern Food and Spirits thrives in the pressure and chaos of the kitchen. In the first few months at the location on Center Street, Chelsi...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Death row inmate questions evidence
New evidence could potentially exonerate a man who has been on death row for nearly 10 years after a Wayne County jury convicted him in 2005 of the 2002 kidnapping, rape and murder of 5-year-old Precious Ebony Whitfield. Eric...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Wood: County needs plan for facilities
Wayne County has made progress in its capital facilities needs, such as the jail, but a master facilities plan is still needed to provide a prioritized guide, County Manager George Wood said. "A year ago we didn't know where...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Two face charges in gun thefts
CALYPSO -- Two of the three men responsible for the breaking, entering and theft of 73 guns from Calypso Wholesale in the early morning hours of Sept. 27 have been arrested, authorities say. A third suspect, Cruise Dion Scott,...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Traffic stop leads to drug charges
A Goldsboro man is charged with selling marijuana after a traffic stop conducted by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Crime Enforcement Team Jan. 3. James Christopher Smith, 24, of 302 Sherwood Circle is charged with possession with intent...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Community rallies to help Fulghum family
MOUNT OLIVE -- The community has been "gracious" in its support in advance of Friday night's fundraiser for George Fulghum and his family, said Lynn Williams. Mrs. Williams, one of the event organizers, said now it is important that...Published: Jan 8, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
More charges filed in shooting
MOUNT OLIVE -- Charges have been filed against the father of a 2-year-old boy who was injured in a Christmas Eve shooting that investigators say was the result of an argument over a drug deal. Charges also have been...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Police seeking shooting suspect
Investigators with the Goldsboro Police Department have positively identified the man they say shot and critically wounded a Goldsboro man outside an East Ash Street convenience store Christmas Eve. Christopher Dre Myatt, 22, of 9224 Old Cascade Drive, Garner,...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Woman opens door to masked gunman
A Goldsboro woman escaped injury when a masked gunman forced his way into her home and robbed her Tuesday evening. The burglary took place at 6 p.m. According to the police report, Ethel Lee, 70, 1502 Day Circle, answered...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Mayo: Move was just dirty politics
Wayne County Commissioner Ray Mayo Tuesday morning said "dirty politics" by fellow commissioners had cost him reappointment to several key committees. Mayo was not reappointed by Chairman Wayne Aycock to either the facilities committee, which he had chaired, or...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Chill is on the horizon
Wayne County residents are being warned to take precautions to protect themselves and their pets from the cold as a combination of an Arctic air mass and blustery winds tonight into Thursday morning will create dangerous wind chills in...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County reads 'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle'
This year's selection for "Wayne County Reads" lends itself to heightened awareness and discussions about getting back to basics at the dinner table. "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" is the part memoir, part journalistic investigation book by Barbara Kingsolver, chronicling her...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Red Cross launches 'SleevesUp'
With social media everywhere today, the American Red Cross has decided to tap into this audience by creating its brand new SleevesUp Campaign. "It's a web-based tool to create a virtual blood drive," said Red Cross account manager Miranda...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Greene County Museum opens year with new exhibit of drawings
SNOW HILL -- The Greene County Museum begins 2015 with the exhibit "Drawings by Michael Voors." Voors is a professor in the School of Art and Design at East Carolina University, where he has taught since 1980. The opening...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Forgery attempt results in arrest
A Goldsboro man allegedly attempting to pass a forged check at a local bank got more than he bargained for when tellers noticed the phony signature, according to a Wayne County Sheriff' Office press release. Tyquan Nakeem Coley, 22, is...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Crime of the week
On Nov. 3, the resident of 104 S. Leslie St. in Goldsboro reported to the Goldsboro Police Department that he discovered a break-in had occurred at their residence between the dates of Oct. 31 and Nov. 3. The location was...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Honoring the regulators
Being a bridge game director is sometimes a thankless job -- and sometimes it's almost a scorned position. But someone has to do it or no one could play bridge at the Goldsboro Bridge Club. And that's why the...Published: Jan 7, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Race and city police
The president of the local chapter of the NAACP challenged the Goldsboro City Council Monday night to deal head-on with alleged problems between police and the black community. Sylvia Barnes said a conversation on race has to be started...Published: Jan 6, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Coalition president Al Greene passes
PIKEVILLE -- Albert "Al" E. Greene, Pikeville town commissioner and president of the Wayne County Veterans and Patriots Coalition, died Monday night at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. He was 77. Greene spent his lifetime in the service of his...Published: Jan 6, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Man assaulted in local store's parking lot
A Dudley man robbed as he was coming out of the Walmart at 1002 N. Spence Ave. early Monday said his assailant spoke to him in Spanish. The incident took place at 1:20 a.m. Ramon Mata, 38, told Goldsboro...Published: Jan 6, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Monday, January 5, 2015
Goldsboro native joins pin-up effort for vets
Goldsboro native Jovane M. Henry is many things. She is a former Marine, a journalist, and a 1940s pin-up girl. Jovane comes from a family of service. Her father, Johnny Holland, is a disabled veteran, and she served in...Published: Jan 5, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Science impacted justice for local DA
Jurors watch crime shows like CSI and NCIS. And that colors what they expect to see if they are called to sit on a case -- an answer generated by running evidence through a machine. Former District Attorney Branny...Published: Jan 5, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
West: Superintendent job 1
The biggest challenge before the Wayne County Board of Education in the new year is finding the right person to lead the district, says recently elected chairman Chris West. Schools Superintendent Dr. Steve Taylor announced his retirement in November, effective...Published: Jan 5, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
County commissioners will hold hearing on light district Tuesday
sherring@newsargus.com Wayne County commissioners on Tuesday will hold their second public hearing on turning the street lights back on in one of the de-annexed subdivisions north of Goldsboro. The public hearing for the Buck Run Light District will be held...Published: Jan 5, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Council to discuss an array of issues
The Goldsboro City Council will start 2015 with a full agenda of more than 20 items to discuss tonight. It will also be Chuck Allen's first council meeting as the new mayor pro-tem. There are six items on the...Published: Jan 5, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Saturday, January 3, 2015
N.C. Umpire Association president charged with stealing checks
The president of the N.C. Umpire Association has been charged with stealing checks and depositing them in the association's bank account, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday. Robert Morris Smith, 51, of 159 Ditch Bank Road, has been...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:55 PM Full Story
Man stabbed during robbery
A fight at a residence on Peachtree Street led to a stabbing Friday which resulted in both the victim and the suspect being transported to Wayne Memorial Hospital. Witnesses said the attack was part of a robbery attempt, but...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:55 PM Full Story
Gang conference to be held Monday
MOUNT OLIVE -- The ninth annual Eastern North Carolina Gang Conference will be held Monday at the University of Mount Olive. The training begins at 9 a.m. and will conclude at 4 p.m. and will be held in the Southern...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:55 PM Full Story
Local judge tapped to lead N.C. Innocence Commission
When a Wayne County man was vindicated in 2008 after spending nearly two decades in prison for a crime he did not commit, the local community was forever bonded to the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission. But Dwayne Dail...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:55 PM Full Story
Vickory looks back, ahead
Cowboy? Garbage truck driver? Both are unrealized dreams for a youthful Branny Vickory of Mount Olive. He spent 16 years as the county's top prosecutor instead. Vickory, 58, served as an assistant district attorney from 1984 until 1998 before...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:55 PM Full Story
N.C. Umpire Association president charged with stealing checks
The president of the N.C. Umpire Association has been charged with stealing checks and depositing them in the association's bank account, the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said Wednesday. Robert Morris Smith, 51, of 159 Ditch Bank Road, has been...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:53 PM Full Story
Man stabbed during robbery
A fight at a residence on Peachtree Street led to a stabbing Friday which resulted in both the victim and the suspect being transported to Wayne Memorial Hospital. Witnesses said the attack was part of a robbery attempt, but...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:53 PM Full Story
Gang conference to be held Monday
MOUNT OLIVE -- The ninth annual Eastern North Carolina Gang Conference will be held Monday at the University of Mount Olive. The training begins at 9 a.m. and will conclude at 4 p.m. and will be held in the Southern...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:53 PM Full Story
Local judge tapped to lead N.C. Innocence Commission
When a Wayne County man was vindicated in 2008 after spending nearly two decades in prison for a crime he did not commit, the local community was forever bonded to the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission. But Dwayne Dail...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:53 PM Full Story
Vickory looks back, ahead
Cowboy? Garbage truck driver? Both are unrealized dreams for a youthful Branny Vickory of Mount Olive. He spent 16 years as the county's top prosecutor instead. Vickory, 58, served as an assistant district attorney from 1984 until 1998 before...Published: Jan 3, 2015 10:52 PM Full Story
Friday, January 2, 2015
Foster Grandparents need volunteers
Their uniform is simple -- a red vest and a smile. Foster Grandparents are known throughout the county as the seniors who wear red. But at the 16 volunteer stations where they serve, they have a reputation for being...Published: Jan 2, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Officials question highway funding
MOUNT OLIVE -- North Carolina's new transportation plan might be getting high marks from Gov. Pat McCrory and other state officials, but in Wayne County it is being panned for shortchanging the state's rural areas. State leaders contend that...Published: Jan 2, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Goldsboro police seek store flasher
Goldsboro police and security personnel are working to identify a man who has twice entered the TJ Maxx retail store at 1303 N. Berkeley Blvd. and exposed himself to women. His most recent antics escalated to the level of assault,...Published: Jan 2, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Losing a hero
Wayne County lost its top lawman Jan. 24, when Sheriff Carey Winders, who was the first Republican to hold the office in more than a century, died suddenly of a heart attack. He was 57. Winders suffered a heart attack...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Resolutions? Some make 'em and some don't
Goldsboro Parks and Recreation director Scott Barnard probably won't make a resolution for 2015. Not after the one he made for 2014. Because he was on the losing end of a bet made for that one, he will have...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
2014: a look back
It was a year to remember, and to forget. 2014 is now over and the events that transpired in Wayne County during the year will become part of its long history. It was a year of loss, with the deaths...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Flu still putting county in bed
It seems everybody's got something. Whether or not it is the flu is another matter. But medical offices around the county, particularly those of the walk-in "urgent care" variety, have been consistently packed this holiday season. Cough, fever and...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
2014 -- a look back at some of the top news stories
* Gun violence in city on rise The Goldsboro Police Department is expected to release its annual Uniform Crime Report in January detailing 2014's crime statistics, but without it, it could still be said that the epidemic of gun violence...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Help save a puppy
Dori needs a home for the new year -- and soon. The 4 1/2-month-old black lab mix weighs about 25 pounds and is nothing but a big bundle of love. She is very playful with lots of energy, and would...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story
Mount Olive marks the new year with a pickle and splash
MOUNT OLIVE -- New York dropped a ball in Times Square. London shot off fireworks. And Mount Olive, for the 16th year in a row, lowered an oversized pickle into a vat of "brine." Hundreds converged on the small...Published: Jan 1, 2015 1:46 PM Full Story