October 2016 archives

View Archive

Monday, October 31, 2016

Wayne Country Day students 'treat' themselves to Halloween carnival

What do an ice cream cone, a basketball player and a Tyrannosaurus Rex have in common? Wayne Country Day School students dressed up as all three and more during their Halloween carnival Monday afternoon, as hundreds of students packed the...

Truck catches fire, shuts off traffic to Edgerton Street for an hour

A box truck caught on fire at 913 Edgerton St. Monday around 1 p.m., damaging a duplex's vinyl siding but leaving nobody injured. The truck belongs to Expert Cleaning Systems, LLC and is owned by Donald Goodwin of Pikeville. Goldsboro...

Mount Olive giveaway event slated for Saturday

MOUNT OLIVE -- Donations of clothing, especially for children, are needed for the First Baptist Church's fourth annual Warm the World clothing giveaway. Coats, blankets, hats, gloves and scarves will given to community residents from 9 to 11 a.m....

Communities in Schools to hold partner meeting Thursday

This year's Communities in Schools community partner meeting, planned for Thursday, will be a celebration, despite the upheaval created around the county by Hurricane Matthew. "It's a thank you to our community for all their support, and to let...

Airman killed in vehicle accident

A service member assigned to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base died in Greenville Saturday from injuries suffered in an off-road motorcycle accident. According to a SJAFB news release, Senior Airman Earl Grover Jr., 23, of the 4th Equipment Maintenance...

Wayne Opportunity Center in ruins as staff begins to rebuild

The extent of the damage done to Wayne Opportunity Center by Hurricane Matthew and the subsequent flooding is unknown. The building on South George Street is still without power and phone service. "When we came back into the building...

Meeting to connect residents to resources

Christ in Action, a Virginia-based disaster relief ministry, will host a community meeting Tuesday to connect residents with hurricane recovery resources. The meeting will be from 6 to 7 p.m. at Generation Church at 3016 Summit Road, near U.S....

County to talk housing standards

Wayne County residents Tuesday will have the opportunity to weigh in on a plan to establish minimum housing standards in the county. The standards would apply to site-built dwellings and manufactured homes. Standards for site-built dwellings would include structural...

WorkKeys tests available at Wayne Community College

Wayne County residents have several opportunities to take the WorkKeys tests for the National Career Readiness Certificate in November. The Wayne Occupational Readiness Keys for Success, or WORKS, program will provide testing sessions 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Nov. 1, 8...

Airman killed in weekend wreck

A service member assigned to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base died in Greenville Saturday from injuries suffered in an off-road motorcycle accident. According to a SJAFB news release, Senior Airman Earl Grover Jr., 23,  of the 4th Equipment Maintenance Squadron,...

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Schools invite public to discuss planning

Wayne County Public Schools is continuing its efforts to roll out its strategic plan and provide updates to the community on where the district is headed, with six sessions planned around the county. The district began the process last year,...

Entries sought for Veterans Day parade

Entries are still being sought for the annual Veterans Day Parade that will be held at 11 a.m. on Veterans Day in downtown Goldsboro. The parade will feature more than 100 groups, including bands, floats, motorcycle clubs, and marching...

UMO students receive FFA honors at national convention

MOUNT OLIVE -- Each year, the National FFA Organization honors FFA members who show the utmost dedication to the organization. The American FFA Degree is bestowed upon a select group of individuals for excelling over a period of years in...

Section of U.S. 70 in Johnston to be closed

RALEIGH - To allow workers to safely place girders for a new bridge over U.S. 70, the N.C. Department of Transportation will close a section of U.S. 70 near Pine Level in Johnston County overnight starting Tuesday, Nov. 1. Beginning...

Remaining inmates evacuated

Inmates that remained at Neuse Correctional Institution after a disturbance Sunday, Oct. 23, were evacuated Friday, according to a press release from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. Around 180 remaining inmates were moved to other prisons across the...

Pageanting with a purpose

Miss Seymour Johnson is a pageant with a purpose, says Brittany Harper, co-director with her mother, Tracy Atkins. In addition to recognizing young women of varying ages for the typical pageant criteria, it also is heavy on involving participants in...

Local dancer to go to Disney

Jessie Stewart has done some fun things in her young life. She took piano lessons for 10 years, dance for 12. She participated in StageStruck for eight years, her first show, "Peter Pan," was the year the Paramount Theatre...

Goldsboro Halloween hours

Halloween will be observed in the city of Goldsboro Monday from 6-8 p.m. City leaders are encouraging residents to take precautions to ensure safety during traditional trick-or-treat activities. Parents are asked to supervise children, confine trick-or-treating within their neighborhood and...

Empty Stocking Fund accepting donations

With water from Hurricane Matthew still receding, it is a difficult time to think about Christmas. But the holiday is approaching and the Empty Stocking Fund needs your help. The fund has created a holiday for needy children in Wayne...

City begins to clean up after catastrophic flood: Council approves $250,000 to pay for clean up

City of Goldsboro leaders were briefed Friday on hurricane disaster relief efforts and expenses related to the city's response to Hurricane Matthew. The city council approved using $250,000 from its general fund to pay for debris removal, emergency supplies,...

City begins to clean up after catastrophic flood: Christ in Action team works in Goldsboro

Ora Douglas stood in her back yard watching a Christ in Action team work to remove a 36-inch-diameter tree stump damaged by Hurricane Matthew. Without the recent help by the Mannassas, Va.-based, nonprofit ministry, Douglas would have likely paid as...

ECCC car show slated for Nov. 5

GOLDSBORO - Chevrolet of Goldsboro and Eastern Carolina Corvette Club will hold a 22nd Annual Veteran's Day Car Show on Saturday, Nov. 5, starting at 10 a.m. The awards ceremony will begin at 3 p.m. All proceeds from the car...

First African Baptist Church plans bus trip to game

NCCU v. N.C. A&T A bus trip to the North Carolina Central-N.C. A&T football game on Nov. 19 will leave from First African Baptist Church at 11 a.m. General Admission ticket and roundtrip bus fare are $65.00. Money is due...

Stein eyes state's top law enforcement post

With North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper racing for the governor's mansion, the seat he is vacating is up for grabs. Democrat Josh Stein is reaching for it. Stein stopped in Goldsboro Tuesday to meet with the Wayne County...

Award hopeful inspires youth

Alando Mitchell, founder of A Drummers World, was recently nominated for a Lamplighter award for his service with the organization. Lamplighter awards are designed to acknowledge and honor individuals and organizations who are "lighting the path" for others through...

25 indicted for variety of offenses

The U.S. Department of Justice indicted 25 people from six eastern North Carolina counties, including one man from Dudley, on charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, continuing criminal enterprise, money laundering and various firearm offenses . According to...

Shots fired had no ties to murder

Shots fired into a house and additional reports of shots fired bookended the Friday morning murder of 21-year-old Shai Taylor Valentine but were not connected, according to the Goldsboro Police Department. The incidents happened at 10:30 p.m. Thursday, and...

Friday, October 28, 2016

Neuse Correctional Institution fully evacuated

Inmates that remained at Neuse Correctional Institution after a disturbance Oct. 23, were evacuated today, according to a press release from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. Around 180 remaining inmates were moved to other prisons across the state,...

Man shot in scuffle with officer

Authorities are investigating a breaking and entering in Dudley Thursday night that ended with one person being shot by the Wayne Community College Police Chief Willie Lee Brinson and another being arrested.According to a press release, Brinson found two men...

City residents begin process of recovery

Alfred Williams stood looking over his household belongings stored under a carport due to feet-deep floodwaters that damaged his South John Street home. Williams, who is being helped by the North Carolina Baptist Men, is staying in a local...

Sheriff: Incident could've escalated

Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce said Sunday night's disturbance at Neuse Correctional Institution could have escalated into a full-scale riot if law enforcement agencies had not made a show of force. Pierce said SWAT teams -- with both lethal...

Man shot, killed on Astor Court

A 21-year-old man was shot and killed around 1 a.m. today in the 100 block of Astor Court. Police responded to a shots fired call and found Shai Taylor Valentine lying unresponsive behind the apartments. He was pronounced dead...

Bobby Denning dies at age 78

MOUNT OLIVE -- George Robert "Bobby" Denning is being remembered today as a remarkable man who overcame physical disabilities to become one of Wayne County's most successful businessmen. He is remembered as well for all that he has done...

AT&T call center closes after flood damage

Hurricane-related flood damage and declining business led to a company decision to permanently close the AT&T call center, on U.S. 117 South, and lay off nearly 95 employees. The center, at 2441 U.S. 117, sustained severe flood damage and...

La Cuata in Dudley robbed at gunpoint

A man stole $200 at gunpoint from La Cuata Mexican Restaurant in Dudley Wednesday morning. According to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, a 6-foot-tall, 200-pound black man walked into the restaurant around 11:30 a.m. Wednesday...

Police investigate early-morning shooting death

A 21-year-old was shot and killed around 1 a.m. in the 100 block of Astor Court. Police responded to a shots fired call and found Shai Taylor Valentine lying unresponsive behind the apartments. He was pronounced dead at the scene....

Thursday, October 27, 2016

Aycock eligibility at issue

The Charles B. Aycock Golden Falcons football team is facing a potential fine and vacating of some -- or all -- of its wins this season due to having an ineligible player on its roster. An investigation started when the...

WATCH golf tournament raises $125,000

The biggest fundraiser for WATCH, its annual golf tournament, raised more than $125,000 and may have been spurred on in part by an embattled year with the county commission to obtain county funds. At its quarterly meeting of the board...

Trump stumps in Kinston

KINSTON -- An enthusiastic crowd of hundreds stood near the runway at the Kinston Regional Jetport Wednesday evening to hear presidential candidate Donald Trump speak about employment and the military. "We're going to bring back your jobs that have...

Complaint against Sleep Inn 'unfounded'

MOUNT OLIVE -- A price-gouging complaint against the Sleep Inn is expected to be ruled as "unfounded." "After reviewing the complaint it appears that it will be unfounded," Julia White of the N.C. Attorney General's office said this morning. "They...

Authorities investigate 'disturbance'

A multi-agency investigation into a disturbance at Neuse Correctional Institution Sunday night is under way, and new details on the incident remain scant. The disturbance resulted in at least two assaults, two fires being set at the prison and...

Historic farm days

LAGRANGE -- The 10th annual Historic Farm Days will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28 and 29. Sponsored by the Antique Tractor Club of the Carolinas, the event will be held...

Council to talk recovery efforts

The Goldsboro City Council will meet Friday afternoon to discuss the city's recovery efforts and related expenses in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. The city council will meet at 3 p.m. in the second-floor conference room in the City Hall...

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Teen being treated for Lyme disease, mold toxicity

Mary Lindsey Edwards was one sick girl. Doctors now say the 18-year-old's problems -- she has been diagnosed with Lyme disease and mold toxicity, along with co-infections that sent her to more than 30 physicians -- could have begun...

Firemen wear pink in October

Even firemen wear pink. The Goldsboro Fire Department has proudly worn the fourth edition of pink shirts for the month of October -- to raise money for breast cancer awareness. "Fighting more than just fires" is printed on the...

Crowd excited to see Clinton speak

From diehard Democrats to Republicans, the people waiting in line to see former President Bill Clinton on Tuesday were excited to hear what he had to say. That excitement and undercurrents of optimism set the overall tone of the...

Former president makes stop in city

They came by the hundreds. Throngs filled the John Street parking lot Tuesday afternoon; some carried signs others brandished cell phones. They'd come to hear a seasoned orator and to experience his trademark personable style of campaigning. In both...

More locations to open for voting

Nearly 6,500 have cast ballots through Tuesday at the one-stop early voting location at the Wayne County Board of Elections office, 209 S. William St. The site opened Oct. 20, and five additional sites will open at 9 a.m....

State recognizes two schools in county for graduation rates

On Tuesday the N.C. Department of Public Instruction recognized districts and schools with the highest graduation rates in 2016, with two Wayne County Public Schools high schools among them. The state acknowledged schools with 100 percent graduation rates, with...

Insurance, federal aid should cover repairs to vehicles hit by storm

RALEIGH -- Anyone whose automobiles were damaged or destroyed by flooding from Hurricane Matthew may be eligible for help to repair or replace their vehicles. The first step should be for the vehicle owner to check auto insurance policy...

Public works director says he is moving on

Goldsboro Public Works Director Jose Martinez will end his three-year career in the city after accepting a similar post in Apex. Martinez, the city's public works director since April 2013, will be the public works and transportation director for the...

Task force checks

On an unassuming intersection of road just outside of Mount Olive, coming into view just as cars travel out of the long, low-slung curve in the road -- sits a DWI check point that's been set up by the Wayne...

Islamic group hosts events

The Wayne County Islamic Society is conducting a set of events to convey to the Wayne County community that it shares its objective of developing a stronger, more united community.  These events are a clothing and food giveaway on...

Tuesday, October 25, 2016

To keep warm

Winter is coming soon, and some people in Wayne County don't even have a warm coat to keep the chill out. To help, First Baptist Church is holding its annual Warm the Word event Nov. 5 at 8 a.m....

Two are arrested for carjacking

Police say two 18-year-olds pointed a gun at a woman's head and forced her from her car Sunday. Both men are in custody. Jose Avendano-Ortiz and Erik Penaloza, both of 105 Logan's Run Lane, Albertson, were arrested and charged...

Bill Clinton to stop in city

Former President Bill Clinton will make a campaign stop in Goldsboro today at 2 p.m. as part of an eastern North Carolina bus tour in support of his wife, Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton. Clinton will launch the "Stronger...

Democratic leader claims misconduct at polling site

A state Democratic leader claims she was asked to leave the Wayne County Board of Elections early voting site after being confronted by the director. Linda Wilkins-Daniels, president of the African-American Caucus of the state Democratic Party, said she visited...

Price gouging accusations probed by attorney general

RALEIGH -- State Attorney General Roy Cooper wants answers from a rental car business that allegedly price gouged consumers in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. "Communities across North Carolina are working to recover from this devastating storm and we need...

Blood collections scheduled

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood before the holiday season is in full swing. A seasonal decline often occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day when donors get busy with festivities. However, the need for blood...

Monday, October 24, 2016

Bill Clinton to visit Goldsboro

Former President Bill Clinton will make a campaign stop in Goldsboro at 2 p.m. Tuesday in the parking lot next to the Wayne County Democratic Party headquarters building, 138 N. Center St. Doors will open at 1 p.m. and Clinton...

Theater offers free tickets

The Paramount Theatre is offering free tickets to the Parsons Dance on Friday, Oct. 28, to anyone who has been affected by Hurricane Matthew. The show will be held at 7:30 p.m. The city of Goldsboro and the Paramount Theatre...

Disturbance at prison results in evacuation

Officials stopped short of calling Sunday's incident a riot, but confirmed today that approximately 500 inmates were evacuated from Neuse Correctional Institution after a disturbance Sunday evening resulted in two people being injured and fires being set inside the prison....

Candidate cries foul over sample ballot

Sample ballots checking the names of Democratic candidates, but excluding district court judge candidate Curtis Stackhouse, are being handed out at polling places in Wayne, Lenoir and Greene counties. The sample ballots are being paid for by Clifton Broadhurst, who...

Youth discuss tone, social media in 2016 election season

Madeline Clark remembers her government teacher in high school talking a lot about politics. "It was more than just an interest -- it's what I wanted to do for my career," she said. "I see it as more than what...

Officials: Disturbance, not riot, leads to Neuse Correctional Institution evacuation

Officials stopped short of calling Sunday's incident a riot, but confirmed Monday that approximately 500 inmates were evacuated from Neuse Correctional Institution after a disturbance Sunday evening resulted in two people being injured and fires being set inside the prison....

Sunday, October 23, 2016

'Disturbance' at Neuse Correctional -- at least two injured

UPDATE -- A N.C. Department of Public Safety news release issued at 10:16 p.m. Sunday said the disturbance at the Neuse Correctional Institution has been brought under control.According to the release, a small group of inmates started two separate fires...

Art takes its place

A 14-foot-tall steel-crafted dinosaur is one of several new public art pieces now on display along Center Street in downtown Goldsboro. A celebration of the new artwork took place Friday, following the recent installation of the sculptures in two Center...

Embers to perform for Empty Stocking Fund

As part of the drive to raise money for the Empty Stocking fund, The Embers Band will be in concert in Goldsboro, donating part of the proceeds from the show to the benefit. The fund provides needy children with toys...

Council member Antonio Williams past due on taxes

Goldsboro Councilman Antonio Williams is facing foreclosure on a downtown property he owns after failing to pay property taxes since 2011. Williams, the council's District 1 representative, also has a 2015 court judgment requiring he pay a Currituck County...

WAGES offers clothes, food to hurricane victims

WAGES opened its doors again on Friday to give away more than just clothes. Scheduled for spring and fall only, the clothing giveaway broke the rules from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and offered items such as diapers and...

Man fights off armed attackers

A man walking in the 500 block of North Claiborne Street was allegedly attacked by three men in an attempted robbery Thursday evening. The incident took place at about 6 p.m., according to the police report. The victim reported to...

Ah, chili is in the air

It had to be the knees that made the difference, joked a kilt-wearing Bill Royall after the First Presbyterian Church's Hot Scots team swept the competition in Saturday's 10th annual Really Chili Challenge. The team won best booth, the...

Jones guilty on all counts

WILMINGTON -- Senior Resident Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II, District 8-B, was found guilty in federal court Friday on all three counts of an indictment charging him with bribing an officer to get copies of text messages...

University of Mount Olive to observe exercise month

MOUNT OLIVE -- In honor of Exercise is Medicine Month at the University of Mount Olive, health and physical education majors are holding the Second Annual Trojan Health Awareness Day on Tuesday, October 25. Students from Carver Elementary, Southern Wayne...

Scores take part in walk against Alzheimer's

They walked for their husband, or wife, their parents or grandparents. Some walked for other relatives or friends, others simply walked as a show of support. Regardless of whom they were walking for, participants in Saturday morning's 14th annual...

Red Cross needs volunteers

The American Red Cross is opening a volunteer intake center in Goldsboro beginning Monday. It will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers are needed to work in the Red Cross warehouse, distribute cleaning items...

Public's help sought in identifying driver

The state State Highway Patrol is seeking the public's help in helping identify the vehicle and driver who died in a fiery crash on I-95 near mile-marker 95 just outside the city limits of Smithfield on Wednesday, Oct. 19. The...

Art gathering coming to Wayne County Museum

A local designer will host the first Masters of the Arts Past, Present and Future Exposition at the Wayne County Museum on Oct. 29. The event will include participation by nearly a dozen designers, artists and creators of locally...

Lost a pet during Hurricane Matthew? Try contacting your local animal shelter

RALEIGH - State officials are advising people trying to recover pets they lost in Hurricane Matthew to visit their county's animal shelter. Hundreds of pets have been rescued and housed in shelters since Hurricane Matthew impacted the state Oct. 8....

In wake of hurricane, DMV to waive fees in some counties

RALEIGH --In an effort to provide relief to residents impacted by Hurricane Matthew, Gov. Pat McCrory has directed the Division of Motor Vehicles to temporarily waive certain fees for customers in counties affected by Hurricane Matthew. ""We are committed to...

Goldsboro native in new movie

Goldsboro native Mona Parks recently appeared on the silver screen as an "N-TEK agent" in the action film "Max Steel," which released in theaters Oct. 14. Ms. Parks has been acting since 1987, and received a degree in drama from...

Free dog food at shelter

Wayne County Animal Control received a donation of six pallets of dry dog food. The shelter will be giving away the dry dog food to flood victims with proof of address while supplies last at 1600 Clingman St....

Entries sought for city parade

Entries are being sought for the annual Goldsboro Christmas Parade. The parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 4 p.m. in downtown Goldsboro. The Jaycees took the lead for the parade for many years. Three years ago, the...

Duplin to honor Korean War dead

KENANSVILLE -- Duplin County and the Duplin County Historical Society will unveil and dedicate a granite monument as a permanent memorial to the men from Duplin County who died in the Korean War. The ceremony will be held at 2:00...

County waives some fees due to hurricane

The Wayne County Board of Commissioners have unanimously waived the following fees: * Fees at the landfill for Hurricane Matthew and the subsequent flooding related solid waste for the next 45 days; * Waived fees in the environmental health area...

Condemned homes to have electricity cut off

More than 300 homes temporarily condemned by the city of Goldsboro will have electricity disconnected early this week due to liability and safety concerns. The homes, which sustained significant flood damage from Hurricane Matthew, have been inspected and found to...

Businesses help those displaced by flood

As people across the community continue to help residents displaced from flood-damaged homes, several downtown business owners are joining the effort. Kalilah Mischeaux, owner of The Village Rising, and Councilman Antonio Williams and Yvonnia Moore, owners of The Ice Storm,...

Shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse are being collected

Christmas is closer than you think and it's already the time of the year to be preparing shoeboxes of gifts for needy children around the world through the Samaritan's Purse outreach organization. Every year, millions of shoeboxes are packed full...

Saturday, October 22, 2016

Homeowner defends his family, kills intruder

An early morning home invasion in the county resulted in a man's death Saturday, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. A man whos identity has not yet been released broke into an occupied residence while dressed in all balck...

Friday, October 21, 2016

Duke Progress to cut power to condemned homes

More than 300 homes temporarily condemned by the city of Goldsboro will have electricity disconnected early next week due to liability and safety concerns. The homes, which sustained significant flood damage from Hurricane Matthew, have been inspected and found to...

Ready to swing and slide

CALYPSO -- The dedication ceremony for the new playground at Albritton Park was delayed a week because of Hurricane Matthew. But rather than make children wait to enjoy the new playground, especially in the aftermath of devastation caused by the...

First United Methodist Church Pumpkin Patch opens

The  First United Methodist Church's Pumpkin Patch opened Monday and will run through Monday, Oct. 31, in the open area in front of the Sleep Inn on N.C. 55 West. The cost will depend on the size and will range...

Arnold O. Jones found guilty

WILMINGTON - Wayne County Resident Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II was found guilty today on all three counts of a federal indictment charging him with bribing an officer to get copies of text messages between his wife and...

Hurricane victm's car stolen, again

Police say a man stole a woman's car while she was staying at a Wayne County shelter. The victim reported the theft to the Goldsboro Police Department last Wednesday. She said her house was flooded after Hurricane Matthew struck Wayne...

Man fights off would-be robbers armed with a knife

A man walking in the 500 block of North Claiborne Street was allegedly attacked by three men in an attempted robbery Thursday evening. The incident took place at about 6 p.m., according to the police report. The victim reported to...

Residents can replace vital documents at register of deeds

Wayne County residents can replace vital documents lost or destroyed because of Hurricane Matthew through the Wayne County Register of Deeds office. "To the citizens of Wayne County, my thoughts and prayers are with you in the wake of...

Jury ponders Jones bribery case

WILMINGTON -- Closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense were heard Thursday in the fourth day of the Arnold O. Jones II trial after the government rested its case against Jones on allegations of bribery. The government gave...

Schools announce schedule changes

On the heels of students returning to classes Thursday, Wayne County Public Schools made several announcements regarding changes to the calendar, make-up days and relief efforts for those affected by the storm. Staff and students have been out of...

Disaster food stamp program to begin

Disaster Food and Nutrition Services (food stamp) applications are scheduled to be taken for five days beginning Saturday for people who lost food because of Hurricane Matthew. The program is for people who do not currently receive food stamps. The...

One-stop voting begins

Early voting began Thursday at 8 a.m. at the Wayne County Board of Elections, and 300 people completed their ballots in the first two hours. But Dane Beavers, the board's director, said it was a low early turnout compared...

School phones fixed

Issues with phone service at eight schools have been resolved, Wayne County Public Schools officials said Thursday. The problem, the result of an AT&T equipment site being damaged by flooding, had resulted in all of the Eastern Wayne and Spring...

Dancing Stars postponed until January

Dancing Stars of Wayne County has been rescheduled due to the recent hurricane and subsequent flooding, organizers announced. The 2016 event, originally planned for Friday, Nov. 4, will now be held on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at the Paramount Theatre....

Aycock Tractor open house

Aycock Tractor Co. invites the public to its open house today from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. The company, located at 304 U.S. 117 South, suffered water damages from the hurricane, but owner Russell Aycock and his wife, Paula, are...

Food loss replacement benefits available for people not already receiving food stamps

Disaster Food and Nutrition Services (food stamp) applications are scheduled to be taken for five days beginning Saturday for people who lost food because of Hurricane Matthew. The program is for people who do not currently receive food stamps. The...

Thursday, October 20, 2016

Early voting begins today

One-stop early voting began today at 8 a.m. at the Wayne County Board of Elections office, 209 S. William St., and will continue through Nov. 5 for the Tuesday, Nov. 8, general election. One-stop voting will begin Oct. 27...

Schools focus on flood stress

Getting schools back to normal is easier said than done, as officials have been preparing for students to return today. Stress is a big concern, and the variables are plentiful, for students as well as staff, Ken Derksen, director...

Commissioners pass ordinance with a little noise from public

What exactly is an unruly bird? Is it a rooster crowing in the morning? And if unruly birds are among noisy disturbances being singled out in Wayne County's new noise ordinance, then why aren't the loud pickup trucks that...

Tanker overturns

A tanker truck hauling methanol ran into a ditch at the intersection of N.C. 111 South and Vann Smith Road just before 8 p.m. Wednesday after the truck's axle broke. The wreck took crews 12 hours to secure and clear,...

Judge denies mistrial motion

WILMINGTON -- A motion by Arnold O. Jones II's defense attorneys to declare a mistrial in the case against the superior court judge on bribery charges was denied Wednesday as testimony entered its third day. The motion came after...

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Hurricane recovery efforts continue

For the next 45 days as hurricane recovery efforts continue in Wayne County, fees normally charged by the county for septic tanks, building permits and for the landfill will be waived. Also, a FEMA team arrived Monday and set...

Jones' trial enters day two

WILMINGTON -- Several witnesses for the government took the stand Tuesday in the second day of the trial of Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II. Jones is accused of bribing a Federal Bureau of Investigations task force officer...

FEMA arrives in county

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Center opened today at noon at the W.A. Foster Center, 1012 S. John St. FEMA has staff that will be available to talk to residents if they experienced loss or damage...

Nutrition benefits extended to Oct. 28

Food and Nutrition Services beneficiaries in eastern North Carolina who lost food because of Hurricane Matthew now have an additional 10 days to request replacement benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended the period for Food and Nutrition...

Health Department participates in low-cost exam program for women

The North Carolina Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program, or BCCCP, provides free or low-cost breast and cervical screenings for women who qualify, and the Wayne County Health Department is a participant in the program. Some restrictions apply, said...

Big Rock Blue Marlin donates $100,000 to University of Mount Olive

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has donated $100,000 to the University of Mount Olive for its track and field/lacrosse complex currently under construction. The gift will include naming rights to the adjacent lacrosse field house. Once completed, the...

Two men charged in July thefts

Two men arrested recently in Onslow County were also charged Monday afternoon for allegedly committing larceny in Wayne County three months ago. Edward Christopher Lancaster Jr., 20, of 462 Artis Road in Pikeville, and Lee Roy Darden, 38, whose...

Fremont storm issues minimal

The town of Fremont made it through Hurricane Matthew with relatively little trouble, largely thanks to the work of their police force, fire department and public works personnel, town officials and staff said at the monthly Board of Aldermen...

Crime of the week

On Sunday, Oct. 16, employees of the Subway located at 101 W. Patetown Road reported that at approximately 11:15 a.m. a black man began pacing outside of the store for approximately 10 minutes, he then came into the store, jumped...

FEMA arrives in county

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Center opened today at noon at the W.A. Foster Center, 1012 S. John St. FEMA has staff that will be available to talk to residents if they experienced loss or damage...

Nutrition benefits extended to Oct. 28

Food and Nutrition Services beneficiaries in eastern North Carolina who lost food because of Hurricane Matthew now have an additional 10 days to request replacement benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has extended the period for Food and Nutrition...

Health Department participates in low-cost exam program for women

The North Carolina Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program, or BCCCP, provides free or low-cost breast and cervical screenings for women who qualify, and the Wayne County Health Department is a participant in the program. Some restrictions apply, said...

Jones' trial enters day two

WILMINGTON -- Several witnesses for the government took the stand Tuesday in the second day of the trial of Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II. Jones is accused of bribing a Federal Bureau of Investigations task force officer...

Hurricane recovery efforts continue

For the next 45 days as hurricane recovery efforts continue in Wayne County, fees normally charged by the county for septic tanks, building permits and for the landfill will be waived. Also, a FEMA team arrived Monday and set...

Big Rock Blue Marlin donates $100,000 to University of Mount Olive

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has donated $100,000 to the University of Mount Olive for its track and field/lacrosse complex currently under construction. The gift will include naming rights to the adjacent lacrosse field house. Once completed, the...

Two men charged in July thefts

Two men arrested recently in Onslow County were also charged Monday afternoon for allegedly committing larceny in Wayne County three months ago. Edward Christopher Lancaster Jr., 20, of 462 Artis Road in Pikeville, and Lee Roy Darden, 38, whose...

Fremont storm issues minimal

The town of Fremont made it through Hurricane Matthew with relatively little trouble, largely thanks to the work of their police force, fire department and public works personnel, town officials and staff said at the monthly Board of Aldermen...

Crime of the week

On Sunday, Oct. 16, employees of the Subway located at 101 W. Patetown Road reported that at approximately 11:15 a.m. a black man began pacing outside of the store for approximately 10 minutes, he then came into the store, jumped...

Fees waived for hurricane recovery process

For the next 45 days as hurricane recovery efforts continue in Wayne County, fees normally charged by the county for septic tanks, building permits and for the landfill will be waived. Also, a FEMA team arrived Monday and set up...

Fees waived for hurricane recovery process

For the next 45 days as hurricane recovery efforts continue in Wayne County, fees normally charged by the county for septic tanks, building permits and for the landfill will be waived. Also, a FEMA team arrived Monday and set up...

Tuesday, October 18, 2016

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center opens at W.A. Foster Center

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Recovery Center opened today at noon at the W.A. Foster Center, 1012 S. John St.FEMA has staff that will be available to talk to Wayne County if they experienced loss or damage as...

Schools prepare to open Thursday

Wayne County public schools are making preparations to resume later this week, with the transportation department addressing roadway concerns and "displaced students" in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. County officials, meanwhile, announced late Monday that they are in the process...

Some coal ash gets in Neuse

Duke Energy engineers have confirmed that some material, including coal ash, eroded and was carried by floodwaters outside one of the berms of an inactive basin at the H.F. Lee plant just west of Goldsboro. Historically high floodwaters in...

Judge Arnold O. Jones' trial begins

WILMINGTON -- Opening arguments from both the defense and prosecution were heard Monday during the first day of the trial of Wayne County Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II. The three-count indictment against Jones alleges that he promised...

Piggly Wiggly donating food to needy

KINSTON -- The Piggly Wiggly chain of supermarkets is donating multiple tractor trailers worth of canned goods, water, personal supplies, and other food products to benefit the victims of the flood in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew. The amount of...

City residents told to heed signs on homes

As the city of Goldsboro residents return to their homes after the flood waters have receded they may find temporary condemned signs. This means the residents can repair their homes. It does not mean the home is non-repairable and...

Volunteers work for recovery

Sherry Granberry didn't intend to spend nearly an entire week volunteering at the Wayne County Emergency Operations Center. As an early childhood education instructor at Wayne Community College, she isn't beholden to any sort of government agency taking part...

Monday, October 17, 2016

Water in rivers receding slowly

As of early Sunday morning, four areas remain in a major flooding condition as river levels begin to drop. According to predictive analysis by North Carolina Emergency Management officials, all rivers are forecast to be below flood stage by Oct....

Public may sound off about noise rule

Wayne County residents Tuesday morning will have the opportunity to make some noise over proposed changes to a proposed county ordinance. The county seeks to replace its current vague, three-paragraph and basically unenforceable ordinance with one that includes civil citations...

Alzheimer's walk scheduled for this Saturday

The Duplin/Greene/Wayne County AlzNC Walk, scheduled for Saturday in downtown Goldsboro, will still be held, organizers said. It may be a little different this year -- there may be no physical awards presented -- but the spirit and the tone...

Farm family loses crops, home in flood

Wayne Mitchell stands on the furled and creaking floorboards of the house that built him. His feet are planted firmly on the wood that is now curling up toward the sky at its edges. The carpet has been ripped out...

Agriculture commissioner says it's too early to assess

It looks as if the ocean has come to Raleigh. That, state Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said, is the first thing he thought of Monday while flying over flood-ravaged eastern North Carolina. "'Oh, my God' is what I said," Troxler...

Officials say damage to farms 'catastrophic'

Catastrophic. Monumental. Incalculable. That is how agricultural officials are describing Hurricane Matthew's impact on Wayne County's leading economic engine even though it will be weeks -- if not months -- before the full scope of the devastation is known...

Flooding cleanup tips offered

RALEIGH -- When Hurricane Matthew's floodwaters recede in eastern North Carolina, homeowners should assume that everything touched by flood water is contaminated and will need to be disinfected. Most household cleaning products are sufficient; however, some precautions are necessary. Flood...

Art of Fashion Show has been postponed

In support of our community and our designers, the Arts Council of Wayne County is postponing the Art of Fashion Show originally scheduled at Herman Park Center on Oct. 22. The new Art of Fashion Show date is Saturday,...

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Animal evacuation

Kembelyn Salinas of the Wayne County Animal Adoption and Education Center holds one of the dogs being evacuated out of the county early Saturday morning to make room for pets displaced by the flooding caused by Hurricane Matthew. The dogs...

Wayne Community College resumes classes Thursday

Wayne Community College will resume classes Thursday, Oct. 20 in line with Wayne County Public Schools, according to a WCC press release. The school will reopen to students Thursday, following two optional employee work days on Tuesday and Wednesday....

Hospital prepared for storm, flooding

Wayne Memorial Hospital weathered the storm better than most -- a combination of staff pulling together and a good generating system keeping services running. Jeff Brogneaux, emergency preparedness coordinator, admitted it was a bit hectic at times. In the...

Price-gouging law in effect in N.C.

Raleigh: North Carolina's law against price gouging is now in effect for all 100 counties for all goods and services, Attorney General Roy Cooper said Friday morning. "Most businesses treat their customers fairly, in good times and bad, but some...

Landfill fee waived for storm waste

Power has been restored to 12 of the 13 county sanitation convenience sites. Residents are still being asked not to bring their recycling to any convenience sites until further notice, as recycling cannot be picked up by the county's recycling...

Kitty Askins reopens at O'Berry

Kitty Askins is open for business as usual, just at a different location, officials said Friday. The hospice center was another victim of Hurricane Matthew last weekend, when an estimated 17 inches of water entered the building via air...

Hunters remindeded to wear blaze orange as seasons begin

RALEIGH -- The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission's "Home from the Hunt" safety campaign reminds hunters to comply with blaze orange requirements as firearms seasons commence across the state. Hunters in North Carolina are required to wear a blaze orange-colored garment,...

Health officials remind citizens to 'tip and toss'

RALEIGH -- Public health officials are reminding citizens to "tip and toss" outdoor water containers after the heavy rains from Hurricane Matthew. Standing water creates a breeding site for many types of mosquitoes. Disposing of standing water is one of...

Church in Fremont distributes water, food

As Wayne County recovers from the devastation of Hurricane Matthew, people in communities like Fremont are doing what they can to help those in need. The First Missionary Baptist Church at 410 S. Goldsboro St. in Fremont held a...

County awaits the arrival of FEMA

The full extent of the damage in the Wayne County can be seen inch by inch as the Neuse River recedes, and now many storm and flood victims are waiting to begin the recovery. On Thursday, leaders from Pikeville,...

Empty Stocking welcomes donations

The fund provides toys, clothes and even a party for them. But it all depends on you. Generous donors are the backbone of the fund and The News-Argus simply serves as the collection point for the thousands of dollars that...

Groups open donation centers for storm victims

The needs in Wayne County are still great almost a week after Hurricane Matthew hit. Some are without power. And many have homes that were flooded and they can't back into them. To help the hurricane victims, several groups in...

Duke Energy officials put plans in place to repair basin breach

Duke Energy officials said that plans are in place, and are being validated by outside engineers, to make necessary repairs to a breach in the earthen cooling pond wall at the H.F. Lee Plant. Work will proceed once flooding subsides...

Water boil advisory rescinded for multiple Wayne water districts

The water boil advisories and water system pressure advisories have been rescinded for Wayne water districts, which include Belfast-Patetown Sanitary District, Eastern Wayne Sanitary District, Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District, Northwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Village of Walnut Creek, Town of...

Loss of Seven Springs?: Flood victims doubt return

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Barry Guevremont sleeps inside a box truck now. He uses his daughter's bed, tucked behind a tarp in the back of the truck that separates him from the outside world. His box truck is parked on some...

Collision occurs near Texas Roadhouse Friday

A wreck outside of the Texas Roadhouse restaurant at 600 N. Berkeley Blvd. left one woman shaken up but otherwise uninjured Friday afternoon, said Goldsboro police and an eyewitness. The wreck occurred at around 4:10 p.m. when a woman...

Susan G. Komen Foundation to give NCCU $405,000 for breast canc

DURHAM -- The Susan G. Komen Foundation will provide $405,000 to North Carolina Central University to establish a graduate training and public health initiative focused on breast cancer disparities. NCCU professors Kevin P. Williams, Ph.D., Jodie Fleming Ph.D., Xioahe Yang,...

Nickels for Know-How vote Nov. 1

The Wayne County Nickels for Know-How referendum will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1. The referendum is being held to let users and producers of feed or fertilizer decide if they wish to continue the self-assessment program that has been...

Mayor's committee

Mayor's Committee The Mayor's Committee for Persons with Disabilities will hold its Annual Mayor's Award Luncheon on Thursday at noon at Herman Park Center. People can buy tickets, which cost $12, at the event door. City Councilman Mark Stevens will...

Carriers make efforts to deliver information to flood victims

As she neared the first stop, she saw a pine tree lying across the road. She said they waited until people walked out to the street and began making a path in a neighbor's yard. "We had to go around...

Drop off points for donations remain

The needs in Wayne County are still great almost a week after Hurricane Matthew hit. Some are without power. And many have homes that were flooded and they can't back into them. To help the hurricane victims, several groups in...

U.S. 117 is now open

Traffic is now flowing in all four lanes, both north and south on U.S. Highway 117, officials confirmed Saturday. The main connector between Goldsboro and the southern end of Wayne County had been closed for several days due to the record...

Friday, October 14, 2016

Water advisory dropped in two areas

A boil-water advisory for several Wayne County water districts has been lifted as of 4 p.m. Friday. Customers serviced by the Southwestern Wayne Sanitary District and Southern Wayne Sanitary District remain under a boil-water advisory until further notice, according to...

Outages linger in hardest hit areas

Tri-County Electric visited some of the worst-flooded areas of Wayne County Friday to assess damage to the electric system and determine whether repairs can be made. Close to 500 customers are still without power, primarily in the Mar-Mac, Seven Springs...

Gift wrapped in kindness

All Shy'Miya McGee wanted for her birthday was a party.And that's what the 7-year-old got on Friday when a teenager at the shelter befriended her. "It kind of broke my heart when she told me it was her birthday, and...

Shootings leave three people injured

There were two shootings Thursday night that left three people injured, according to police reports. The first happened just before 7 p.m. in the 1200 block of North Greenleaf Street. According to the report, Edward Earl Johnson, 22, of...

Today is the deadline to register to vote

Today at 5 p.m. is the deadline to register to vote in the Tuesday, Nov. 8, general election. The deadline for civilian absentee by mail requests is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1. One-stop early voting begins Thursday, Oct. 20,...

Schools to stay closed until next week

Wayne County Public Schools superintendent Dr. Michael Dunsmore is working to get schools back open after Hurricane Matthew -- even if it's on a staggered schedule. Officials announced late Thursday afternoon that schools will remain closed through mid-week. Schools will...

Paw N Hand works to rescue animals

When Rico was rescued from his flooded home off Brock Street Thursday, he had just a tiny piece of dry ground he had been living on. He had not eaten since Saturday, and he was dehydrated. If he had not...

Meals on Wheels struggles to deliver

WAGES Meals on Wheels volunteers could not safely deliver meals to the homebound Monday and Tuesday because of downed trees and power lines and flooding. They were able to deliver some meals Wednesday. "We can't get across the river...

Governor tours disaster areas

North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory dropped into Goldsboro by helicopter Thursday to take a brief tour of several flooded areas just outside the city's core. McCrory was escorted in a car driven by Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce, stopping...

Livelihoods threatened as businesses look at losses

Andrew Jernigan walked through his family's furniture store showroom Wednesday looking over stacked couches, loveseats, chairs and wood furniture wrapped in plastic. Even though efforts were made to save the merchandise shortly after Hurricane Matthew, it wasn't enough. The...

Wayne Community College pushes back 'Fall II' registration

Wayne Community College, closed all week in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, has also pushed back dates for its "Fall II" condensed college credit courses. Students can sign up and pay tuition and fees on Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 17-18,...

Storm causes million gallon sewer spill in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- Up to one million gallons of untreated wastewater spilled over the weekend from the town's wastewater treatment plant. The spill was the result of Hurricane Matthew's torrential rains, subsequent flooding and loss of power at the...

Power outages remain in some areas

According to a Duke Energy Progress map of power outages, as of Thursday at 2 p.m. there were 1,610 outages remaining in Wayne County. Additionally, press release from Bob Kornegay, manager of marketing and member services for Tri-County Electric,...

Motorcycle rider injured in accident with dump truck

A man on a motorcycle laid his bike over and slid under a dump truck after allegedly not seeing a stop sign at the corner of George Street and Spruce Street on Wednesday around 2 p.m. The motorcyclist, Damon Rhodes,...

Free pet food

Diamonds in the Ruff Canine Rescue is helping victims of Hurricane Matthew by distributing free dog and cat food Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Pet Supplies Plus. Anyone wanting to make...

Art installation ceremony postponed

The city of Goldsboro's public art installation ceremony has been postponed until Friday, Oct. 21, at 1 p.m. The ceremony, delayed in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, will include words from public officials and others involved in adding art sculptures...

Pets rescued in flood need their families to find them

When Rico was rescued from his flooded home off Brock Street Thursday, he had just a tiny piece of dry ground he had been living on. He had not eaten since Saturday and he was dehydrated. If he had not...

State Emergency Response Team post-flooding tips

As flood waters begin to recede in some areas -- U.S. 117 is now open in both directions, single-lane only, on the northbound side of the highway -- the Governor's State Emergency Response Team has released some cleaning and safety...

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Outages starting to dwindle

According to a Duke Energy Progress map of outages, as of  Thursday at 2 p.m. there are 1,610 outages remaining in Wayne County. Additionally,  press release from Bob Kornegay, manager of marketing and member services for Tri-County Electric, said crews...

Repairs underway at H.F. Lee plant cooling pond

UPDATE -- Duke Energy officials said today that plans are in place, and are being validated by outside engineers, to make necessary repairs to a breach in the earthen cooling pond wall at the H.F. Lee Plant. Work will proceed...

Chiefs return home after combat mission

Six months ago, around 20 airmen from the 335th Fighter Squadron deployed to southwest Asia to join the fight against Islamic State. On Wednesday, friends and family welcomed those airmen home. A large group gathered at the Seymour Johnson...

United Way delivers meals to areas in need

United Way is helping with hurricane relief efforts by getting food out to first responders stationed throughout the county. "Part of United Way's desire to be a member of the community is finding out what the needs are in...

Grantham family loses home

GRANTHAM -- Renee Hinson's home on Hood Drive had been through Hurricane Floyd back in 1999, so she wasn't too worried when rumblings about Hurricane Matthew started. "All week we had been tracking the storm watch, tracking its progress,"...

Victims wait for water to recede

Thomas Waters stands at the edge of the high waters at Bunche Drive and Simpson Street. His hands are in his pockets; his toes near the floodwaters brought in from Hurricane Matthew and its aftermath. He's lived here for...

County sets up disaster relief center

Wayne County employees set up a disaster relief center inside the Wayne Center Wednesday, and they plan to open it to the public at the start of next week, said Department of Social Services Director Debra Jones. Jones, walking...

H.F. Lee basin breach minimal

Flooding along the Neuse River has receded just enough that floodwaters are no longer overflowing the earthen basin wall surrounding the cooling pond at the H.F. Lee Plant. However, water continues to enter over the spillway. But, that, too,...

Taste of Wayne is canceled

For the first time in its 26 years, the Taste of Wayne County has been canceled. "We canceled the 2016 Taste of Wayne because following Hurricane Matthew, a lot of our participants' personal home or business had suffered some...

Papa John's delivers to people at Herman Park

Papa John's delivered free pizzas to more than 1,500 people within two hours Wednesday at the Herman Park Center. Four days after Hurricane Matthew hit Wayne County, a long line of people who have no power or food waited at...

Missed school days might not have to be made up

Students in counties hit hardest by Hurricane Matthew, and the subsequent flooding, could potentially miss weeks of school that under normal circumstances would have to be made up. However, state Rep. Jimmy Dixon of Mount Olive Wednesday afternoon said...

Curfew is lifted

A mandatory curfew set for Wayne County and Goldsboro of 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in the wake of Hurricane Matthew has been lifted as of 6 p.m. today. Restaurants, taverns and other businesses are now allowed to sell alcohol...

Free water

J.B. Rhodes Funeral Home will be giving away 500 cases of water  Friday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home on Wayne Memorial Drive....

No collapse at H.F. Lee plant

Flooding along the Neuse River has receded just enough that flood waters are no longer overflowing the earthen basin wall surrounding the cooling pond at the H.F. Lee Plant. However, water continues to enter over the spillway. But, that, too,...

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Papa John's delivers on time to Wayne County

Papa John's delivered free pizzas to more than 1,500 people within two hours Wednesday at the Herman Park Center. Four days after Hurricane Matthew hit Wayne County, a long line of people who have no power or food waited at...

Break in basin wall at H.F. Lee plant

UPDATE -- County officials monitoring breach at H.F. Lee plant --A Wayne County press release at 3:02 p.m. said Emergency Services and "additional agencies" are monitoring the breach. The release also emphasized that the breach is at the plant's cooling...

Donations of items, money being accepted for flood victims

Donations to Hurricane Matthew flood victims are being accepted at Wayne Center, located at the corner of Chestnut and George streets between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.Items that are needed include personal hygeine products, non-perishable food items,...

Pumpkin Patch to grow funds for church's mission work

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Great Pumpkin from the "Peanuts" comic strip might not put in an appearance at the First United Methodist Church's Pumpkin Patch, but there will be plenty of pumpkins large and small to choose from. There are...

Power outages still impacting thousands

From staff reports DUDLEY --  As of 7 a.m. this  morning, Tri-County EMC  reported 3,000 outages mainly in the LaGrange area and a few more scattered across the system in areas of Genoa, Slick Rock Road of Seven Springs and...

Neuse breaks flooding record

The rain and wind from Hurricane Matthew are long gone -- but the Neuse River has spilled from its banks and has continued to rise since the storm blew away Sunday morning. Water is standing or rushing across roads...

Residents asked not to bring recycling

Wayne County residents are being asked not to bring their recycling to any of the county's 13 convenience sites until further notice. Eight of the sites are without power because of Hurricane Matthew and cannot compact household waste. This impacts...

Man dies by floodwaters

A 54-year-old man died in his truck after being carried away by floodwaters on Wayne Memorial Drive on Saturday night during Hurricane Matthew. The man was identified by police as Lemuel Frank Kornegay of Dudley. Kornegay is the first...

Woman dies in head-on collision in Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- A woman was killed when a vehicle she was in was struck head-on by a man who allegedly crossed the center line while driving drunk on Kelly Springs Road in Mount Olive Tuesday evening. Alyssa Lee...

County water boil advisory extended

A boil water advisory has been extended until further notice for all customers of Belfast-Patetown Sanitary District, Eastern Wayne Sanitary District, Northwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District, Southwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Fork Township Sanitary District, the towns...

Wayne declared disaster, relief efforts are underway

RALEIGH -- Wayne, Wilson, Johnston and Bertie counties will be able to apply for federal assistance to repair or rebuild homes damaged by the massive flooding caused by Hurricane Matthew. Homeowners and renters in those counties are now able...

Solid waste disposal delayed

Due to power issues, eight of the 13 solid waste convenience sites in Wayne County are without power, and therefore cannot compact waste. Because the sites cannot handle a large volume of waste, only household waste can be received....

Salvation Army provides meals to shelters

Hurricane Matthew may be gone, but life is far from being back to normal for its victims. To help people who are in shelters or in their homes with no power, the Salvation Army began providing hot meals Saturday...

Newspapers flown to southern part of county

From staff reports With the Neuse River cresting at 2 p.m. today and flooding intensifying throughout Wayne County, many people in the southern part of the county are cut off from information on the storm. Many in the Mount Olive...

Floodwater is not safe, exercise precaution

When returning to your home after a hurricane or flood, be aware that flood water may contain sewage. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety offers the following ways to protect yourself and your family by following these steps:...

Some open in wake of flood

Stores, restaurants and gas stations throughout Goldsboro continued to reopen Tuesday following citywide power losses and other complications from Hurricane Matthew. Many businesses flashed "open" signs or propped their doors open to signify the reopenings Tuesday afternoon. Some businesses remain...

Mount Olive man charged in death of Virginia woman

A woman was killed when a vehicle she was in was struck head-on by a man who allegedly crossed the center line while driving drunk on Kelly Springs Road in Mount Olive Tuesday evening. Alyssa Lee Van Bourgondien, of Stafford,...

Open for business

By ROCHELLE MOORErmoore@newsargus.comStores, restaurants and gas stations throughout Goldsboro continued to reopen Tuesday following citywide power losses and other complications from Hurricane Matthew.Many businesses flashed "open" signs or propped their doors open to signify the reopenings Tuesday afternoon. Some businesses...

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Police: Man died Saturday after his car was swept away

Goldsboro police are waiting until the family can be notified before releasing the identity of a 54-year-old man they say died in his truck Saturday after trying to drive through rushing water during Hurricane Matthew. Witnesses said the victim's car...

Air mail - Goldsboro News-Argus flies papers in to Mount Olive

With the Neuse River cresting at 2 p.m. today and flooding intensifying throughout Wayne County, many people in the southern part of the county are cut off from information on the storm. Many in the Mount Olive area are without...

County: River will top out over 30 feet

Wayne County first responders have conducted approximately 853 water rescues -- 125 in the city alone -- since Hurricane Matthew first impacted the area, according to a county news release. The county's 911 center has received an average of 300...

County residents asked not to bring recycling to convenience sites

Wayne County residents are being asked not to bring their recycling to any of the county's 13 convenience sites until further notice. Eight of the sites are without power because of Hurricane Matthew and cannot compact household waste. This impacts the...

Neuse River breaks flood record

The Neuse River has set a new record flood stage level of 28.94 feet and is predicted to reach 29.4 feet prior to midnight. The old record was 28.9 feet. The flood stage level is 18 feet. The river had...

County officials: Heed road closures

Wayne County officials are urging everyone to stay off flooded roads and not go around roads that are closed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The officials say disregarding the cautionary measures place a hazard not only to the citizen's...

Water boil advisory

A boil water advisory has been extended until further notice for all customers of Belfast-Patetown Sanitary District, Eastern Wayne Sanitary District, Northwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District, Southwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Fork Township Sanitary District, the towns of...

Thousands still without power

More than 30,000 Wayne County residents are still without electricity with more customers experiencing power losses late Monday. Duke Progress Energy and Tri-County Electric estimate that electric outages could continue the remainder of the week and potentially through Sunday....

Goldsboro water system remains intact

The city of Goldsboro water system remains intact and no water line ruptures or boil-water advisories have been issued, city officials say. Scott Stevens, Goldsboro city manager, confirmed that no water line breaks have occurred and water supplies remain...

Family rides out storm, awaits Neuse's crest

ROSEWOOD -- In the midst of a storm that tossed Shell Davis' emotions back and forth between "helpless and hopeless at the same time," he described the weekend's experience like a scene from "Titanic." "I could actually see the whitecaps...

County prepares for river's crest

Officials said Monday afternoon Wayne County is experiencing historical flooding due to Hurricane Matthew, and the Neuse River is expected to crest at nearly 29 feet today at 2 p.m. As of 6 a.m. today, the Neuse River was...

Tornado confirmed near Walnut Creek

A tornado touched down Saturday afternoon near Walnut Creek, near and along U.S. 70, downing trees, damaging roofs and a camper. At least one billboard was destroyed, but injuries were reported. The National Weather Service confirmed the EF0 tornado with...

New members join University of Mount Olive board

MOUNT OLIVE-- Edward Cromartie Sr., Roger Davis, Grey Morgan, and Dean Rouse are the newest members of the University of Mount Olive Foundation Board. The Foundation, which was formed in early 2004, has been active in its efforts to...

Neuse Correctional Institution evacuated

Neuse Correctional Institution was evacuated Monday due to flooding from Hurricane Matthew, according to a press release from the North Carolina Joint Information Center. The release said 797 inmates were evacuated by bus and relocated to other facilities within...

Breast cancer awareness event Thursday

Wayne Memorial Hospital will transform its front lawn this week into a sea of pink, in commemoration of breast cancer awareness month. "50 Shades of Pink" will be held on Thursday evening, Oct. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m., as...

County water advisory extended

A boil water advisory has been extended until further notice for all customers of Belfast-Patetown Sanitary District, Eastern Wayne Sanitary District, Northwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Southeastern Wayne Sanitary District, Southwestern Wayne Sanitary District, Fork Township Sanitary District, the towns of...

Monday, October 10, 2016

County leaders address lingering issues after Matthew

Officials said Monday afternoon Wayne County is experiencing historical flooding due to Hurricane Matthew, and the Neuse River is expected to crest at nearly 29 feet Tuesday at 2 p.m. Water will then recede to around 27 feet, and could...

Prison evacuated due to flooding

Neuse Correctional Institution was evacuated Monday due to flooding from Hurricane Matthew, according to a press release from the North Carolina Joint Information Center. The release said 797 inmates were evacuated and relocated to other facilities within the state prison...

UPDATE: Grocery stores, restaurants, gas station remain open

UPDATE -- Harris Teeter on Wayne Memorial Drive is now closed. Stores, restaurants and gas stations throughout Goldsboro are open or preparing to open today. Due to the loss of electricity or other complications, many throughout the city and along...

Businesses on Ash Street extensively damaged

The mud-covered floor of The Cloth Barn revealed a haunting, 17-year-old photo just two days after Hurricane Matthew left its mark. Elizabeth Bridgers, owner of the fabric store, found a 1999 picture of the red-colored Cloth Barn, which was taken shortly...

Neuse expected to reach 28 feet by noon

Wayne County officials said at 10:30 a.m. the Neuse River at Goldsboro was at 25.67 feet and by noon is expected to reach 28 feet -- 10 feet above flood stage. Voluntary evacuations are under way and boat rescues are...

Wayne County schools close for remainder of the week

Due to rising river levels, all Wayne County Public Schools' campuses and administrative offices will be closed for the remainder of the week for students and staff. All schools are closed and off limits to students and staff until further...

Southbound lane of U.S. 117 is closed due to flooding

The southbound lane of U.S. 117 at the Neuse River has been closed because of flooding.Both northbound and southbound traffic on U.S. 117 between Arrington Bridge Road and the Old Mount Olive Highway are now sharing the northbound lanes.All lanes...

Campers 'lose everything' after water rises at Busco

Some lost a motorcycle. Some left behind four-wheelers. Some lost their entire home. Several RVs and mobile homes from Busco Beach took up residence in the parking lot at the Food Lion in Mar-Mac Sunday after being forced to evacuate...

Flooding expected to reach record highs

Major flooding is expected along the Neuse River after Hurricane Matthew dumped anywhere from 9 to 15.24 inches of rain on Wayne County. The volume of water that swept across parts of the county has the potential to be record-setting...

Wayne reels from impact

Much of Wayne County remains flooded and one person has died after Hurricane Matthew dumped approximately 16 inches of rain on Wayne County over the weekend. At least 31,000 residents remained without power this morning, according to Duke Progress Energy...

Schools closed at least through Tuesday

Nearly half of the public schools in Wayne County were still without power Sunday afternoon, as district officials canceled classes for today, later extending that through Tuesday, with the superintendent spending the latter part of the weekend assessing the situation...

Absentee ballot meetings planned

The Wayne County Board of Elections has set a series of meetings to approve the applications for absentee ballots for the Tuesday, Nov. 8, general election. The meetings, which will start at 5 p.m., will be held at the Wayne...

Stay safe, follow these tips in using chain saws

RALEIGH -- As North Carolina cleans up after Hurricane Matthew, residents should take precautions to ensure their safety as fallen limbs and trees are being cleared away from roads, houses and yards., officials with the state's Joint Information Center. Before...

Major flooding expected as river swells

Major flooding is expected along the Neuse River after Hurricane Matthew dumped anywhere from 9 to 15.24 inches of rain on Wayne County. The volume of water that swept across parts of the county has the potential to be record-setting...

Sunday, October 9, 2016

Evacuations spawn curfews

Goldsboro residents are being asked to voluntarily evacuate their homes in certain areas of the city due to the predicted crest of the Neuse River. Residents south and west of the following areas are asked to evacuate and get to...

Power likely out for days

Much of Wayne County remains flooded and one person has died after Hurricane Matthew dumped approximately 16 inches of rain on the local area overnight Saturday into Sunday morning.At least 33,000 customers were without power, according to Duke Progress Energy...

Aftermath

Much of Wayne County remains flooded and one person has died after Hurricane Matthew dumped approximately 16 inches of rain on the local area overnight Saturday into Sunday morning.At least 33,000 customers were without power, according to Duke Progress Energy...

Woman charged after passing out with children in car

Goldsboro police said Friday a "good Samaritan" who happened upon a woman unresponsive in her car with her two children inside on Berkeley Boulevard Thursday turned out to be one of their own. Retired Goldsboro police Sgt. Jeremy Sutton broke...

Walker a 'good fit' for Wayne Community College

When the Wayne Community College board of trustees set out to find a new president, there was one sentiment that kept popping up in the discussion -- they wanted the right "fit" for the institution, as well as the community...

Veterans standdown held at Herman Park

Veterans Freeman E. Matthews of Wilson and Dave Warnick of Holly Springs attended Thursday's veterans standdown for different reasons -- Matthews to look for resources; Warnick to help provide them. But both agreed there was still one thing about...

Hurricane Matthew drenches Wayne County

Hurricane Matthew dumped enough rain on Wayne County Saturday to force the closure of dozens of streets and roads, make driving hazardous on many others, and force the evacuation of residents living in one section of the city of Goldsboro....

Former Foster Center focus of meeting

The future of the former W.A. Foster Center -- a building with deep ties to the African-American history in Goldsboro -- will be explored during a community meeting Wednesday. The Goldsboro City Council will have a public meeting starting at...

Wayne Community College still accepting students for fall

Students who still want to attend Wayne Community College this fall have one more chance to start the semester. Registration for "Fall II" condensed college credit courses will be held Thursday, Oct. 13, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. on...

University of Mount Olive offers master's degree in nursing

MOUNT OLIVE -- Phyllis Coley of Pikeville has been a registered nurse for more than 30 years. She went into the field not just to make a living, but because she had a genuine love and concern for people....

Rain not good news for Wayne area farmers

The heavy rainfall Hurricane Matthew dumped on eastern North Carolina this weekend was not welcome news for Wayne County farmers, already mired down in soggy fields. Wind that accompanied the storm could also impact any corn still in the...

Proposed noise ordinance would not include firearms

Shoot, shout or shhh. Wayne County residents will have a chance to speak up about the things that disturb their silence later this month as the county works to replace its current vague, three-paragraph, and basically unenforceable, noise ordinance....

Program on black Civil War regiment

The Wayne County Public Library will have a free program on the 135th U.S. Colored Troops Oct. 20 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The unit was formed in Goldsboro in March 1865 and included more than 200 men from...

Old Dobbs Society to hold special meeting

The Old Dobbs Genealogical Society will meet on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Wayne County Public Library. The start time will be 10 a.m. rather than the usual 10:30 due to the program. The organization will be joining the...

Blood drive schedule

The following is the October blood drive schedule for the Wayne County Chapter of the American Red Cross: * Oct. 10 at Eastern Wayne High School from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. * Oct. 11 at Charles B. Aycock High...

Mt. Olive Pickle booth at State Fair to move

RALEIGH -- After almost 30 years in the same location at the N.C. State Fair, Mt. Olive Pickle Co. will move to a new spot this year. The company's booth, where fair-goers can purchase a pickle for 50 cents,...

Gray receives Order of Long Leaf Pine

Dr. Betty Howell Gray of Charlotte, formerly of Goldsboro, received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for her service to the state and Charlotte-Mecklenburg County. The award is the highest honor for community service bestowed by the state of...

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Curfew in effect

City and county officials have set a 6 pm to 6 a.m. curfew countywide....

County officials: Worst yet to come

By ROCHELLE MOORE and JOHN JOYCE Hurricane Matthew is dumping enough rain on Wayne County Saturday to force the closure of dozens of streets and roads, make driving hazardous on many others and force the evacuation of residents living in...

Wayne County and city roads close due to flooding

As flood waters from the Neuse River recede, many of the roads previously closed by the N.C. Department of Transportation and the Wayne County Office of Emergency Services are now open. A list of those roads and their current status,...

High wind, flood warnings issued for Wayne County

Wayne County conditions are expected to increasingly worsen throughout the day today with high wind and flood warnings in effect through Sunday. A high wind warning was issued by the National Weather Service Saturday morning, with sustained northeast winds of...

Friday, October 7, 2016

Woman arrested for DWI, drug charges after passing out with kids in car

Goldsboro police said Friday a "good Samaritan" who happened upon a woman unresponsive in her car with her two children inside on Berkeley Boulevard Thursday turned out to be one of their own. Retired Goldsboro police Sgt. Jeremy Sutton broke...

Breast cancer benefit motorcycle ride Oct. 15

Eastern Radiologist will be hosting the 10th annual breast cancer benefit motorcycle ride. The event is Ride for the Ribbon on Oct. 15. Last year's event raised a total of $17,000 to support breast cancer screenings / early detection programs...

Work on ag center approved

Nearly $4.5 million in subcontracting work for the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention Center was unanimously approved this week by the Wayne County Board of Commissioners. To date, the contract with T.A. Loving Co., the construction manager at risk for...

Hurricane nears North Carolina coast

WATER ADVISORY: Wayne County is reporting several water line breaks throughout the county and, according to a press release, officials are advising those that live in the areas of the breaks to boil their water as contamination may be possible."Given...

Murder suspect arrested

A Goldsboro man wanted for a January killing was brought back to Wayne County from Maryland on Tuesday and charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, first-degree burglary and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon. Billy Renaldo Hamm, 44, of...

Motions are settled in Jones bribery case

Several pending motions in the bribery case of Judge Arnold Jones were settled Monday. Motions filed by prosecutors hoped to prevent Jones and his attorneys from presenting evidence in an effort to impeach FBI Task Force Officer Matthew Miller as...

Talent abounds in Wayne fair contest

The entertainment arena at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair pounded with enthusiasm during the Grades 6-8 talent show Thursday evening. From the foot-stomping, hand-clapping performance by the 20-member Voices of Distinction Gospel Choir's to the steady, confident thump of...

Wrecks send one to hospital, delay traffic

Two separate wrecks involving five cars happened at the same time Thursday morning on U.S. 117 near Arrington Bridge Road, sending one person to the hospital and reducing traffic to one lane for more than an hour. In the first...

Fair horse show held Thursday

Maggie Lancaster, 2, dances from side to side and blows kisses to her family in the crowd. Her mother, Natalia, minds the animal next to her daughter. Maggie's miniature horse, Dillon, is larger than she is. Overcast skies and rain...

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair winners

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair Daily Winners Thursday Talent Contest Vocal Solo 1st place (6-8): Macy Parkhurst, Wayne Christian School 1st place (9-12)Zac Kelly, Southern Wayne High School Instrumental Solo 1st pPlace (6-8): Austin Abadà, Rosewood Middle School 1st place(9-12): Emmalee...

Dock Bryant celebrates 101st birthday

Dock Bryant was born Aug. 11, 1915, to the late Henry and Ella Farrow Bryant in Kenansville. He is the fourth child born of seven children and the only one still living. Dock was reared and raised on the Pickett...

Band with local member coming to Wayne County

Caribou Mountain Collective is coming to Wayne County -- along with a member who is a Goldsboro native. The concert will be Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. Miles Perry, 29, resided in Goldsboro until he left home...

Taste of Wayne postponed due to rain

United Way of Wayne County's 26th Annual Taste of Wayne County has been postponed until Saturday, October 15 due to the uncertainty surrounding Hurricane Matthew. The event will be held at 200 North Center Street (City Hall block) from 11...

Wayne County Schools to close two hours early today

Wayne County Public Schools announced Friday that all public schools will close two hours early in response to Hurricane Matthew bringing heavier rains to the area than first anticipated. The National Weather Service is calling for between 5 to 10...

Heavy rains threaten as Hurricane approaches, precautions taken

Wayne County can expect wind gusts of up to 45 mph by Saturday and between 5 and 10 inches of rain today through Sunday as Hurricane Matthew makes its run up the southern coast, according to the National Weather Service....

Thursday, October 6, 2016

Fair to close early ahead of looming storm

With Hurricane Matthew advancing up the east coast of Florida, Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair officials have opted to shut down the fair two days ahead of schedule.The fair, regularly scheduled for a 10-day run, will not open Friday or Saturday....

Fair to close early ahead of looming storm

With Hurricane Matthew advancing up the coast of Florida,  Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair officials have opted to shut down two days ahead of schedule. The fair, regularly scheduled to run 10 days, will not open Friday or Saturday. Fair manager Eddie...

Jets, aircraft deploy in preparation for Hurricane Matthew

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base deployed fighter jets and aircraft Thursday in route to Louisiana in preparation for Hurricane Matthew. Forty-one F-15E Strike Eagles from the 4th Fighter Wing and six KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft from the 916th Air Refueling Wing took...

State Medical Assistance Team sets up at O'berry

The Wake Forest Baptist Health State Medical Assistance Team set up a Medical Support Shelter in building 502 at the O'Berry Center today to provide Wayne County with additional medical resources as Hurricane Matthew approaches. Corey Roberts, the commander of...

Wayne County to experience wind gusts and rain

Wayne County residents can expect wind gusts of up to 40 miles per hour and possibly a half to one inch of rain or more between Friday night into Saturday night as Hurricane Matthew continues up the East Coast before...

Showing talents

DUDLEY -- Olivia Lancaster, 7, said her mom, Rebecca, picked out her outfit for Thursday night's talent show at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair, but that she gave her some advice as well. "I like the pearls," the Wayne...

Board passes specific recess guidelines

The Wayne County Board of Education approved a policy Monday designed to provide opportunities for students to have more physical activity during the school day. Policy 4112 -- Local Wellness gives schools guidelines for addressing issues such as obesity,...

Apartment is hit with gunshots

Someone reportedly shot into an apartment at 402 S. William St. early Wednesday morning while a family was inside. According to a police report, Travis Davis and Latosa Pixsley were inside an apartment at 402 S. William St. with...

Charles Snipes dies at age 81

Charles Snipes Jr., who operated a Ford dealership in Goldsboro for more than 40 years, died Tuesday. He was 81. Snipes ran Snipes Ford for decades, starting in 1961 when he bought the business. A native of Wilmington, Snipes...

Parking rules go into effect

City officials could start issuing parking tickets as early as today following the Goldsboro City Council's Wednesday approval of new parking fines. The heightened level of parking enforcement follows concerns voiced by downtown merchants after the city's $15 million...

Local businesses prepare for storm

Local businesses are taking what steps they can to prepare for Hurricane Matthew, predicted to impact eastern North Carolina this weekend. Dwayne Bevell, manager of EZ Bait and Tackle, has been watching the storm carefully. As a fishing-based business,...

Two charged with thefts reported at Walmart store

Two thefts were reported at Walmart in Rosewood on U.S. 70 West on Tuesday, and two people were arrested after trying to exchange stolen items for cash in one of the incidents. Marlena Faye Hall, 33, of 329 Maysville School...

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair winners

Cheerleading Contest Varsity 1st place: South Lenoir High School 2nd place: Southside High School 3rd place: Goldsboro High School Middle School 1st place: Woodington Middle School 2nd place: Wayne School of Engineering 3rd place: Eastern Wayne Middle School Talent contest...

Hurricane Matthew to make landfall today in Florida

Local businesses are taking what steps they can to prepare for Hurricane Matthew, now a Category 4 storm,  predicted to impact eastern North Carolina this weekend. Dwayne Bevell, manager of EZ Bait and Tackle in Goldsboro, has been watching the...

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

$5,000 worth of tobacco burns in barn fire

New Hope Fire Department Chief Donald Gray lost $5,000 worth of tobacco to a fire in a tobacco barn on his farm Wednesday morning.Gray said he was at the New Hope fire station when his pager went off to alert...

Hurricane Matthew: Community cancellations

COMMUNITY CANCELLATIONS N.C. STATE RETIREESThe North Carolina State Retirees Club has canceled the trip to the State Fair on Oct. 18.HIGH SCHOOL CAREER FAIRThe Wayne County Public Schools high school career fair scheduled for Thursday has been canceled until further...

Hurricane Matthew: Sports rescheduling

VARSITY FOOTBALL:* North Lenior at Goldsboro rescheduled to Thursday with kick off at 7 p.m. * D.H. Conley at Charles B. Aycock rescheduled to Thursday with kick off at 7 p.m.* J.H. Rose at Southern Wayne rescheduled to Thursday with kick...

Hurricane Matthew: School cancellations

Due to rising river levels, all Wayne County Public Schools' campuses and administrative offices will be closed for the remainder of the week for students and staff. All schools are closed and off limits to students and staff until further...

Hurricane Matthew: County: DOT response

RALEIGH --The N.C. Department of Transportation, under the direction of Gov. Pat McCrory, continues to respond to the effects of Hurricane Matthew and ongoing flooding on roadways in central and eastern North Carolina.Drivers are urged to visit ReadyNC.org or call...

Hurricane Matthew: County - Shelters and feeding stations

Shelters are open at:Carver Heights Elementary School, 411 Bunche Drive, Goldsboro, N.C., 27530Eastern Wayne High School, 1135 New Hope Road Central Heights Road, Goldsboro, N.C. 27534Carver Elementary School, 400 Old Seven Springs Road, Mount Olive, N.C. 28365...

Hurricane Matthew: Red Cross preparation tips

RALEIGH -- For the next several days, Hurricane Matthew is expected to travel through the Caribbean, potentially then tracking toward the coast of North Carolina. Although the powerful storm's path is uncertain at this time, the Red Cross is...

Hurricane Matthew: County response

Officials said Monday afternoon Wayne County is experiencing historical flooding due to Hurricane Matthew, and the Neuse River is expected to crest at nearly 29 feet today at 2 p.m.As of 6 a.m. today, the Neuse River was at 28.47...

Hurricane Matthew: City of Goldsboro response

Goldsboro street crews worked throughout the day Sunday and continued through Monday clearing trees and other debris from city streets.The core of the work involved removing trees from major thoroughfares first before trees and limbs were moved off of city...

Santa to travel new route through Mount Olive

MOUNT OLIVE -- A change is in store for this year's Mount Olive Christmas Parade that will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. Instead of lining up along Henderson Street, the parade will line up on Talton Avenue...

Fundraiser to benefit Southern Wayne High School sports teams

DUDLEY -- The Southern Wayne Saints Booster Club is sponsoring a reverse drawing and auction at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, at the Holmes and Lois Murphy Center on the University of Mount Olive campus Grand prize is $5,000. Ticket...

Mount Olive prepares while watching storm's path

MOUNT OLIVE -- Hurricane Matthew was still raging south of Haiti and Jamaica Monday night as the Mount Olive Town Board urged citizens to be prepared for the storm. North Carolina's coast could begin to experience wet and windy conditions...

A fun day in the park

The Fun Day in the Park celebration at Westbrook Park on Saturday was sponsored by the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by The Bridge church, Mount Olive Parks and Recreation and Mount Olive Friends of the Parks....

Wayne County Public Schools cancels activities in front of storm

In preparation for Hurricane Matthew, Wayne County Public Schools is closely monitoring the weather and staying in close communication with emergency management officials. So far, no school closings have been announced but several decisions were made late Tuesday afternoon. All...

Delicious desserts abound in contest

Susan Elliott was the one to watch out for at this year's pie baking contest at the county fair. She entered four pies and walked away with three first place ribbons. The ribbons were for her sweet potato strudel, banana...

Woman found by Wayne Sheriff's Office

A Wayne County Sheriff's Office helicopter crew found an elderly Pine Level woman missing since late Saturday night lying in a ditch shortly after noon on Monday. The Raven helicopter aircrew, consisting of Lt. Tom Parker and Deputy Joey...

Base offers job fair to ease civilian transition

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base sought to alleviate the stress of transitioning from military service to civilian life as well as provide opportunities for military spouses through a job fair Tuesday morning. An estimated 57 companies, both local and national,...

Former hospital president dies at 71

James Hubbell is being remembered as a visionary who advanced health care in Wayne County during during the 13 years he was president and CEO of Wayne Memorial Hospital. Hubbell died at his home on Saturday. He was 71....

County braces for Matthew

As Hurricane Matthew charges toward the eastern coast of the United States, the National Weather Service in Raleigh is forecasting heavy winds and rains for Goldsboro and Wayne County. Meteorologist Kathleen Carroll said the worst of the storm will happen...

Signs of thanks

WILSON -- Airmen from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base received more than just the thank-you sign Monday from deaf students. Students from the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf in Wilson raised their arms and -- using the American...

Police chase in Mount Olive results in arrest

MOUNT OLIVE -- A police chase that spanned three blocks Tuesday afternoon ended when police boxed in the car they were chasing and resulted in the driver of the car being arrested. Ryan Vann, 36, was charged with failure...

Board talks drainage system

PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville town board tabled many of the items on their agenda at their meeting Monday night, citing the need for additional information and more precise legal language in a few of the town's ordinances. Among the...

Man is shot on Beech Street

A man was shot Tuesday around 10 p.m. at 503 Beech St., and one man was arrested as a result of the shooting. Officers received a call just after 10 p.m. from 57-year-old Melvan Mateen notifying them that 50-year-old...

Guardian ad Litem volunteer advocates sought

Seventeen-thousand children in North Carolina go to court every year with no one assigned to advocate specifically for them. The Guardian ad Litem program exists to help as many of those young people as possible. Guardian ad Litem was...

Fair winners

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair Tuesday winners Salute to Senior Citizens Youngest Grandparent: Flora Chambers, Mount Olive Oldest Senior Citizen: Winston Best, LaGrange Most Children: Ora McCaray, LaGrange Most Recent Grandparent: Lois Bradshaw, Grantham Most Grandchildren: Roy and Barbara Wiler,...

Crime of the week

On Saturday, Oct. 1, at 3:20 a.m., Goldsboro Police Department officers responded to the 300 Block of Olivia Lane regarding a subject being shot. Officer's arrived on scene and located 27-year-old Theo Washington had been shot multiple times. Anyone with...

Taste of Wayne postponed due to storm

 United Way of Wayne County's 26th Annual Taste of Wayne County has been postponed until Saturday, October 15 due to the uncertainty surrounding Hurricane Matthew. The event will be held at 200 North Center Street from 11 a.m. until 2...

Schools cancel activities in preparation for hurricane

In preparation for Hurricane Matthew, Wayne County Public Schools is closely monitoring the weather and staying in close communication with emergency management officials. So far, no school closings have been announced but several decisions were  made late Tuesday afternoon.All after school...

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Wayne County Sheriff's Office helicopter crew finds missing woman

A Wayne County Sheriff's Office helicopter crew found a missing Pine Level woman lying in a ditch shortly after noon Monday. The aircrew was among law enforcement and emergency personnel who participated in the air and ground search after the...

Pumpkin fun

An owl with pretty blue feathers will add a touch of whimsy to a room in your home.A witch with a green face, a nose with warts and a black hat sitting on your front porch might make your guests...

Two men charged in city stabbing

A man was stabbed Monday afternoon in front of the D&C Mini Mart at 1007 E. Elm St. and two men have been charged with attempted murder in connection to the stabbing. Officers arrested Jake Cunningham, 27, of 115...

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair daily winners

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair daily winners Monday Vocational Competitions Carpentry: Christopher Wiggs, Southern Wayne High School Health Occupations Medical Spelling Bee: Riley Glascoe, Charles B Aycock High School Drafting: Nick Barber, Southern Wayne High School...

Governor declares state of emergency

Gov. Pat McCrory issued a state of emergency Monday for 66 counties, including Wayne, in an effort to get emergency personnel and supplies in place and assist farmers needing to harvest crops. The declaration for central and eastern North...

Competition is stiff in fair spelling bee

Riley Glascoe spent the time between her own turns sitting in her chair, spelling in her mind the terms given to her competitors. The 17-year-old reigning champion of the Health and Occupational Students of America (HOSA) Spelling Bee retained...

Woman displaced after fire destroys apartment

A woman has been displaced and her home severely damaged after a stove burner that was left on caused a fire to break out at 720 Waters St. around 8:30 a.m. Monday. Suretha Williams, who is an employee at...

Board approves Pinnacle for design

The Wayne County Board of Education has selected Pinnacle Architecture to design the new Meadow Lane Elementary School Monday night. Wayne County Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Dunsmore asked the board for approval to secure Pinnacle Architecture, of Matthews. "The...

Series of traffic stops results in several gun, drug charges

A series of traffic stops conducted by the Wayne County/Goldsboro REACT Team Thursday and Friday resulted in several arrests related to guns and drugs. Maurice Thomas Lewis, 30, of 1517 Hart Circle, was stopped by officers on Beech Street...

Man facing charges of cocaine, heroin possession

A Goldsboro man faces multiple gun and drug charges as a result of the Goldsboro/Wayne County Drug Task Force's ongoing effort to clamp down on illegal drug trafficking. David Abraham Macias, 20, of 3201 Central Heights Road lot 202,...

Deputy earns school resource officer certificate

Willliam Lee Kates Jr. of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office recently completed the school resource officer certificate at the North Carolina Justice Academy. He is one of 163 officers to earn the certification since the program began. The program is...

Fourteen chickens reportedly killed by dogs

Two dogs got into a chicken coop at 137 Radford Drive and killed 14 chickens early Friday morning, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Marsha Marie Spiering, 45, of 137 Radford Drive, said two dogs...

Man pulls gun during fight at fair

A man allegedly pulled a gun during a fight at the Wayne County Fair Grounds Saturday night, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Jose Avendano Ortiz, 18, of 105 Logan Run Lane, Albertson, reportedly got...

Monday, October 3, 2016

Man stabbed in front of D&C Mini Mart

A man was stabbed this afternoon in front of the D&C Mini Mart at 1007 E. Elm St.Officers responded to a call of a man getting stabbed around 1:30 p.m. and found Kevin Sauls, 28, suffering from a stab wound...

Search warrant nets thousands in cocaine, heroin

A Goldsboro man faces multiple gun and drug charges as a result of the Goldsboro/Wayne County Drug Task Force's ongoing effort to clamp down on illegal drug trafficking across the county. David Abraham Macias, 20, of 3201 Central Heights Road...

Fire on Waters Street displaces woman

A woman has been displaced and her home severely damaged after a stove burner that was left on caused a fire to break out at 720 Waters St. around 8:30 this morning.Suretha Williams, who is an employee at Goldsboro City...

Passionate for Poetry Festival

William Shakespeare (Rosalyn Lomax), left, hands instructions for the scavenger hunt to L.J. Williams, 6, right, Lauren Smith, 12, wearing cap, and Kiera Smith, 9, center, during the Passionate for Poetry Festival at Herman Park on Sunday....

Man is shot in back on street

A man was shot in the back Sunday morning while walking westward in the 700 block of Newsome Street. Domiko Dereil Davis, 38, of 235 Wayne Ave., was walking alone when he was shot in the back, according to...

Man robbed at gunpoint in backyard

A man was robbed at gunpoint while playing cards around 4:30 a.m. Saturday, according to a police report. William Dwight Sampson, 55, of North George Street, reported to police that he was playing cards in his backyard around 4:30...

Westbrook named director of nursing for health department

Wanda Westbrook has been named director of nursing for the Wayne County Health Department. Mrs. Westbrook, who was previously clinical nursing supervisor, had the opportunity to work closely with her predecessor, Evelyn Coley, who recently retired. "I learned a...

Board to address ag center contracts

Wayne County commissioners Tuesday are expected to approve nearly $4.5 million in contracts for the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention Center and authorize the hiring of a director for the facility. The director, under the co-supervision of the Wayne...

Three women assaulted on Friday

There were three reports of assault on a female filed with the Goldsboro Police Department Friday, none of which resulted in anyone being taken to the hospital. Around 6:30 p.m. Friday, Quinton Cortez Lee, 32, of 116 N. Running Deer...

Beef heifer show nets three winners

Beef heifers can stand 4 or 5 feet high at the shoulders and weigh hundreds of pounds. Those numbers didn't intimidate the showmen at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair Beef Heifer Show, who had few issues in putting up...

WorkKeys tests offered Tuesday

The WorkKeys tests for the National Career Readiness Certificate will be offered four times in Wayne County in October. The Wayne Occupational Readiness Keys for Success (WORKS) program will provide testing sessions on Tuesday, Oct. 4 and 18, from 8:30...

Queen and her court

Bailey Stamper, second from right, was crowned 2016 Queen of the Fair on Friday night. Other members of her court, from left, are Rebecca Rodriguez, third runner-up and Miss Congeniality; Isabelle Richards, second runner-up; Jade Jordan, first runner-up; and Brooke...

Fair winners

Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair Daily Winners Sunday Beef Heifer Show Grand Champion Kadence Overby, Selma Reserve Champion Jensen Barwick, Seven Springs Showmanship Ages 9-11 - Shane Kendall, Magnolia Ages 12-14 - Victoria Ward, Clayton Ages 15-19 - Caleb Heath, LaGrange...

Commissioners to approve ag center contracts

Wayne County commissioners on Tuesday are expected to approve nearly $4.5 million in contracts for the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention and authorize the hiring of a director for the facility. The director will develop strategic plans and long-range goals...

Saturday, October 1, 2016

Principal, specialist recognized for work

The Principals and Assistants' Association of Wayne County Public Schools has recognized two outstanding administrators. Kevin Smith, principal at Spring Creek Middle School, was named WCPS 2016 Principal of the Year, and Christy Straughan-Haley, elementary curriculum specialist at Brogden Primary,...

Saints Booster Club to host raffle

DUDLEY -- The Southern Wayne Saints Booster Club is sponsoring a reverse drawing and auction at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, at the Holmes and Lois Murphy Center on the University of Mount Olive campus Grand prize is $5,000....

10th annual Really Chili Challenge slated for Oct. 22

Local cooks are getting their secret recipes for the most mouthwatering chili ready for the 10th annual Really Chili Challenge. The event is the yearly fundraiser for the Community Soup Kitchen. It will be held Oct. 22 from 11...

Shoeboxes for Samaritan's Purse being sought

Christmas is closer than you think and it's already the time of the year to be preparing shoeboxes of gifts for needy children around the world through the Samaritan's Purse outreach organization. Every year, millions of shoeboxes are packed...

Salvation Army in need of holiday bell ringers

Although Christmas is still a few months away, the Salvation Army is already looking for volunteers to ring the bell and man the familiar red kettles during the holiday season. Lt. Phillip Stokes said he's already getting a few...

Political sign stolen from yard

A local man reported last week that his Donald Trump sign was stolen from his front yard. George Emory Daly, 73, of Slick Rock Road, told police someone had taken his Trump sign. Daly said he noticed the sign was...

Stories of the fair: Fifty-six exhibitors show 83 lambs during the open market lamb show

Schyler Crocker is calling out commands to his sister, Lydia, and her lamb, May. "Side. "Other side." "Walk." Lydia leads May in a small circle just outside the livestock shelter at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair Saturday. Though Lydia...

Stories of the fair: Blue ribbon chase

Wayne County didn't have a lot of entries in the Open Junior Meat Goat Show at the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair on Friday night but the handful of contestants walked away with an impressive number of ribbons for their performance....

Fair winners

Saturday Open Junior Market Lamb Show Grand Champion Shane Kendall, Magnolia Reserve Champion Caley Mayo, Whitakers Showmanship Ages 5-8 Mackenzie Cox, Richlands Ages 9-13: Marley Winstead, Nashville Ages 14-19: Lillie Medlin, Rocky Mount Friday Open Junior Meat Goat Show Grand...

Memories of survival

For many, World War II is planted firmly in the history books. For Goldsboro's Danny Clay, however, memories of his five years spent in Japanese-run internment camps in the Dutch East Indies will never fade. Born in Holland, Clay moved...

Boat stolen from Lake Wackena yard

A boat was reported stolen from a man's yard last week when he returned from vacation and saw it was missing. Robert Wallace White, 73, of Lake Wackena Road, reported to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Tuesday that when...

Heritage Band to perform at UMO

The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band will be in concert Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Kornegay Arena at the University of Mount Olive. The concert is free, but tickets are required. The ensemble that is...

Man sustains significant injuries after early morning shooting

 A 27-year-old man was shot early this morning at a liquor house at the intersection of Wilmington Avenue and Sycamore Street.Theo Reshawn Washington, of 1100 Jefferson Ave. Apt. 2, sustained significant injuries and is being treated at the University of...

Stories of the fair: Stamper reigns as Queen of the Fair

The 2016 Queen of the Fair is -- contestant No. 7, Bailey Stamper.And with that announcement, the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair was officially ushered in on Friday night in the entertainment arena.Miss Stamper tapped her way to the top, performing...

Two wrecks in an hour Friday

There were two wrecks in the city Friday morning in the span of an hour, one of which sent several people to the hospital. The first wreck happened around 9:40 a.m. when a Pontiac Torrent SUV rear-ended a Honda Accord,...