November 2016 archives

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Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Police execute search warrant on Elm Street

Authorities executed a search warrant at 504 E. Elm St. Wednesday afternoon, which resulted in two arrests and the seizure of several ounces of marijuana.An undercover officer with the Goldsboro Police Department's VICE Unit said the warrant was executed at...

Goldsboro Event Center broken into, culprits take golf carts on joyride

Police are investigating a break-in at the Goldsboro Event Center that happened Tuesday night, and currently believe it is related to a Saturday night incident where golf carts at the course were taken out for a joyride.According to an incident...

WAGES partners with business to provide meals during holiday

Every year, people all over Wayne County rely on the WAGES Meals on Wheels program to make sure they have enough to eat. During the holiday season, however, WAGES, or the Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency, closes down...

A showcase of holiday spirit

Jayla Morlock and the rest of the Meadow Lane Elementary choral singers perform "Gotta Get a Tree" during the Wayne County Choral Showcase Tuesday evening. This is the 16th year for the annual event, spanning three nights this week at...

Fremont STARS to expand to solve county overcrowding

Fremont STARS Elementary School will welcome hundreds of new students next year, as contractors are set to build a number of new classrooms intended to handle an overflow of students from nearby elementary schools. Wayne County Public Schools superintendent...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Jean Wilkins-Rollins, $25, in memory of parents Harvey D. Wilkins and Ada B. Wilkins and nephew Owen Richard Williams Jr. * Anonymous, $100 * Mary Frances Phenicie, $25, in memory of my parents, Hubert and Mildred Johnson * Linda...

More than $152 million approved for hurricane recovery

As of Nov. 18, more than $152 million has been approved in federal grants, loans and flood insurance payments statewide to those affected by the flooding in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. And more than 73,000 people in 45...

Animated awareness

Cole Wank stood with his mom, Danielle McEachern, and his 18-month-old brother Easton McEachern at the entrance to the Target store in Goldsboro Monday. A familiar robot -- with a unique voice -- grabbed his attention. Seymour, Goldsboro Police...

Vaccines available for flu season

This flu season is shaping up to be as unpredictable as the weather, officials say. Goldsboro Pediatrics had three positive flu tests over the past week in the Goldsboro office, Nola Claiborne said Tuesday. "We are only offering the injectable...

Church collects cookies for airmen

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base will be sending holiday cookies to deployed airmen again this year. For folks who want to help and don't have access to the base, Daniels Memorial United Methodist Church is the off-base collection point. It...

Crime of the week

On Aug. 8, 2015 the Goldsboro Police Department responded to a shots fired call in the area of 800 Argo St. at approximately 12:30 am. Once in the area officers discovered 25-year-old Tyron Jones and 21-year-old Robert Cole suffering from...

Police investigate early morning armed robbery

Police are investigating an armed robbery that happened around 6:40 a.m. today at the Family Dollar at 2529 E. Ash St. Maj. Anthony Carmon, head of the Goldsboro Police Department's Investigative Services Bureau, said a man approached a female employee...

Neighborhood kids lead police to alleged car thief

Local children helped police catch a man who allegedly wrecked a stolen car into a telephone pole and then fled the scene on foot Sunday morning. Capt. Leann Rabun said Michael Louis Nenni Jr., 45, of Jacksonville, hit the telephone...

Unusually warm weather forecast for today

Wayne County residents can expect unseasonably high temperatures today as a warm weather system crosses the state ahead of cold front. Overnight temperatures dipped only into the mid to upper 60s and today's high is expected reach almost 80...

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Goldsboro police charge two with heroin, cocaine possession

Police arrested two homeless people Sunday at the Econo Lodge at 704 Corporate Drive for possession of cocaine and heroin. Goldsboro Police Department D-shift Capt. Leann Rabun said authorities received a call about the two people staying in a room...

Man charged with stealing dog food, deer corn

Wayne County sheriff's deputies arrested a man today accused of breaking into Coker Mill at 1439 Hood Swamp Road to steal dog food and deer corn.Matthew Alan Williams, 29, of 409 Johnson Branch Road, is charged with felony breaking and...

Commission tables sweepstakes vote

A permit request for an internet sweepstakes gaming business on South Berkeley Boulevard was tabled by the Goldsboro Planning Commission Monday at the request of the applicant. Parkash Patel asked for the 30-day delay so he could work out concerns...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Anonymous, $25 * Salem WH and FMS, $50 * Robert and Jean Wilson, $25, in memory of Sarah Gurley Casey * Robert and Jean Wilson, $25, in memory of Ruth Martin Gurley * Jesse Parks and Alice Royal, $100,...

Two men charged after deputies find guns, drugs inside residence

Wayne County sheriff's deputies arrested two men on gun and drug charges after seeing narcotics inside a home while serving a child support warrant. Members with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team were serving a child...

Heating help is available in Wayne

Assistance is available for Wayne County residents who may require help with their heating bills. Beginning Thursday, Dec. 1, county residents can apply for the federally funded Low Income Energy Assistance Program through the Wayne County Department of Social...

Two charged with heroin

Authorities arrested two people Saturday for heroin possession after witnessing an alleged drug deal in the city. According to a press release, Rashawn Raymone Allen, 29, of 200 Wayneswood Drive, and Kelly Michelle Bass, 46, of 2303 Old Smithfield Road,...

Teen charged in break-in

Police arrested a teenager Thursday accused of breaking into a home Nov. 19 and stealing $5,790 worth of property. Christopher Kiandra Barnes, 18, of 1505 Scotty Drive, is charged with felony breaking and entering, felony larceny after breaking and entering,...

Optimists sell cheer for children

Jamie McCarthy and her family noticed the Optimist Club of Goldsboro's Christmas tree lot on Cashwell Drive Friday and decided to stop and look around. Typically, the family buys a tree in early December, with the hope that the Fraser...

Police recover some of what they say amounted to a $6,000 break-in

Police arrested a teenager Thursday accused of breaking into a home Nov. 19 and stealing $5,790 worth of property. Christopher Kiandra Barnes, 18, of 1505 Scotty Drive, is charged with felony breaking and entering, felony larceny after breaking and entering,...

Monday, November 28, 2016

Christmas parades into LaGrange

In keeping with tradition, Santa rides the very last float and rounds the corner onto Main Street during the LaGrange Christmas Parade on Sunday afternoon....

University of Mount Olive to host three candlelight services

MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive will host three Christmas by candlelight services on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 and 3, at the Hazel Waters Kornegay Assembly Hall located at 207 Wooten St. "Christmas by Candlelight is...

Two women charged with fraud

Two women placed items in a shopping cart only to convince a store clerk that they were returning the items for credit. The Nov. 22 incident was reported to Goldsboro police by Richard Reid an employee at Ollie's Bargain...

School board meetings go paperless

With this month's meeting of the Wayne County Board of Education the meetings officially go paperless, officials announced. Through BoardDocs, an online governmental meeting option, agendas and supporting documents will now be accessible to both board members and the...

Toys for Faith

In a case of role reversal, the community has ministered to the church. Since recent flooding forced Faith Christian Preschool to be displaced, nearly 92 children have been setting up camp in Tot Town, the children's ministry wing of...

Two charged after drugs, firearms are found in home

Wayne County sheriff's deputies arrested two men on gun and drug charges after seeing narcotics inside a home while serving a child support warrant. Members with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team were serving a child support...

Two charged with heroin possession

Authorities arrested two people Saturday for heroin possession after witnessing an alleged drug deal in the city. According to a press release, Rashawn Raymone Allen, 29, of 200 Wayneswood Drive, and Kelly Michelle Bass, 46, of 2303 Old Smithfield Road,...

Sunday, November 27, 2016

School choral events this week

Wayne County Public Schools students will spread holiday cheer through festive songs and melodies at the annual districtwide Choral Showcase, with performances spanning three nights this week at Goldsboro High School. This is the 16th year for the annual holiday...

Fire princess crowned

Under the holiday lights and decorations lining South Center Street in downtown Goldsboro Saturday evening, the temperatures lingered in the mid-40s. But inside the Paramount Theatre, things were just beginning to heat up. A crowd of 220 family, friends and...

Seven Springs trims Christmas tree

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Brylie Crook was placing ornaments on the Seven Springs Community Christmas Tree as fast she could. Several times the  3-year-old even hustled up a 10-foot ladder, with some help from Steve Smith, to hang ornaments near the...

Internet gaming business seeks permit

The owner of a former internet sweepstakes gaming business on South Berkeley Boulevard is seeking a conditional-use permit to reopen in the Village Square Shopping Center. The Goldsboro Planning Commission will review the request during its meeting Monday at 7...

Toys for Tots a go

Toy shelves in stores might be empty after all this Christmas season in Wayne County. Toys for Tots arrived at the Salvation Army and the Marine Recruiting Office this month, and people have already donated 10,000 toys to children in...

Non-U.S. citizens might also qualify for FEMA help

North Carolina residents who are non-U.S. citizens and survivors of Hurricane Matthew may be eligible for disaster assistance if they have a Social Security number or permanent resident card (green card) or if a minor child who lives in the...

Board of Health seeks nurse

The Wayne County Board of Health is accepting applications for the nurse board member position. Board of Health members serve a three-year term and are able to serve up to three consecutive terms with responsibilities that include making health-related decision...

'A grateful family' thanks fire department for rescue

GRANTHAM -- It is a simple message. Yet for Grantham firefighters, the sentiment is far more satisfying than the large box of Omaha steaks the note arrived with. "From a grateful family. The Mack family thanks you for your assistance...

University of Mount Olive graduation planned for Dec. 17

MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive will graduate approximately 325 students on Saturday, Dec. 17. Commencement exercises are scheduled for 2 p.m. in the George and Annie Dail Kornegay Arena on the Mount Olive campus. William Brian Floyd,...

Bentonville to hold Christmas exhibit

FOUR OAKS -- Enjoy a wagon ride around the grounds while taking in the scenes at Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site's Holiday Open House. On Saturday, Dec. 3, visitors will get the chance to see how Christmas was celebrated in...

Boys & Girls Club will hold annual Pancake Day on Dec. 3

The Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County is having its 38th annual Pancake Day on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Goldsboro club on Royall Avenue, from 7 to 11 a.m. Eat-in or take-out is available. take-out hours will be...

Graffiti found on man's front door

A man reported to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Tuesday that he found a swastika and obscene graffiti drawn on his front door around noon that same day. James McCullen, 55, who lives on Stridingridge Drive, told authorities he did...

Optimist Club and Harvest Fellowship Church help needy

The Optimist Club of Goldsboro donated $500 last week to Manna House, a ministry of Harvest Fellowship Church that provides the needy with food, clothing and other assistance. Optimist Club member Bill Edgerton said the group was interested in helping...

Man charged with possession of rifle

Police arrested a man Tuesday accused of running from officers with a stolen AR-15 rifle in tow on Oct. 15 when they found him at 309 W. Holly St. According to a press release, Dwayne Lee Hardy, 32, of 409...

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Fire claims barn, spares residents

A family's tears of grief turned to tears of joy early Saturday afternoon after learning that their loved ones had not been in an old tobacco barn consumed by fire. "We have torn the building completely apart, and we did...

Friday, November 25, 2016

Wayne Community College named 'military friendly'

Wayne Community College has been named a "Military Friendly School" for the sixth time. The distinction is created each year based on research using public data sources for more than 8,800 schools nationwide, input from student veterans and responses...

Fire sends woman to hospital

What started as bubbling grease in a pan ended with one woman sent to the hospital Wednesday evening after a kitchen fire at 121 Woodland Acres Ave. in Dudley damaged the home, said first responders and bystanders at the scene....

FEMA hours change

Hours of operation will change starting Saturday for all Federal Emergency Management Agency/state Disaster Recovery Centers in the state. The new hours will be Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m....

Student brings BB gun to school

A student at Dillard Middle School had a BB gun in his bookbag Monday on school property, according to a Goldsboro police report. A school resource officer responded to a teacher who told the officer a student had a BB...

Man allegedly points gun at woman

A man allegedly entered his child's mother's home Tuesday morning and pointed a handgun at her during a dispute. According to a Goldsboro police report, the woman said her child's father -- referred to in the report only as Mr....

Shopping frenzy: Shoppers hit stores early

Despite many retailers offering Black Friday deals online and in-store ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, lines still formed well before sunrise outside several local businesses Friday morning. The lure of a chance to win a $1,000 gift card, along with...

Shots fired at Irish Inn result in arrest

Police arrested a 31-year-old man Wednesday after a brief foot chase for allegedly firing shots behind the Irish Inn at 1104 Sunburst Drive earlier that same day. Alphonso Gray Jr., of 937 Dollardtown Road, is charged with discharging a firearm...

Thursday, November 24, 2016

Senior Christmas tree project

Wayne County's seniors are being looked after this year with their own Angel Trees at Berkeley Mall and Western Sizzlin. The project is called Spare Change for Seniors and is a cooperative effort between the Peggy Seegars Senior Center and...

Police identify, validate 254 gang members

The Goldsboro Police Department's gang officer, Walter Howard, has positively identified and validated 254 gang members during his first six months on the job. Howard said he expects the number of people involved with gang activity -- from associates...

Man arrested in shooting

After a five-day-long investigation, police arrested a teenager Tuesday accused of shooting 19-year-old Maurice Butler Nov. 17 at the entrance to Day Circle on Slocumb Street. Antwan Hamilton, 18, of 913 Sixth St., is charged with assault with a...

Floydie Harris, thankful to walk again

It's been nearly four years since Floydie Harris was struck by a fully-loaded semi truck while repairing a fence at his Dudley home. In the time since, he has undergone more than 20 surgeries, including the partial amputation of...

Empty Stocking Fund for Thanksgiving

* Walls and Allen families, $25, in memory of Minnie and Alexander Suggs * W.W. & Kay H Albertson, $100, in memory and honor of our parents * Woodrow and Hildegard Holloman, $50 * A friend, $25, in honor of...

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Kitchen fire sends teen to hospital

What started as bubbling grease in a pan ended with one woman sent to the hospital Wednesday evening after a kitchen fire at 121 Woodland Acres Ave. in Dudley damaged the home, said first responders and bystanders at the scene....

Retailers gear up for Friday

Retailers in the Goldsboro area are stocked with merchandise and ready for the Black Friday customer rush that starts Thanksgiving Day. Several stores were already offering deals this week and many plan to keep up the pace by offering sales...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Diane Harrison, $100, in loving memory of Tom Harrison * Carl and Anastasia Dreighton, $150, Merry Christmas to All * Earnest and Jeanne Lovings, $100 * Tony and Vicki Phillips, $50, in memory of Bernice Phillips * Tony and...

Lighting up for the holidays

Children tossed snow balls, families waited in line to meet Santa and hundreds watched as Christmas lights were lit in downtown Goldsboro Tuesday night. Mayor Chuck Allen, surrounded by children, flipped the ceremonial switch at 5:30 p.m., kicking off...

Voter canvass finally complete

Wayne County Elections Director Dane Beavers said the county's canvass is complete and there were no changes or surprises. However, there is still a chance that the election is not over. Republican Gov. Pat McCrory has called for a...

YMCA Turkey Trot proceeds will go to CHANGE healthy lifestyles program

The 11th annual YMCA Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 24, with proceeds to support the CHANGE for Children healthy lifestyles program. The 5K and 10K races start at 8 a.m., and the one-mile fun runs...

Sunday fire now designated as undetermined

Officials investigating a Sunday morning fire that destroyed a warehouse at 118 S. Carolina St. said Tuesday the fire is now designated as undetermined instead of suspicious. "I would safely say at this point there is nothing showing us...

The value of a gift

Talasha Armwood grew up in a single-parent home with three siblings. Her mother wanted to give her children all she could, but times were hard. Money, always scarce, was especially so around Christmas. "Back then, we knew the situation....

FEMA works to identify housing options

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is working closely with the state and other agencies to identify housing options for those affected by Hurricane Matthew and related flooding. Each situation is different and the solution must be tailored to the...

Council steps closer to Lidl store

The Goldsboro City Council approved a property change that paves the way for the addition of a new Lidl grocery store along Wayne Memorial Drive. The council also decided to purchase five security cameras for crime-ridden neighborhoods during its...

Soup Kitchen to serve up a feast

When most of Wayne County is sitting down to a Thanksgiving feast Thursday, there are some who would have nowhere to go and nothing to eat. So the Community Soup Kitchen of Goldsboro will open its doors Thanksgiving day from...

State trooper assigned to Wayne County under internal investigation

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed Tuesday that one of its patrol supervisors assigned to Wayne County is under internal investigation.  The trooper in question is accused of what amounts to stealing time -- and taxpayers' money -- by...

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Lidl grocery store on Wayne Memorial

Plans are moving forward with the addition of a new Lidl grocery store in Goldsboro along Wayne Memorial Drive near U.S. 70. The German-based discount grocer continues to work through the city's site approval process for the near 5.5 acre...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Georgia and David Gurley, $100, in honor of our Pine Ridge neighbors * Merle and Phyllis Kearns, $100, in honor of Rusty, Larry and David * Bob and Sue White, $100, in memory of Clayton and Dorothy Moore *...

Riders of the toys

Danny Scott, dressed as Santa, waves from his sleigh as he and the other participants in the 28th annual Wayne County Motorcycle Riders Toy Run line up to leave Berkeley Mall for their ride Sunday. More than 250 people made...

Fifty attend meeting to support Goldsboro High School principal

Wayne County Public Schools officials are saying little about Goldsboro High School Principal Robert Yelverton being placed on paid administrative leave this week, but announced late Monday that he will be back at work next week. About 50 people showed...

Three honored at Farm-City Week Banquet

Julian Aycock and the late Durwood McKinley Price Monday night were inducted into the Wayne County Agricultural Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding contributions in the field of agriculture. The Outstanding Woman in Agriculture Award was presented...

Business owners petition council to prevent sweepstakes from opening

Mary Viens stood before the Goldsboro City Council Monday with a list of more than 200 signatures from customers opposed to the opening of an internet sweepstakes parlor near the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base gate. Viens, who owns the...

Gang member arrested on drug charges

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a validated member of the Bloods, a street gang, on drug charges Saturday. Alexander Rickey Shaw Jr., 23, of 405 Cardinal Drive, is charged with possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana and...

Election canvass to be held today

The Wayne County Board of Elections this morning was to resume its efforts to canvass the results of the Nov. 8 general election. No surprises are expected once the canvass is completed and the vote certified, Wayne County Elections...

Rep. John Bell elected as N.C. House Republican majority leader

State Rep. John Bell of Goldsboro Monday was elected by acclamation to a two-year term as state House Republican majority leader. Bell, who had been completing the unexpired term of former Rep. Mike Hager, was elected to a full term...

Monday, November 21, 2016

Driver killed in fatal wreck is identified

A fatal wreck Monday morning at the intersection of U.S. 117 and Arrington Bridge Road left one woman dead, the N.C. State Highway Patrol said.Beatrice Ann Stokes, 60, of Dudley, perished in the wreck. She was pronounced dead at the...

Goldsboro High School principal placed on administrative leave

About 50 people showed up to a called meeting this morning of the Wayne County Public School Board in protest to Goldsboro High School principal Robert Yelverton's having been placed on administrative leave Friday. School officials have not yet said...

Driver killed in wreck

UPDATE---- A fatal wreck this morning at the intersection of U.S. 117 and Arrington Bridge Road left one person dead, the N.C. State Highway Patrol said. The identity of the person killed has not been released. Traffic was backed up...

Some on board lobby for workers

Wayne County Commissioners Ray Mayo, Wayne Aycock and Joe Gurley say they will continue their efforts to reverse a Nov. 1 board decision not to pay certain county employees who lost time because of Hurricane Matthew. The decision is...

University of Mount Olive celebrates Founders Day

MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive last Wednesday celebrated 65 years of providing Christian higher education during its the annual Founders Day worship service. Dr. John Blackwell, Barrow Chair of Biblical Studies at UMO, delivered the Founders...

Peddlin' awareness

There is no calculating how many people might have already seen the cardboard sign wrapped around the back of Christopher Sholes' bicycle. Fewer still might have gotten the message. Sholes' journey has taken him from the depths of southern-Texas north...

Sunday, November 20, 2016

Suspicious fire destroys building on Carolina Street

Authorities are investigating a suspicious fire at 118 S. Carolina St. that broke out around 9 a.m. Sunday and destroyed the old Goldsboro Builder's Supply building. Assistant Goldsboro Fire Chief Eric Lancaster said the building was vacant, and the blaze...

Saturday, November 19, 2016

Sheriff's Office probes two storage unit break-ins

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is investigating a reported storage unit break-in at Highway 13 North Mini-Storage. According to an incident report, the break-in happened some time between Sunday night and Monday morning, but was reported to authorities Wednesday. The...

DMV reports halt canvass

It could be after Thanksgiving before Wayne County and other counties across the state are able to certify their Nov. 8 election results. The delay is the result of a federal court ruling that votes of people who signed...

State, local offices to close

State offices will be closed Thursday, Nov. 24, and Friday, Nov. 25, for the Thanksgiving holiday. Federal offices, banks and post offices will be closed Nov. 24. City of Goldsboro offices will be closed Thursday and Friday for the...

Arrest made in August break-in

A 19-year-old is facing three felony charges after being arrested Wednesday for a break-in that happened in August. Dylan Garrett Thomas, 19, of 2819-A McLain St., is charged with felony breaking and entering, felony larceny after breaking and entering, felony...

St. Mark Church hosts giveaway

When Hurricane Matthew blew through Goldsboro last month, flood waters threatened St. Mark Church of Christ at the foot of Ash Street near U.S. 117. A yellow line around the large brick church now serves as a reminder of...

Man is charged in bait shop fire

Authorities arrested a man suspected of burning Coor's Bait & Tackle to the ground Thursday morning after spotting items stolen from the business in his car during a traffic stop. Capt. Richard Lewis of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office...

Curtain call

Sarah Merritt enjoyed listening to the smooth sounds of jazz Friday during her final event as executive director of the Arts Council of Wayne County. Merritt, who launched the monthly jazz showcase in 2014, has watched the series grow in...

Pup-kin patch

Waynesborough Park played host to the 2nd Annual Paws N Pumpkins pet adoption event Saturday. The event was originally scheduled for October, but was rescheduled due to flooding and damage to the park from Hurricane Matthew. Organizers are planning on...

Sheriff's Office seeks public's help in two cold cases

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in solving homicides that happened in 2013 and 2014. "Somebody knows something, and I wish that person would come forward," said Sgt. Robert Golimowski, the lead investigator on both...

Arrest made in Coor's Bait & Tackle fire

Authorities arrested a man suspected of burning Coor's Bait & Tackle to the ground Thursday morning after spotting items stolen from the business in his car during a traffic stop. Capt. Richard Lewis of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said...

Friday, November 18, 2016

Authorities raid Irish Inn

Authorities executed search warrants on nine rooms at the Irish Inn Friday night after a monthslong investigation into ongoing complaints levied against the location.Maj. Tom Effler with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office said law enforcement developed probable cause to raid...

UPDATE: Police detail arrest of homicide suspect

Police arrested a Goldsboro woman Thursday accused of shooting her husband in the chest during an argument Nov. 11 and charged her with an open count of murder. Christina Suzann Williams, 24, of 400 Benton St. Apt. E, was taken...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Deborah Libby, $10 * Madelyn Percise, $50, in loving memory of Don Percise * Curtis and Jeannette Inman, $30 * Ann Leahy, $100, in memory of Nancy and Bill Williams * David and Judy Parks, $40, in loving memory...

Learning from birth

The Partnership for Children celebrated another year serving the youngest citizens in Wayne County on Thursday, despite a few setbacks in recent weeks due to flooding. Executive Director Charlie Ivey told those gathered at Lane Tree for the Partnership...

Tuscarora Council honors Jackson

A "man of many hats" -- husband, father, businessman, Christian, Boy Scout and mayor of Walnut Creek, to name a few -- received the Boy Scout Tuscarora Council Distinguished Citizen Award on Thursday night at the Walnut Creek Country...

Matthew victims get more time to apply for help from FEMA

Victims of Hurricane Matthew now have more time in which to apply for federal aid. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a 31-day extension for Hurricane Matthew survivors to apply for federal disaster assistance. The state requested more...

Woman charged with murder

Police arrested a Goldsboro woman Thursday accused of shooting her husband during an argument Nov. 11 and charged her with an open count of murder. Christina Suzann Williams, 24, of 400 Benton St. Apt. E, was taken into custody without...

Man wounded in Slocumb shooting

Police are investigating an early morning shooting that left a man injured. Two men were riding in a car in the 1800 block of S. Slocumb St. around 12:15 a.m. Thursday when a Ford Expedition pulled up beside them and...

Looting investigated

Between the dates of Oct. 12, and Nov. 10, residents of the 300 block of Benton Street, located off of South John Street, reported leaving their homes secured after their homes were flooded during Hurricane Matthew. The residents returned home...

Looting after flood investigated

Between the dates of Oct. 12, and Nov. 10,  residents of the 300 block of Benton Street, located off of South John Street, reported leaving their homes secured after their homes were flooded during Hurricane Matthew. The residents returned home...

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Woman charged in slaying of husband

Police arrested a Goldsboro woman today accused of shooting her husband during an argument Nov. 11 and charged her with an open count of murder.Christina Suzann Williams, 24, of 400 Benton St. Apt. E, was taken into custody without incident...

Goldsboro police look into latest shooting

Police are investigating an early morning shooting that left a man injured. Two men were riding in a car in the 1800 block of S. Slocumb St. around 12:15 a.m. Thursday when a Ford Expedition pulled up beside them and...

Family Y to close for nine days to complete $300,000 renovation project

The Goldsboro Family YMCA will close Saturday as the facility undergoes a nine-day, $300,000 renovation project. The closing, from Nov. 19 through Nov. 27, will follow with a reopening on Nov. 28 at 4:45 a.m., just after the Thanksgiving...

FEMA to open Disaster Recovery Center in Duplin County

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and North Carolina Emergency Management this morning opened open a Disaster Recovery Center in Duplin County to assist victims of Hurricane Matthew. The center, located in the Greenevers Community Center, 494 Clinic Circle, Pink...

12 Wayne County Schools recognized for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support

Wayne County Public Schools had 12 of its schools recognized recently for Positive Behavior Intervention and Support, or PBIS. The district has participated in the statewide initiative, part of the N.C. Department of Public Instruction, since 2006, officials said....

Coor's Bait & Tackle burns to the ground

Not much is left standing of Coor's Bait & Tackle after an early morning fire gutted the structure and left most of it in ashes. The business at 312 Spring Bank Road, a total loss from the fire, is not...

Man allegedly assaults estranged wife after following her home

A man assaulted his estranged wife after following her back from her boyfriend's house, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office.Colon Randy Gray, 53, of 250 Racetrack Road, allegedly followed his estranged wife back to their...

Couple sentenced for income tax fraud

Walda Luna, 46, and Perfecto Ruano, 57, both of Wallace, were sentenced in federal court this week to lengthy prison sentences for conspiracy to file fraudulent income tax returns. They also were ordered to pay nearly $3 million in restitution...

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Empty Stocking Fund

* Louise and Byron Gould, $25, in memory of Ruby and Rudy Eklers * Sylvia Taylor, $50, in loving memory of Gary Taylor * Anonymous, $50, in memory of Granny and Grandmama * Raymond Smith, $25 * The Norris family,...

READ Wayne focuses on early childhood literacy development

READ Wayne, which started out earlier in the year as Wayne County Readiness Coalition, is generating funding support and hiring staff to get the message out about the importance of early childhood literacy. Dr. Dave Tayloe of Goldsboro Pediatrics,...

Board splits on appointments

Wayne County Commission Chairman Joe Daughtery Tuesday morning justified tabling appointments to the Wayne Memorial Hospital board as a way to keep people off the board who have created a contentious relationship with commissioners. Daughtery also chastised his fellow...

County reports six deadly heroin overdoses in 2016

There were two confirmed and one suspected heroin overdose reported in the city earlier this month, one of which resulted in a death. Thomas Michael Violette, 26, of 101 Biltmore Drive, died Nov. 3 around 10 a.m. from a suspected...

Canvass won't affect local races

Approximately 764 provisional ballots were cast in Wayne County during the Nov. 8 general election. But probably less than half will be counted -- not enough to affect any local races, Wayne County Elections Director Dane Beavers said. The...

Solar farm passes planning board

The Goldsboro Planning Commission was divided in a 3-2 vote Monday that favors future development of a 32-acre solar farm along Thoroughfare Road. The commission voted to recommend to the city council the rezoning of 43 acres, at 3021 Thoroughfare...

Man charged on three counts of larceny

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a man Nov. 9 accused of breaking into homes in Rosewood and Seven Springs during September and early November. Christopher Dail Alphin, 38, of 361 Sanderson Road, is charged with three counts of...

Fremont talks garbage pickup

FREMONT -- The Fremont Board of Aldermen set a public hearing date for its long-discussed garbage can ordinance changes at its meeting Tuesday night, planning to hold the hearing at its next meeting in December. A town committee on...

Latest heroin-related death brings Wayne County's 2016 total to six

There were two confirmed and one suspected heroin overdose reported in the city earlier this month, one of which resulted in a death. Thomas Michael Violette, 26, of 101 Biltmore Drive, died Nov. 3 around 10 a.m. from a suspected...

Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Appointments to hospital board tabled after Commissioner Joe Daughtery objects

Wayne County Commission Chairman Joe Daughtery Tuesday justified tabling appointments to the Wayne Memorial Hospital board as a way to keep people off a board that he contends has created a contentious relationship with commissioners. Daughtery also chastised his fellow...

Man charged with stealing antiques

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a man Nov. 9 accused of breaking into homes in Rosewood and Seven Springs during September and early November. Christopher Dail Alphin, 38, of 361 Sanderson Road, is charged with three counts of felony...

Wayne Memorial to host event encouraging mammogram testing

There is a lot of conflicting information about when and how often women should get a mammogram. One thing that remains consistent, though, is the value in having the test -- still deemed effective in early detection of breast cancer....

Operation Christmas Child begins donation collection for the needy

Operation Christmas Child kicked into gear Monday with multiple collection locations opening up to receive donations to fill shoeboxes for needy children overseas. Freedom Baptist Church, 300 Country Day Road, will be open today to collect donations from 2...

DGDC office relocates to City Hall

Hurricane-related damage to the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. office led the DGDC to relocate its office to Goldsboro City Hall. The property, at 219 N. John St., experienced interior damage to flooring, walls and furniture as well as the...

Woman accused of assaulting man with cigarette

A man avoided sustaining burns to his face after a woman allegedly snatched a lit cigarette from his mouth and jabbed it into his head several times. According to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, Donna Lynn...

Pregnant woman allegedly assaulted

A man allegedly punched his pregnant 18-year-old wife in the face and stomach Saturday, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Gilberto Rodriguez, 21, of 207 Waldrop Road, Dudley, is accused of assaulting his pregnant wife after getting into a...

Military Collection at the State Archives can help with documentation recovery

RALEIGH -- The Military Collection at the State Archives of North Carolina can assist North Carolina military veterans whose personal military records, military correspondence and photographs, military training manuals, and other archival items from their service in the U.S....

Monday, November 14, 2016

Operation Santa Claus hopes for success in wake of recovery

Operation Santa Claus, begun in 1960, has maintained its one focus -- the forgotten in Wayne County. The Mental Health Association in Wayne County got off to an early start on the operation this year, but organizers are now...

Health care for inmates questioned

Wayne County is looking to remove itself from having to pay for health care that inmates in the county jail receive at Wayne Memorial Hospital. Indigent care has been sticking point for commissioners in their dealings with the hospital...

University of Mount Olive students receive FFA degree

MOUNT OLIVE -- Seven University of Mount Olive students have received the American FFA Degree. The National Future Farmers of America organization annually honors members who show the utmost dedication to the organization. The honor is bestowed upon a...

Couple arrested after parking lot fight

Police arrested a husband and wife after the woman allegedly assaulted the man with her car and he punched her. According to a police report, Tomoro Nicole Saunders, 36, hit her husband, Preston Jamel Saunders, 34, with her car...

Man charged with assault, kidnapping

A man is being held in the Wayne County Jail under a $300,000 secured bond after allegedly beating a man and a woman and holding them at knifepoint Friday night.Anthony Dwayne Jackson, 33, of 908 Marvin St., woke up Nathan...

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Remembrance ceremony held

Whereas the Veterans Day Parade Friday was a loud, energetic affair, things quieted down for the Veterans Day remembrance ceremony at the Wayne County Veterans Memorial. The small proceeding, joined by around 40 people, took place at 1 p.m. Friday...

Veterans Day events held

As a city with close ties to the military, Goldsboro has a history of supporting veterans long after they retire from the service. On Friday, the city brought that appreciation to the forefront during the annual Veterans Day parade on...

Dunsmore explains school performance results

Principal Tammy Keel and her staff at Mount Olive Middle School were celebrating the school reaching expected growth last year. But then came the word from the state -- the school was a low-performing school. "I cannot tell you how...

Empty Stocking Fund

Donations are being accepted for the Empty Stocking Fund, Goldsboro's oldest charity. The fund, created in 1912, provides toys and clothing for hundreds of needy children across Wayne County. There is no overhead. One hundred percent of the money collected...

Man dies of wounds

A Goldsboro woman shot and killed her husband Friday while he was assaulting her, the Goldsboro Police Department said. The shooting happened at 400 Benton St. Apt. E just after 6 p.m. The man, identified by authorities as 28-year-old Sudon...

New Miss Goldsboro crowned

Goldsboro has a new queen. Courtney Smith, 19, of Mint Hill was crowned as Miss Goldsboro 2017 Saturday night, coming out on top of a field of intense competition. "It's definitely a great honor," Smith said backstage after the competition...

Shelter close, temporary housing available

The American Red Cross shelter in Wayne County closed Thursday after the remaining families were placed in temporary housing. More than 50 people were still being housed inside the School Street School shelter, on Virginia Street, until temporary housing...

Praxis Film Festival tickets go on sale

When Jack Kannan retired earlier this year as executive director of the Foundation at Wayne Community College, he took the Praxis Film Festival with him. He said at the time that David Weil had offered him an office at the...

Internet gaming again under review

The owner of a former Internet sweepstakes gaming business in Goldsboro is seeking to reopen with updated software designed to comply with state law. The Goldsboro Planning Commission will take up the request during its meeting Monday. Tom Britt...

Pikeville to seek FEMA assistance

PIKEVILLE -- The Pikeville Town Board laid the groundwork for potential aid from FEMA during Monday night's meeting, as it authorized Town Administrator Michael Hunt to begin the paperwork necessary to apply for aid. In adopting town resolutions 16-11 and...

Pianist to perform at Barton

WILSON -- Renowned pianist Beth Levin will return to the Barton College stage for her fourth appearance with the Barton College/Wilson Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 3 p.m. The orchestra's annual fall concert, conducted by music director Mark...

Shoeboxes sought for Operation Christmas Child

Due to the flood, Operation Christmas Child operations have relocated from Adamsville Baptist Church to Freedom Baptist Church at 300 Country Day Road. Shoeboxes filled with goodies for needy children overseas will still be collected, starting this week, and Wayne...

Mount Olive parade deadline

MOUNT OLIVE -- Friday, Nov. 18, is the deadline to submit applications for entries in the Mount Olive Christmas Parade and to nominate someone to serve as parade grand marshal. The parade, sponsored by the Mount Olive Area Chamber...

Embezzlement charge filed

A man allegedly embezzled money from a business in Mar Mac, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The release said the owner of the business reported the stolen money on Oct. 27, and the...

Vandalism investigated

A woman allegedly discovered "Jack X" scratched on her bathroom wall Wednesday after three blinds in her house had been lifted. According to a report form the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, the woman and her husband found a blind lifted...

From home-brewers to a whole new business

Plenty of times Zak Fein and Carson Clark raised their plastic cups of home-brewed beer in their garage. But thousands of toasts and spilled beer never amounted to their wish coming true. Then one night -- as their straightened arms...

Fundraisers for Pathway Academy

Pathway Christian Academy on George Street was badly damaged by the flooding from Hurricane Matthew. Two fundraisers are planned to raise money to help in the restoration of the school. On Saturday, Nov. 19, a yard sale will be held...

Financial aid workshop to be held Tuesday at Southern Wayne

Wayne County Public Schools, along with the College Foundation of North Carolina, will hold the first of two financial aid workshops this week. High school juniors and seniors interested in pursuing higher education, and their parents, are invited to...

Up to the challenge

PIKEVILLE -- Automotive students at Charles B. Aycock High School proved again this week that all the power worth harnessing isn't under the hood of a car -- it's in teamwork. Earlier in the month the school was named...

Two charged with armed robbery

Police arrested two 16-year-olds Friday night after they allegedly robbed a man at gunpoint when he agreed to give them a ride from the Beestown convenience store at 905 S. Slocumb St. Aaron Smith, of 312 Goldleaf Drive, and Terrencio...

Two arrested for larceny

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested two people Wednesday on larceny charges for a theft that happened on Aug. 22. Jacob Griffith of Goldsboro reported a break-in at his home. Griffith reported that a handgun, electronics and tools were taken...

Motorcycle toy run scheduled for Nov. 20

The 28th annual Wayne County Motorcycle Riders Toy Run will take place Nov. 20 at Berkeley Mall at noon. Fee is a minimum of one new toy per bike. Bikes will pull out of the mall at 2 p.m....

Friday, November 11, 2016

Man shot inside Benton Street apartment Friday dies

A man was shot and killed just after 6 p.m. Friday while assaulting his spouse, according to a press release from the Goldsboro Police Department. The shooting happened at 400 Benton St. Apt. E and the man, identified by...

Man shot inside Benton Street apartment

Police are investigating a shooting that happened just after 6 p.m. at 400 Benton St. Apt. E and left one man injured. Capt. Leann Rabun with the Goldsboro Police Department said a woman shot the man inside the apartment during...

Man charged for embezzlement

A man allgedly embezzled money from a business in Mar Mac, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The release said the owner of the business reported the stolen money on Oct. 27, and the report resulted...

Two arrested on larceny charges

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested two people Wednesday on larceny charges for a theft that happened on Aug. 22.A Goldsboro man reported a break-in at his home in August to the sheriff's office. He reported that a handgun, electronics and...

Empty Stocking Fund

* Anonymous, $5 * James and Sandra Forsythe, $100 * CMSGT (Ret.) Bob and Sandra Forsythe * LTC (Ret.) William and Dianne Allgaier III, $200, in memory of Morey and Eleanor Howe, Florence and William Allgaier Jr. * Lt. Col....

Wayne County residents receive third-highest amount of SBA loans

Wayne County residents have received the third-highest amount of U.S. Small Business Administration loans in the state to help with Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts. The federal program, which works hand-in-hand with the Federal Emergency Management Agency in major disaster...

SPX Flow is honored with Industry of the Year award

SPX Flow Technology was honored Thursday as the Wayne County Industry of the Year. The Why Wayne Works Award was presented to North Carolina Manufacturing. And for the first time the Wayne County Development Alliance presented the Milestone Award....

Area businesses offer free or discounted products for veterans

The following area busiensses are offering free or discounted products and services to veterans today: â€¢ Heroes Are Here, 112 S. Berkeley Blvd. -- free comic and 20 percent of all merchandise• Panera Bread -- free coffee, bagel• Krispy Kreme --...

Police investigate stabbing at Irish Inn

Police are investigating a Tuesday night stabbing at Irish Inn that happened during a fight involving three people. According to a Goldsboro police report, Corea Shaleto Pearsall, 38, who lives in Room 218 at the motel, told police he was...

Thursday, November 10, 2016

State offices to close on Friday

Local, state and federal offices, banks and post offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, for the Veterans Day holiday. Wayne County offices will be closed Friday as will the public libraries and the senior center. The landfill in...

Miss Goldsboro to be Saturday night

Ten young women will be vying for the Miss Goldsboro 2017 crown Saturday night at the Paramount Theatre. Another eight will be competing for the title of Miss Goldsboro Outstanding Teen 2017 The event kicks off at 7 p.m. and...

Leaders discuss budget and hurricane recovery

The General Assembly could possibly be called into special session by Dec. 1 to come up with a "fix" to get the state to where "it needs to get" in terms of disaster recovery relief, state Rep. John Bell said....

Miss Goldsboro to be Saturday night

Ten young women will be vying for the Miss Goldsboro 2017 crown Saturday night at the Paramount Theatre. Another eight will be competing for the title of Miss Goldsboro Outstanding Teen 2017 The event kicks off at 7 p.m....

State offices to close on Friday

Local, state and federal offices, banks and post offices will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, for the Veterans Day holiday. Wayne County offices will be closed Friday as will the public libraries and the senior center. The landfill in Dudley...

Leaders discuss budget and hurricane recovery

The General Assembly could possibly be called into special session by Dec. 1 to come up with a "fix" to get the state to where "it needs to get" in terms of disaster recovery relief, state Rep. John Bell...

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Wayne election overall

Wayne County's election went smoothly, with no reports of issues at the polls and all results rolling in shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, board of elections officials said. Nearly 70 percent of all eligible voters in Wayne County cast...

Local GOP watches as Trump wins North Carolina

Supporters at the Wayne County Republican Party Tuesday night never lost hope as they watched Donald Trump first win the county, then the state. Nearly 50 people arrived at the Republican party headquarters on election night to cheer on...

N.C. voters GOP

The Associated Press RALEIGH -- North Carolina voters have given Republicans a ringing endorsement, with one lone exception: Gov. Pat McCrory, who couldn't shake criticism of the state law limiting protections for gay people. McCrory remained locked in a race...

Will Bland defeats Arnold O. Jones, Curtis Stackhouse defeats Annette Turik

Two sitting judges lost their election bids by sizable margins in Tuesday's general election. Goldsboro attorney Will Bland unseated District 8-B Superior Court Judge Arnold O. Jones II, of Pikeville, by an almost a two-to-one margin. Bland had 29,251...

City votes in favor of $10 million bond

Goldsboro residents backed a $10 million bond referendum package Tuesday with overwhelming support. The city's $3 million parks and recreation bond, earmarked for the construction of a multisport complex, passed with 10,474 residents voting in favor of the bond and...

Local Dems watch as Trump wins North Carolina

The mood at the Wayne County Democratic Party headquarters Tuesday night was not as expected. Faced with a surging Republican turnout for Donald Trump across the nation, the approximately 40 people crowded into the Democratic headquarters were not seeing the...

Raymond Smith, Patricia Burden defeat opponents for Board of Education seats

Raymond Smith Jr. captured the most votes for the at-large seat on the Wayne Board of Education, while Patricia Burden, appointed to the District 3 seat two years ago, retained her post. In addition to the two hotly contested...

Trump wins

The hours ticked by as more states turned red than blue on the massive touch-screen monitors network and cable television news channels used to track election results Tuesday night. By 9 p.m. it seemed possible, and by 11 p.m., probable,...

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Will Bland wins seat as superior court judge

Will Bland won the Superior Court Judge seat against Arnold O. Jones with nearly 64 percent of the vote, garnering 29,251 of the vote.  Arnold O. Jones got 36 percent of the votes, garnering 16,630....

Governor, Lt. Governor and Attorney General races all tight

As of 10 p.m., North Carolina Board of Elections numbers show Gov. Pat McCrory leading challenger Roy Cooper, attorney general, 49.5 percent to 48.3 percent with less than 85 percent of precincts reporting. Lon Cecil, a libertarian candidate, trails with...

Burden, Smith win seats on the Wayne County Board of Education

Patricia Burden wins the Dist. 3 Wayne County Board of Education against Trebor Jackson with 4,498 votes, which amounts to nearly 60 percent of the electorate. Raymond Smith Jr. won the at-large seat on the school board against Ven Faulk with...

Wayne County Board of Elections reports a successful, issue-free election

Wayne County's election went smoothly, with no reports of issues at the polls and all results rolling in shortly after 9 p.m. Tuesday, board of elections officials said. Nearly 70 percent of all eligible voters in Wayne County cast a...

Race for the White House

With 59,558 of the 171,332 precincts reporting in the nation, Donald Trump is leading.Hillary Clinton is coming in 27,178,469 votes, which amounts to 47 percent of the popular vote.Donald Trump has gotten 28,259,525 votes, which amounts to 49 percent of...

Chimney fire damages Eureka home

EUREKA -- A fire badly burned a home at 115 E. Main St. this morning after it escaped the chimney. According to Northeast Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jay Evans, the homeowner was burning wood in the chimney when it escaped...

Parent seminar to be Thursday

The Wayne County Public Schools' federal programs department will hold its 20th annual districtwide Parent Seminar on Thursday at H.V. Brown Center on Poplar Street, from 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Keynote speaker for the event will be Dr....

Veterans Day events schedule at WCC

Wayne Community College will hold events on Thursday to honor veterans and military service members. A ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium in the Wayne Learning Center, with retired U.S. Army Col. Joe Marm, a Medal...

Man shot, killed on Bright Street

Police have released the identity of the man shot to death near the intersection of Nile and Bright streets in Goldsboro Monday afternoon. Officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert at 301 Bright St. at about 3:20 p.m. and found 32-year-old...

Pickle election tightens as campaigns push for favorites

It was the kind of election many Americans this season can only dream of. For students in Ms. Himes class at Meadow Lane Elementary, there was no name-calling, no nasty words or political drama. There were just pickles. The...

Man charged with meth

A man who began October by getting arrested for possession of methamphetamine started off this month the same way. Dennis Allen Anderson, 63, of 4337 U.S. 117 Alternate, Dudley, was arrested for possessing half a gram of methamphetamine after a...

Haulin' Hog to remain open despite charge

Haulin' Hog BBQ will remain open and continue normal operations in the wake of its owner being charged with rape, kidnapping and sexual assault. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested John Crawford Kearney, 43, of 900 Community Drive, at his...

Polling locations open to steady lines in county

Nearly one-half of Wayne County's 75,768 eligible voters had cast ballots before the polls opened at 6:30 this morning. But that and the brisk weather did not keep short lines from forming at several polling locations even though several...

Council approves cameras in city

The Goldsboro City Council voted Monday to lease five video-surveillance cameras for some of the high-crime areas on the eve of the city's 10th homicide this year. The council also plans to explore cost options for at least one...

Convicted felon handles gun, shoots man in back

Police arrested a Kenly man for shooting another man in the back Monday night after the gunshot victim showed up in Wayne Memorial Hospital's emergency room. Preston Jerome Jones, 23, of 503 W. Seventh St., Kenly, was arrested for allegedly...

Police identify man killed on city street Monday

Police have released the identity of the man shot to death near the intersection of Nile and Bright streets in Goldsboro Monday afternoon. Officers responded to a ShotSpotter alert at 301 Bright St.  at about 3:20 p.m. and found 32-year-old...

Monday, November 7, 2016

Shooting death in city

Goldsboro police are investigating a shooting death at the corner of Nile and Bright streets in the city. Initial reports are that one person is dead. Police have the area of the 800 block of Nile and the 300...

FEMA sites close due to technical difficulties

The Federal Emergency Management Agency/state Disaster Recovery Center in Wayne County is among 14 centers that temporarily closed today because of "technical" issues. A FEMA spokesman said he did not have any specifics as to what the issue is, but...

Two men assault and rob man

A man was allegedly approached by an unknown suspect who asked the man for a lighter last Sunday in the Harris Teeter Parking lot. According to a report by the Goldsboro Police Department, the man handed the suspect a...

Voters, candidates in final day of rough election season

When the polls open at 6:30 a.m. for Tuesday's general election nearly one half of Wayne County's eligible voters already will have cast ballots through one-stop voting. That compares to statewide where more than 45 percent of the nearly...

Nominations sought for governor's award

Nominations are being taken for the 2017 Governor's Volunteer Service Award. The county can select up to 10 individuals, businesses, groups or teams and one paid director of volunteers to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the community. One...

Law enforcement on standby for polling places Election Day

As one of the most contentious presidential elections in the nation's history looms on the horizon, local law enforcement is on standby. But there have not been any issues requiring law enforcement's presence yet. There have not been any...

UPDATE: Haulin' Hog owner charged for rape

The owner of Haulin' Hog BBQ faces rape and kidnapping charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman inside his business on Sept. 21. Police arrested John Crawford Kearney, 43, of 900 Community Drive, at his home Saturday. He is being...

Dinner theater proceeds to go to families on deployment

Good old gospel and Christmas music is what those attending First Baptist Church's dinner theater next month will hear as they enjoy a holiday turkey meal. A "Sanders Family Christmas" will be presented Nov. 11 and 12 and 18...

Bypass sign applications being accepted

The state Department of Transportation is accepting applications from businesses for logo marketing signs on the new U.S. 70 Bypass The signs alert travelers as where they can find gas, food, lodging, and attractions. Participating businesses pay an annual rental...

Sunday, November 6, 2016

Downtown business owner charged with kidnapping, rape

The owner of Haulin' Hog BBQ faces charges of rape and kidnapping after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman inside his business on Sept. 21. Police arrested John Crawford Kearney, 43, of 900 Community Drive, at his home Saturday. He is...

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Wreaths Across America slated for Dec. 17

As people across America are getting wrapped up in the holiday season, many will take a moment to recognize those who are no longer here to celebrate it. The Wreaths Across America program, a nationwide volunteer effort that will...

Women engaged in politics

Politics for Viola Ryals Figueroa this year is a family affair. Not only is the 49-year-old campaigning for local political candidates, but so is her 72-year-old mother, Elsie Ryals, her 32-year-old daughter, Alicia Crawford, and her 9-year-old granddaughter, Zarac...

Whitfield honored by Unifirst Corp.

It is the most coveted of all UniFirst Corporation recognitions. And out of the thousands of UniFirst route sales representatives in the U.S. and Canada, Goldsboro resident Greg Whitfield is one of only 13 who have earned this distinction for...

Thirteen county schools are failing

Wayne County Public Schools is working to get improvement plans in place for all 33 county schools before the holiday break, but particularly for the 13 designated as "low performing" schools. Schools making the list for the second year...

Volunteers offer lunches to groups helping with recovery

Ty Schmeltzer remembered what it was like to eat a sandwich after helping families without electricity. Schmeltzer, a 21-year-old lineman for Duke Energy Progress, said a group passed out bagged lunches to him and his coworkers last month as...

Waynesborough Park devastated by flooding

Nearly a week of standing water following Hurricane Matthew led to widespread flood damage at Waynesborough Park, its historical village and trailways that remain closed until repairs can be made. Hurricane damage and record flooding from the Neuse River,...

Warming hearts one coat at a time

MOUNT OLIVE -- Amid several racks of gently-used jackets and winter coats hangs a rainbow-colored number unlike any of the others. Waiting anxiously with her mother and brother, a 7-year-old girl in need of warm clothing tugs at her...

Wayne County Veterans Parade slated for Friday

The annual Wayne County Veterans Parade will be held Friday, Nov. 11, starting at 11 a.m. on South Center Street. Following the parade will be a reception at the Wayne County Museum, sponsored by the Daughters of the American...

Operation Christmas Childe is relocated to Freedom Baptist Church

Due to the flood, Operation Christmas Child operations have relocated from Adamsville Baptist Church to Freedom Baptist Church at 300 Country Day Road. Shoeboxes filled with goodies for needy children overseas will still be collected this month and Wayne...

Habitat luncheon honors donors

Damaris Soto stared at a ceiling air vent of her new home. She couldn't believe the construction company didn't install it in the floor, but she was thankful the Habitat for Humanity for Goldsboro-Wayne built it that way. Habitat...

Council to consider fire truck purchase

The Goldsboro City Council will consider spending nearly $300,000 more for new vehicles, including an aerial fire truck, during its meeting Monday. The city's fiscal 2016-17 budget, which went into effect on July 1, included a $1 million fire...

Goldsboro voters to decide on bond

Goldsboro residents will have the chance to decide on a $10 million bond referendum package during the Nov. 8 general election. The city is seeking voter approval of a $7 million bond for street resurfacing and other road construction...

FEMA needs temps

North Carolina Works, in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is advertising open temporary positions for North Carolinians to help the state recover from Hurricane Matthew, and to learn first-hand about the recovery process. If interested in working...

Voter turnout numbers high

As early voting came to a close Saturday, a better picture developed of how many voters have been casting ballots in Wayne County. The overall voter turnout in the county amounted to 33,769 out of the 75,768 total register...

Annual Leading Wayne County Leadership Conference held

Nearly 150 business leaders joined together for the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Annual Leading Wayne Leadership Conference on Oct. 27. This year's panelists included Crystal Gettys, president of the Wayne County Development Alliance; Dr. William de Araujo, orthopedic surgeon,...

Friday, November 4, 2016

Hillary Clinton makes campaign stop at PCC

Hillary Clinton supporters teemed with excitement Thursday as they waited for their candidate to take the stage at an early-voting campaign rally at Pitt Community College in Winterville. A crowd of nearly 1,000 endured long lines for hours before...

Former student talks about the value of CIS

Travis Sauls always wanted to be a firefighter. But that was a pipe dream for the little boy who didn't have his own room and grew up terrified by the spiders, roaches and sometimes possums coming in through the...

Wayne is approved for FEMA trailers

Wayne County residents displaced by Hurricane Matthew will be able to receive temporary housing assistance, including manufactured homes, that will be hauled into the area in the coming months. Gov. Pat McCrory announced late Thursday that the Federal Emergency Management...

Truck clips overhead lines on New Hope Road

A tractor-trailer clipped an overhead cable or telephone line and pulled the lines down on top of the rig Thursday afternoon, blocking traffic in both directions at 737 E. New Hope Road. Corey Bernard Sutton, of Kinston, was driving the...

County considers large event permitting

Special events in Wayne County attracting 500 or more people would be subject to a permitting process under a new ordinance being considered by Wayne County commissioners. There are some exceptions -- events sponsored by local, state or federal...

Fire breaks out at hotel

A fire caused by construction equipment broke out around 3:30 a.m. Thursday at the Goldsboro Suites hotel, which is currently undergoing renovations to become a Home2Suites by Hilton hotel. Assistant Goldsboro fire chief Eric Lancaster said the fire was spotted...

Early voting ends Nov. 5

Saturday is the final day for one-stop early voting for the Tuesday, Nov. 8, general election. The one-stop location at the Wayne County Board of Elections office, 209 S. William St., is open today from 8 a.m. to 5...

FEMA needs workers

North Carolina Works, in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is advertising open temporary positions for North Carolinians to help the state recover from Hurricane Matthew, and to learn first-hand about the recovery process. If interested in working...

FEMA will bring in manufactured homes for the displaced

Wayne County residents displaced by Hurricane Matthew will be able to receive temporary housing assistance, including manufactured homes, that will be hauled into the area in the coming months. Gov. Pat McCrory announced late Thursday that the Federal Emergency Management...

Thursday, November 3, 2016

50 Shades of Pink: Hospital event puts focus on breast cancer awareness

Bonnie Gray -- a wife, mother, grandmother and nurse -- had a very demanding life in 2006. "I thought I couldn't put one more thing on my plate," she said. "Then along came breast cancer." She shared her journey...

Board talks school projects

Security and the timeline for other schools projects were on the minds of some Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning following a presentation on the planned new Meadow Lane Elementary School. Randy Baker and Dr. Jim Watson with Pinnacle Architecture...

Dale Folwell discusses bid for state treasurer's seat

Dale Folwell lugs around a bowling pin to illustrate his approach to problem solving. Bowlers have two chances to knock down the 10 bowling pins, so the goal is to take down as many pins as possible with each...

Newborn unharmed in morning roll over

Police are investigating a hit and run that happened this morning at N.C. 55 West and Old Smith Chapel Road involving a car with a newborn child and three adults inside. A Pontiac Grand Am was heading east on N.C....

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Board passes housing standards

Only one person spoke during a Tuesday morning public hearing on a new minimum housing standards ordinance for county before it was unanimously approved by Wayne County commissioners. And she only wanted to know where she could find a...

Explosive disposal unit detonates box of dynamite

MOUNT OLIVE -- Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit detonated a box of dynamite sticks Tuesday morning at 1237 O'Berry Road. The explosives were found by Audrey Bonner and Donald Antilla Monday night, according to a report...

Meeting connects residents to many recovery resources

One resident is living in a hotel in Wilson. Another is concerned about erosion after a 14-foot-deep sinkhole developed from Hurricane Matthew. And two ladies are trying to find help for elderly residents who are grappling with condemned homes in...

McCrory extends order to address fuel issue

Gov. Pat McCrory addressed the potential impact to North Carolina's fuel supply due to the deadly explosion of the Colonial Pipeline in Alabama by extending an executive order from Hurricane Matthew waiving hours of service for drivers moving supplies...

Two schools to receive $2.6 million

Wayne County Public Schools has been chosen to receive $2.6 million worth of School Improvement Grants, to be used by Brogden Middle and Carver Heights Elementary schools. Ken Derksen, director of communication services for the district, helped write the...

Seven Springs cancels parade, but hope is revived with tree

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Ronda Hughes is hoping for a Christmas miracle. It is a miracle that could spring from a Christmas tree plucked from the floodwaters that submerged much of Wayne County's oldest town forcing the cancellation of the town's...

Leadership program heads into 19th year

A new Junior Leadership class has been chosen, and students are being prepped to learn more about their community. The program, an offshoot of Leadership Wayne County, was introduced in 1998 as a class project for the next generation, said...

Crime of the week

On Oct. 19 two residents at two different locations on Cindy Circle reported they had discovered through surveillance footage that their vehicles were entered into by an unknown, white male. If you have any information about the identity of the...

Seventh grader begins school supplies donation drive to help county students

Pete Sargent's home in the Seven Springs community was spared the devastating flooding that left most of Wayne County's oldest town under water. But Pete, a seventh-grader at Spring Creek Middle School, is helping students who were not as fortunate....

Gate closure leads to traffic jam outside SJAFB; Slocumb to reopen in about a week

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base hopes to have its Slocumb Street gate reopened in around seven days, after its closure caused a traffic jam on Berkeley Boulevard this morning, according to base public affairs. Seymour Johnson closed its Slocumb Street...

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

McCrory: Gas shortage possible after pipeline explosion

Gov. Pat McCrory addressed the potential impact North Carolinians might suffer from today's deadly explosion of the Colonial Pipeline in Alabama. A state-wide gas shortage similar to that which took place several weeks ago after an earlier incident with the...

Attorney general visits city to survey damage

Walking around flood-damaged units at the West Haven housing project Monday morning, Attorney General Cooper recalled a phone call he received from Gov. Jim Hunt in 1999 following Hurricane Floyd. "Gov. Hunt called me that morning and said, 'Meet...

City police apprehend man wanted for robbery

A man wanted on robbery charges ran when police showed up at his West Holly Street address to arrest him Sunday. Marcus Benton, 31, of 309 W. Holly St. -- facing robbery with a dangerous weapon charges for allegedly...

Dudley man arrested for meth

A Dudley man was arrested for possessing 7.6 grams of methamphetamine on Oct. 7, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The release, which was sent out Monday, said the arrest was the result of...

Board looks at Meadow Lane plan

The Board of Education got a glimpse of what the new Meadow Lane Elementary School will look like Monday morning when architects presented a drawing and discussed a timeline for construction, which will include a wing for the new...

FEMA hands out more than $5.2 million

Nearly 5,000 residents have received more than $5.2 million in disaster recovery assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Wayne County. "This is actual money that is on the street to disaster survivors in Wayne County," said Mike...

Wayne Country Day School holds 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...

Truck destroyed by fire on Edgerton Street

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....

Dudley man charged for possession of methamphetamine

A Dudley man was arrested for possessing 7.6 grams of methamphetamine on Oct. 7, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office.The release, which was sent out Monday, said the arrest was the result of a nearly...