June 2017 archives

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Friday, June 30, 2017

Mount Olive police make arrest in Friendly Mart armed robbery

After receiving a tip and gathering evidence, Mount Olive police were able to make an arrest in the armed robbery of the Friendly Mart on North Breazeale Avenue only three days after the incident. Mount Olive Police Chief Tommy Brown said...

Charting her own course through history

Skylar Holland is making history. From her passion for the school subject to a propensity for the Broadway stage, she has parlayed the two into high marks in an academic contest. The 13-year-old Wayne School of Engineering student recently...

Legislators pledge support to cemetery

Members of Wayne County's legislative delegation say that errors on the part of Gov. Roy Cooper's staff and politics are to blame for the controversy surrounding the Eastern North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. Cooper's office and Larry D. Hall,...

Splashing in summer

As it turns out, an 8-foot-tall sprinkler is a perfectly good way of beating the summer heat. Dozens gathered at the Grand at Day Point apartments Wednesday to enjoy the giant sprinkler, brought as part of the Goldsboro Fire...

Road project moves forward

  Work could begin as soon as the end of July on a $21.5 million contract to construct interchanges on U.S. 117 South at O'Berry Road, Dudley, and at Country Club Road, Mount Olive. "We bid them together as a...

Nonprofits recieve grants to help cope with damage from Matthew

Nonprofits operating in 13 hard-hit North Carolina counties will get $810,000 to help volunteers rebuild homes damaged by Hurricane Matthew, Gov. Roy Cooper said Wednesday during a visit to Robeson and Columbus counties. Cooper announced the grants while visiting...

NC DOT honors its fallen workers

For Millie Bailey, the state's work zone safety program is more than just a slogan. Her husband, Grey, a state Department of Transportation employee, died in March 23, 2015, after being struck by a car while working along U.S. 70...

Police officers present their community poilicing projects

A dozen officers with the Goldsboro Police Department presented the projects they completed as part of the agency's in-house community policing class to stakeholders Wednesday. They were the second round of officers to do so, with the first round...

Armed robbery investigated at Mount Olive Friendly Mart

An armed robber held a cashier at gunpoint and left with more than $600 in cash at the Friendly Mart on North Breazeale Avenue in Mount Olive Monday night. According to a report, at around 11 p.m., a man...

Thursday, June 29, 2017

911 recording offers new details surrounding death of Wayne County inmate

A recording of the 911 call placed May 20 from the Wayne County Detention Center revealed that  inmate Graydon Jermone Parker III, 54, was tazed before becoming unresponsive and not breathing. The recording obtained by the News-Argus goes on to...

Masked gunman robs Friendly Mart in Mount Olive

An armed robber held a cashier at gunpoint and left with more than $600 in cash at the Friendly Mart on North Breazeale Avenue in Mount Olive Monday night. According to a report, at around 11 p.m., a man -- ...

Police seek information in armed robbery incident

The Goldsboro police are seeking information in an armed robbery incident on the 500 block of Park Avenue on June 23. At around 8 p.m. June 23, the victim of the robbery was riding his bike east along Park Avenue...

Two face charges for allegedly cashing checks in local church's name

A man is wanted and a woman is facing charges after forging and cashing checks in a local church's name, according to a press release. Adrian Gules Holbrook, 26, of 118 Cedar Lane, is wanted on two counts of uttering...

Elder abuse: What it is and where to find resources in Wayne County

Elder abuse can be insidious and oftentimes unintentional but with the right information and resources it can be curbed, said the director of Wayne County Services on Aging Paula Edwards. In light of June being Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and...

News-Argus price changing

Effective July 1, your new subscription price will be $13.50 per month. The new three-month price is $40.50, six months is $81 and one year is $162. This is still at a very reasonable rate of only 52 cents per...

Moyers pleads guilty in 2016 shooting death

Matthew Craig Moyers will spend 72 to 99 months in prison after pleading guilty to voluntary manslaughter in the July 23, 2016, killing of 25-year-old Joshua Omar Forbes. Moyers, 25, of Dudley, took the plea earlier this month. He...

A step in the right direction

Chris Williams had not taken a step in over a year. A retired Marine, Williams, 55, had his left leg amputated below the knee due to diabetes in 2016. Since then, he had used a wheelchair to move around....

Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Senate passes amendment to keep open veterans cemeteries, governor's office argues long-term funding issue remains unsolved

As six-year-old Mathew Stallings was kneeling Thursday afternoon to place flowers at his grandfather's grave, politicians in Raleigh were busy jockeying to assign blame or take credit for funding the Eastern North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. The funding was not...

Woman charged after cutting a man with a blade at Berkeley Mall

A woman is facing charges after attacking a man with a blade at Berkeley Mall Friday night, according to a police report. Domonique Danielle McKinney, 31, of 921 W. Oak St., is charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon...

Worldwide eats: How to prepare spanakopita

Good recipes come from all over the globe, and the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base's Cooking Around the World camp is putting them to use. The camp ----  June 19 through 23 ---- gave children the chance to cook food...

Volunteers give Gov. Charles B. Aycock Birthplace a good going over

A group of men, mostly members of the local Sons of Confederate Veterans, volunteered a week of their time recently to clean parts of Gov. Charles B. Aycock Birthplace in Fremont. "We were working on the paths," said John Pippin...

WCC shortens pharmacy tech program

The pharmacy technology program at Wayne Community College has been shortened, with the possibility of earning a diploma in just nine months, officials said. The program, which prepares students to assist pharmacists and to take the National Pharmacy Technician...

Open registration dates announced at WCC

Wayne Community College officials announced open registration dates for fall college credit classes, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., July 19 and July 20; 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Aug. 15; and 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Aug. 16. Students are encouraged to register as soon as...

Man arrested for Memorial Day weekend shooting

A man is facing felony charges after being connected to a Memorial Day weekend shooting that injured one man. Jamario Deshawn Weeks, 27, of 1714 Harrell St., is charged with felony discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling or...

City continues to waive permit fees

Goldsboro residents needing permits for home repairs related to Hurricane Matthew damage will continue to receive the permits at no cost. The Goldsboro City Council Monday decided to continue waiving the cost all permit fees, including new construction, if...

Additional arrest in 100 pound marijuana seizure

A third man is facing charges after turning himself in following the seizure of 100 pounds of marijuana by authorities during a traffic stop June 20. Mark Jason Sharp, 47, of 120 Covey Drive, LaGrange, is charged with two...

Fourth of July closings

Local, state and federal offices, banks and post offices will be closed Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. Wayne County offices will be closed. The landfill in Dudley will be closed Tuesday, July 4, but will open Wednesday,...

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Police, community leaders meet to discuss problems

A lack of jobs, collaboration between community organizations and mistrust were several concerns that came to the forefront of a community police roundtable Tuesday night. The roundtable was organized by Operation Unite Goldsboro in an effort to bring decision-makers together...

Stopping the trade: Signs to look for to spot human trafficking

Pam Strickland, founder of Eastern North Carolina Stop Human Trafficking Now, said during a training session at WAGES Tuesday, that human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry in the world. But that doesn't mean it isn't a local issue....

Authorities shut down liquor house on Dail Street

Two men are facing charges after an investigation into a liquor house at 510 Dail St. Saturday, according to a press release. Marvin Lamont Grantham, 53, of 408 Johnson Branch Road, is charged with felony possession of cocaine, felony possession...

Cemetery concerns aired

It would be "absolute political suicide" for state lawmakers not to fund the Eastern North Carolina Veterans Cemetery, Wayne County GOP Chairman Wade Latham said. But at the same time he urged patience during the party's Monday night meeting...

Council approves fitness center, 5-2

The Goldsboro City Council was divided in its 5-2 vote Monday to hire Daniels and Daniels Construction Co. to build a 2,500-square-foot addition to the Seymour Johnson Air Force Base fitness center. The $641,542 contract was part of the council's...

Carver alumni gather

MOUNT OLIVE -- The Carver High School Alumni and Friends Association will hold its 35th reunion Friday, June 29 through Sunday, July 2. The association encourages former students and friends to join in the festive weekend events that will...

Bank robbery suspect caught

Goldsboro police have arrested a suspect in two robberies, and he is in the Wayne County Jail under $170,000 bond. Christopher Aaron Menane, 25, of Pecan Road in Dudley, is charged with robbing the PNC Bank on Spence Avenue...

Looking good

Recent rains have come at just the right time for the corn crop in the Wayne County area. Growers are looking forward to high yields come harvest time. This field off U.S. 117 South in Dudley shows robust plants that...

WorkKeys tests to be held in July

Wayne County residents will have just two opportunities to take the WorkKeys tests for the National Career Readiness Certificate in July. The Wayne Occupational Readiness Keys for Success, or WORKS, program will provide testing sessions July 12 from 12:30-4:30...

Teenager robbed at knife-point

Someone robbed a 16-year-old at knife-point while he was riding his bike on Park Avenue around 8 p.m. Friday, according to a police report. The report said the teenager was riding his bike in the 500 block of Park Avenue...

Arts Council of Wayne accepting artist project grant applications

The Arts Council of Wayne County is taking applications for the 2017/18 Regional Artist Project Grants. The program is done through a partnership with the North Carolina Arts Council and 29 local arts councils throughout eastern North Carolina working...

Monday, June 26, 2017

Woman faces charges after allegedly trying to conceal drugs

A woman is facing charges after allegedly trying to conceal drugs while acting like she was urinating during a traffic stop Saturday, according to a press release. Krystal Danielle Bryant, 32, of 1728-B Edgerton St., is charged with possession with...

Southern Wayne High to get new principal

Spring Creek Middle School Principal Kevin Smith will move to Southern Wayne High school in the 2017-2018 school year, replacing retiring Principal John Boldt, according to a Wayne County Public Schools press release. The Wayne County Board of Education approved...

Long distance calling

To the casual listener, it probably sounds like a different language. When amateur radio operators key up their mics, a string of words and numbers comes out as they respond to whoever they've made contact with. Words like "alpha," "November,"...

Sunday, June 25, 2017

Scramble on to find cemetery funds

Local leaders Sunday were hesitant to be critical of the Republican-controlled General Assembly for passing a budget that eliminated funding and positions for the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery. Rather, they expressed confidence that House Majority Leader John Bell of...

School's $2M included in state budget

A one-time $2 million funding supplement for Wayne County Public Schools is included in the budget approved Thursday afternoon by state lawmakers. It still has to be acted on by Gov. Roy Cooper. If the money remains through final budget...

Police: Teen robbed while riding his bike

Someone robbed a 16-year-old at knife-point while he was riding his bike on Park Avenue around 8 p.m. Friday, according to a police report. The report said the teenager was riding his bike in the 500 block of Park Avenue...

Youth triathlon held at Y

Orange cones and yellow caution tape were strung all over the Goldsboro Family YMCA parking lot Saturday. But it wasn't a crime scene. It was a youth triathlon. Approximately 80 children from ages 6 to 17 competed in the event,...

Public safety training center planned for county

The company designing Wayne County's new 911 center has been hired to also design a public safety training facility for fire, law enforcement and rescue personnel. The center will be built in a wooded area behind the Wayne Community...

City Council to consider addition to base fitness center

The Goldsboro City Council is set to consider a $641,452 contract to expand the fitness center at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base during its Monday meeting. The council also plans to review an economic incentive grant for a new business...

Working to make a difference

Erica Hobbs walked into the Lincoln Apartments public housing community with a vision of how to make her summer job count. Hired as an assistant to the property manager, Hobbs came up with the idea to start a new...

State cornhole championships held at Foster Center

Tyler Poythress first started playing cornhole in his high school gym class. "My baseball coach didn't want us playing basketball during that gym time because the risk of injury was too high, so we started playing cornhole," Poythress said. That...

Industry comes to Wayne County

A South African company plans to open its first U.S. location in Goldsboro, creating 60 jobs over three years while making a $2.48 million local investment. Stormberg Foods LLC., a producer of meat protein snacks, is in final negotiations...

KS Bank announces two promotions

KS Bank has announced two promotions. H. Geoffrey Kokiko has been promoted to chief banking officer. He will continue to have responsibility for the overall performance of the retail branch system as well as working with the lending officers...

Host families sought for foreign students

Host families are being sought for French students visiting eastern North Carolina as part of a student exchange program sponsored by East Carolina University. Four girls and a boy, ages 13-18, will be arriving on July 15. Wayne County...

Fremont town board sees budget increase

The Fremont Board of Aldermen approved its budget for the 2017-2018 fiscal year at its meeting Tuesday evening, and revisited the town's recently passed trash can ordinance. The $851,602 budget is an increase of around $11,000 from last year,...

Cookoff held at Busco Beach

George Edwards has always made his own grills. He built his first one when he was 16, after starting to help his father cook when he was only 12. On Saturday, he used a grill he had fashioned from an...

Wayne County Clerk of Courts unblemished after state audit

No discrepancies were found during an unprompted state audit of the Wayne County Clerk of Court's office conducted by the N.C. Office of the State Auditor. The clerk's office took in more than $8.2 million in cash in various...

Jasper Barber publishes book

Jasper E. Barber has published his second novel, "The Church at the Fork in the Road." Barber served as the deputy chief of public affairs for the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base from 1984 to 2001....

Learning while creating art

Taniyah Lane carefully traced the dog's face on the back of a clear glass plate. Then came the fun part -- picking just the right colors for her canine creation. She used yellow for part of the ears. For the...

Saturday, June 24, 2017

Veterans cemetery threatened

The Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery gates will be closed and locked next month. There will be no more burials there. Families will be unable to visit loved ones already buried in the cemetery that is less than two years...

Friday, June 23, 2017

MOUNT OLIVE MESSENGER: Kornegay to serve as District 3 representative on town board

MOUNT OLIVE -- Barbara R. Kornegay has been sworn in as the District 3 representative on the Mount Olive Town Board. She will complete the term of Commissioner Tom Preston who resigned effective May 31. Preston plans to move to...

WRIGHT TIMES: Airmen learn about the issues facing the LGBT community

June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month, and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base airmen are taking notice. A group of airmen gathered at Heritage Hall June 14 for a pride month observance event, where they learned about issues...

Woman arrested for allegedly exploiting her elderly grandmother

A Goldsboro woman was arrested today for allegedly exploiting her 86-year-old grandmother. Tiffany Marie Anstey, 33, 103 Buttercup Lane, was charged by the Wayne County Sheriff's Office with the exploitation of a disabled or elder adult through a position of...

Mount Olive police investigate attempted armed robbery

Mount Olive police are investigating an attempted armed robbery that happened earlier this month, which has led to one arrest. Demario Leach, 28, 410 S. Chesnut St., is charged with attempted armed robbery after a 27-year-old man reported the incident....

Weapons, drug charges filed after stop

An admission of drug possession during a traffic stop led to authorities finding a stolen firearm on June 16, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Derwin Lynn Little II, 27, of 3668 Wayne Memorial Drive, is charged with possession...

School board rejects modular classrooms

The Wayne County Board of Education rejected a plan to add six modular classrooms to Tommy's Road Elementary at a special called session Thursday, with three board members calling the measure a Band-Aid solution to overcrowding at the school....

Initiative focuses on minor offenses

A child throws a book at another student. Or maybe he or she verbally threatened someone. And now that student is standing in front of a judge in adult court facing criminal charges. District Court Judge Ericka James got...

Darksyde Entertainment opens

Mark Stevens is bringing his West Coast talents to the East Coast with the opening of Darksyde Entertainment on Simmons Street. Stevens, a Goldsboro city councilman, celebrated the reopening of the game development and animation company he helped create in...

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Hope revives as Mae's opens doors

SEVEN SPRINGS -- Bailey Tutor, 8, chomped on an ear of freshly cooked corn on the cob. At her side, her baby sister, Parker, 6, made short work of a large piece of homemade pineapple cake. The sisters and their...

Pikeville teen charged in stabbing

A 17-year-old is facing a felony charge after allegedly stabbing an 18-year-old in the arms and abdomen Wednesday night, according to a press release. Lee Roy Darden III, 17, of 437 Ivey Lane, Pikeville, is charged with felony assault with...

Mount Olive police investigate report of indecent exposure

Two children reported that a man exposed himself to them Monday, according to a Mount Olive police report. On Monday afternoon, a 12-year-old boy and 15-year-old girl went to Piggly Wiggly to purchase a few items when they noticed a...

Mentoring program seeks to pair 100 men with 100 at-risk boys

The violent crime that continues to plague the Goldsboro area led a group of community organizers to launch a mentoring program for young men. The 100 Fold program, planned to start in August, will connect 100 male mentors with 100...

Admission of drug possession leads to seizure of stolen firearm

An admission of drug possession during a traffic stop led to authorities finding a stolen firearm on June 16, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Derwin Lynn Little II, 27, of 3668 Wayne Memorial Drive, is charged with possession...

MOUNT OLIVE MESSENGER: Tag your pride, support for university

MOUNT OLIVE -- The University of Mount Olive has more than half of the 300 names it needs to petition the state to issue a license tag featuring its logo. If the drive gets 500 names, it does not have...

Bill designed to safeguard N.C. bases

The military is a $66 billion industry in North Carolina -- an economic engine that the state must safeguard, said Sen. Don Davis of Snow Hill. A bill co-sponsored by Davis calls for the state's Military Affairs Commission to...

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

GPAC hears from former criminal

Lisa Tindal has lived a hard life. A former street criminal, she also knows what it's like to live after leaving her past and working toward a better future. Tindal shared parts of her story and urged some of Wayne...

MOUNT OLIVE MESSENGER: Tournament play

The Mount Olive Parks and Recreation Department recently hosted three days of a 12-and-under baseball tournament at Daughtry Field. Teams from Mount Olive and across Wayne County participated in the tourney. The Trojans and Vipers from Mount Olive faced off...

Police seek information in breaking and entering of Lantern Inn

Authorities are asking for information in the breaking and entering of the Lantern Inn on Ash Street Monday. According to the Goldsboro Police Department, at around 5:15 a.m. Monday an employee from Lantern Inn reported that a man threw a...

UPDATE: Two men arrested after authorities find 100 pounds of marijuana

Two men were arrested Tuesday after a joint drug task force operation led to the seizure of around 100 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $500,000. William Russell Deeming Jr., 58, 2605 Pine Knoll Drive, Kinston, and...

Use caution in the water

It's officially summer. That means warm, carefree days -- often spent on the water. Be it on the lake, in the pool or in the ocean, use caution before diving in. Lt. Ian Barratt with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office...

Learning the science behind rockets

Emblazoned on Eggbert's side is a simple statement: "I will survive." Eggbert is a common, grocery-variety egg about to face a potentially life-ending event. A group of three children, Katie Raabe, 10, Tyndall Steele, 10, and Carly Gerringer, 9,...

Street widening project threatens properties

More than 80 parcels of property along North William Street (U.S. 117 North) will be affected by right of-way acquisition for a $21 million highway improvement plan. That property acquisition already is under way for the project that will...

State cornhole tournament returns

Some of the top cornhole players in the nation will visit Goldsboro this weekend to compete for state championship titles. The American Cornhole Association's fourth annual state tournament will be held Friday and Saturday at the W.A. Foster Center,...

School board awards building bid to firm

The Wayne County Board of Education made progress on the construction of the new Meadow Lane Elementary building at its special called session Tuesday, and made changes to its representation on the Wayne Community College Board of Trustees. The board...

New southern food restaurant to open in Pikeville

PIKEVILLE -- A new Southern-style restaurant, with a flair of soul food, is gearing up for a July 1 opening in Pikeville along U.S. 117. Southern Comfort Restaurant will open its doors at 6 a.m. and plans to operate seven...

Health-related essays earn teen scholarships

Three Wayne County teens brought up some worthwhile topics at a recent Board of Health meeting, earning them college scholarship money. The youth were finalists in the annual Charles T. Gibson Teen Public Health Leadership Essay Contest, named for a...

Commissioners adopt interim budget

A roughly $10.1 million interim spending plan was adopted by Wayne County commissioners Tuesday morning in an effort to forestall a 2.46-cent property tax increase. The stopgap measure was adopted as commissioners wait to see if state lawmakers preserve...

Arts council to host upcoming events

The Arts Council of Wayne County has two big events coming up soon. Its big summer event will be held in conjunction with First Friday Aug. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. It will be a hula party and Hawaiian...

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

100 pounds of marijuana seized by joint task force

A joint-drug task force operation seized approximately 100 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $500,000 during a traffic stop Tuesday. First Sgt. Mike Dawson of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office also serves as a task force officer...

Traffic stop leads to arrest of two gang members

Four men -- two of them validated gang members -- are facing felony charges after a traffic stop in West Haven Friday, according to a press release. Quentin Dean Jackson, 26, of 1313 N. Jefferson Ave.; Ormond Qudre Cobb, 26,...

Southern Wayne alumni create a scholarship opportunity

Classmates Rachell Carroll, Faith Leach and Angel Flow Williams remember the struggles of getting ready to go to college -- from filling out applications to securing financial aid and everything in between. The three were friends since primary school,...

Books and building

For the kids at the Wayne County Public Library's summer reading program, reading is the first step toward making Goldsboro a better place to live. More than 30 kids gathered at the library Monday for the program's first event...

Downtown loans available

The Downtown Goldsboro Development office is seeking applicants interested in receiving between $5,000 and $10,000 in revolving loan funds for projects that support downtown revitalization. The downtown revolving loan program has $30,000 available for projects that meet certain criteria,...

Schools publish student artwork, written creations

Wayne County Public Schools has published its annual collection of student artwork and written creations from every school. The 2016-2017 online book, Wayne Collection, has been released this week and is available at www.waynecountyschools.org. "We are excited to present...

Blood drives scheduled for Wayne area

Wayne County residents will have several opportunities to give blood in various locations around the county. A blood drive will be held today from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Beautancus Community Building on Beautancus Road near Mount Olive....

Monday, June 19, 2017

Sheriff's Office: Woman, teen beaten in home invasion

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office is investigating a home invasion that took place early this morning on Peele Road. According to a sheriff's office report, a 20-year-old and a 14-year-old were home at the time and told investigators they were...

Gang member charged in Saturday shooting on Slocumb Street

A validated gang member is facing charges after being arrested today for allegedly shooting a man at the Bees Town Grocery over the weekend, according to the Goldsboro Police Department. Labar Lee Leslie Jr., 20, of 403 W. Pine St.,...

Second teenager dies after being caught in a rip current June 10

EMERALD ISLE -- The second of two teenagers from Goldsboro who were caught in a rip current June 10 died this morning at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, according to a press release from the Emerald Isle Police Department. Tyresse...

Police: IHOP employees robbed leaving work

Two IHOP employees were robbed at gunpoint early Saturday morning as they left work, according to a police report. The report said the pair was leaving work around 1:15 a.m. when two people came out of the bushes brandishing handguns....

Hardware store opens in Pikeville

PIKEVILLE -- A longstanding auto parts store recently added hardware merchandise and moved into a building triple its size along U.S. 117 in Pikeville. Pikeville Auto and Hardware opened its doors Wednesday inside the former Dollar General box store,...

Married couple arrested for stabbing and thefts

A married couple is facing charges after authorities connected them to a stabbing and multiple thefts that took place earlier this month, according to a press release. Alexis Dominique Starkey, 23, of 163 Park Ridge Road, and Breyon Naijawon Starkey,...

Summer feeding programs available for children in city

For children in low-income families, summer can be the hungriest time of the year, but there are options throughout Goldsboro to help fill in the gaps. The end of the school year also means the end of free and reduced...

Three Goldsboro siblings and GHS graduates go on to earn doctoral degrees

Siblings Michael Johnson, Larry Johnson and Cynthia Johnson Reynolds all graduated from Goldsboro High School and went on to earn doctoral degrees. But early on, they were considered "at-risk," Mrs. Reynolds said. "We are first-generation college graduates from our family,"...

SBA loans available

Small Business Administration loans are available for businesses and homeowners whose properties were damaged during by the straight line winds and severe storms that struck Sampson County on May 29. Residents in adjacent counties -- Wayne, Duplin, Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett,...

Groups hold book drive

Communities in Schools, the Partnership for Children of Wayne County and Wayne County Public Library are holding a book drive they hope will bring in over a thousand books to distribute to children. "We're collecting new and gently used books...

Board to review $42M bond sale

Wayne County commissioners Tuesday will be updated on the sale of $42 million in bonds. The bulk, $32 million, is for the Maxwell Regional Agricultural and Convention Center ($12,042,604) and for a new Meadow Lane Elementary School and a...

Sunday, June 18, 2017

Dunkin' Donuts to open in about a month, prehiring in July

The former PNC Bank along North Berkeley Boulevard will soon look more like a Dunkin' Donuts as new paint, siding and signature brown and orange colors are added to the building. Dunkin' Donuts will open to the Goldsboro market by...

Youth triathlon slated for Saturday

Dr. Greg Nichols is passionate about children's health. Which is why the father of two -- a physician at Goldsboro OB/GYN and member of Goldsboro's triathlon team, Trifectas -- helped organize a youth version of the triathlon, a running,...

Air show brings in $20M to county

The 2017 Wings Over Wayne Air Show led to record attendance and an estimated economic impact of more than $20 million. The Goldsboro-Wayne Travel and Tourism office recently tallied the economic impact based on overnight travel and day visitors...

Caring community

As summer begins and kids are out of school, bringing the community together becomes more important than ever. That was clear Saturday, as dozens of people flocked to the West Haven community for the third Our Community Cares Fun...

Days of Action begins June 21

Local people will unite next week to make Wayne County a better place to live and work. The annual Days of Action, sponsored by United Way of Wayne County, will take place June 21 through 25. "It's a United...

Seven students earn SECU scholarships

Seven local high school seniors have each been awarded $10,000 four-year college scholarships by the State Employees Credit Union via the SECU Foundation. The $10,000 four-year scholarships are for study at one of the 16 campuses in the University...

Generator, gas range donated to Make a Difference Food Pantry

MOUNT OLIVE -- Paper flew as Mackenzie Hinson and her friends, Saylor and London Johnson, ripped into the large package. Moments later they tore into the second smaller gift. Mackenzie, 13, clapped and squealed with excitement as the gifts...

Saturday, June 17, 2017

Fun, food and family: Freedom Family Fun Day invites children to play

 Friendly competition was the theme of the day, as Goldsboro kids came together to play at Fairview Park for the Freedom Family Fun Day event. Organized by "Coach Freedom" Uhuru Ulyesse, the event was designed to bring together kids...

Man shot on South Slocumb Street

A man was airlifted to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville after being shot at Bees Town store at 905 S. Slocumb St. Saturday.Officers responded to a shots fired call at the store around 3 p.m. Saturday. The victim, 23-year-old Octavious...

Man arrested for firing into an occupied home in Pikeville

A man is in custody after allegedly shooting into an occupied home in early May, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office press release. Phillip Mathew Lownes, 34, of 4683 Buffalo Road in Selma is charged with two counts of...

Friday, June 16, 2017

Family owned

Like father, like son. Those words aptly describe Rick and Colin Coor, who have shadowed each other often over the years. Rick and his wife, Brenda Coor, a hospice nurse at 3HC, have three children, Eric, 30, who lives in...

Police find alleged armed robbery suspects still inside victim's home after he escapes, calls 911

A man escaped from his East New Hope Road home to a nearby gas station and called police Thursday morning to say several people attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Three men were arrested and charged after officers found them...

Police: Man punched, strangled and gouged the eyes of 54-year-old woman

A man allegedly strangled a 54-year-old woman, beat her on both sides of her body, punched her in the head and tried to gouge her eyes out Thursday night, according to a police report. Ransom Brock, 53, of 602 W....

Brave new world: New graduates of Southern Wayne High celebrate with family and friends

MOUNT OLIVE -- Broadway is a long way from the stage Southern Wayne High School's freshly minted graduates walked across Thursday night. But now that Olivia Simmons has made that walk she is ready to tackle the larger stage....

City parks and rec offer fishing trips for children

Getting 21 children to patiently wait on anything is ambitious at best, but the Goldsboro Parks and Recreation fishing camp is showing it can be done. The camp is the first of several sports camps Goldsboro Parks and Recreation...

County poised to adopt budget

Wayne County Manager George Wood says he is "cautiously optimistic" that $2 million in education funding for the county's schools will survive the state budget process. But just in case, he will have two budget options ready for Wayne...

Fun Day event slated for Saturday

Our Community Cares Fun Day will offer food, entertainment and connections to local resources Saturday at West Haven Apartments. The event, which is open to the public at no cost, is from 5 to 7 p.m. near the basketball...

Freedom Family Fun Day to be held at Fairview Park

Food and sports are two reliable ways to bring a community together. Saturday's Freedom Family Fun Day at Fairview Park promises to have plenty of both. Organized by Dillard Academy after-school coach Uhuru Ulyesse, the event will feature a three-on-three...

Thursday, June 15, 2017

Teenage girl injured in beating

A teenage girl was dragged out of a car near her home and assaulted by several people, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The report said the 17-year-old was riding in the backseat of a...

Shots fired at car, home

Someone shot into a house and car on Biltmore Drive multiple times early Thursday morning while people were inside the residence, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The report said two people were inside the...

Police say woman forged and cashed a check in her daughter's name

A woman forged her daughter's signature on a check she then cashed, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Rachel Lee Dennington, 39, 701 NW Center St., Mount Olive, is charged with forgery of endorsement, uttering a forged instrument and...

Shots fired at home on North George Street

A 67-year-old woman's home on North George Street was struck by gunfire three times Tuesday around noon, according to a police report. The report said the woman told police someone fired a gun at the handle of the screen door...

Golfing for students

Michelle Rogers and Debra Curl sit at the entrance of the Goldsboro Municipal Golf Course Wednesday morning, having a friendly conversation. When their golf cart becomes available, the women don't strap their clubs to the back and drive off....

Man stabbed

A 63-year-old man was stabbed in the back Tuesday night while helping another man change locks at his home, according to a report filed with the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. The report said the man was helping another 63-year-old man...

Wayne County Public Library offers summer reading programs

Summer is here, and that means Wayne County children will put their school books away for a few months. To help make sure they don't lose what they've learned during the school year, the Wayne County Public Library is...

Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Car hits Highway Patrol station

A driver was taken to Wayne Memorial Hospital Tuesday afternoon after a car struck the back of the Highway Patrol station on West Grantham Street. Officers said they think the driver accidentally stepped on the gas instead of the brakes....

Shots fired in failed robbery Monday

Police are investigating an armed robbery in which a man was shot at several times Monday afternoon at the corner of Juniper Street and South Andrews Avenue. Sgt. Dale Foster said someone got in 28-year-old Travis Earl Atkinson's car with...

Man charged with trafficking meth

A man is facing drug trafficking charges after local authorities were tipped off by the Coastal Narcotics Task Force that he was in possession of methamphetamine, according to a press release. Christopher Lee Cantrell, 31, of 440 Racetrack Road, LaGrange,...

UPDATE: Principal of Eastern Wayne talks about the loss of teen who drowned at Emerald Isle, condition of boy who remains in hospital

EMERALD ISLE -- Emerald Isle police confirmed that the body of 17-year-old Elijah Hinnant of Goldsboro was recovered about 8 a.m. Tuesday. The teenager was swept out to sea and drowned while swimming over the weekend. Emerald Isle Police Chief...

Southeastern Medical Oncology Center receives national certification

The staff at Southeastern Medical Oncology Center has received a national certification for what they've been doing all along -- providing quality service to cancer patients. The Quality Oncology Practice Initiative certification was set up by the American Society of...

New funeral home vows to be an 'oasis of hope'

Serenity Memorial Funeral Home and Cremations, LLC, wants to be an oasis of hope for those who have lost a loved one. The new business offers a combined 50 years of experience between founder and co-owner Dandrell Williams and...

State parks see boost in visits

SEVEN SPRINGS -- An estimated 195,000 to 215,000 people visit the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park annually -- an increase from just three years ago. Parks across the state are experiencing the same increase, especially in destination parks...

School celebrates its rich history

It was like old home week at Meadow Lane Elementary School on Tuesday morning, as more than 200 past and present teachers and staff gathered for a reunion of sorts. As the school anticipates a portion of the building...

Sheriff's Office could lose thousands

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office may see a loss in funds if the state removes the requirement for concealed carry permits. House Bill 746 would, with a few exceptions, remove North Carolina's requirement for some gun owners to acquire...

Area airports receive $12 million in state funds

Two area airports will share $12 million in state funding. The Duplin County Airport will receive $4 million for runway widening and improved lighting while the Kinston Regional Airport will get $8 million for runway and taxiway repaving. They...

Tuesday, June 13, 2017

Charles B. Aycock 2017 grads celebrate academic and athletic achievements

PIKEVILLE -- The Charles B. Aycock High School graduating class excelled in academics and athletics and was praised for its success during the 56th commencement ceremony Tuesday. "The accomplishments you have achieved are inspiring, and you should be proud of...

Bittersweet: Eastern Wayne High School graduates look back, forge ahead

Tekevian Williams patiently stood outside Eastern Wayne High School on Tuesday night as his mom, Sharon Williams, straightened his cap and gown before the graduation ceremony began. Nearby, his "godmom," Angie King, captured the moment with her camera. "I'm happy....

Rosewood salutatorian quotes Shia Labeouf: 'Don't just let your dreams be dreams'

The Rosewood High School class of 2017 took their first steps into the future Tuesday evening, as the school graduated 132 students in an outdoor ceremony. With friends and family ringing the Rosewood football field, the graduates sat in front...

Body of Wayne County teen swept out to sea is found

UPDATE -- Emerald Isle Police Department confirmed that the dead body of 17-year-old Elijah Hinnant of Goldsboro was recovered around 8:05 a.m. today. The teenager was swept out to sea while swimming over the weekend. Emerald Isle Police Chief Tony...

Street paving project to start soon

Construction could get underway within the next two weeks on a roughly $1.6 million street repair project in the Canterbury Village and North Creek subdivisions just north of Goldsboro. The start will come nearly two years after subdivision residents...

Fun in the sun

Going to the pool is a quintessential summer pastime, and the Herman Park Fun Bunch Camp is not missing out. The 38-kid camp took a trip to Mina Weil Pool on Monday, kicking off the Goldsboro Parks and Recreation...

Bedbugs found in Belk store at Berkeley Mall

Belk at Berkeley Mall has been aggressively handling a bedbug situation since a few of them were found in the store May 22. Andy Izquierdo, vice president of communications for Belk, said there were two isolated incidents where one was...

Four indicted for attempted murder

A Wayne County grand jury indicted four people on charges of attempted first-degree murder, armed robbery and kidnapping last week in connection with a gas station robbery that happened in 2016.Tyquellas Jaire Thompson, 19, of 2750 Big Daddy's Road, Pikeville;...

Man charged with manufacturing cocaine

A warrantless search of a man's home Wednesday who was on probation led to his being arrested on cocaine manufacturing charges, according to a press release. Jondre Terrell Spencer, 38, of 402 Sweeten Branch Road, Pikeville, is charged with manufacturing...

Drug charges filed after traffic stop

Officers pulled a man over Sunday on U.S. 70 East and spotted a mason jar with marijuana in it inside his glove box when he was retrieving paperwork to show the authorities, according to a press release. De'Aron Jerlvone Parks,...

Case Farms achieves safety milestone

Case Farms achieved a safety milestone on Thursday, May 5 , after working one million hours without experiencing an Occupational Safety and Health Administration recordable lost time accident at its Goldsboro processing facility. A fully-integrated poultry farming and processing...

Monday, June 12, 2017

Police say airman groped woman, then broke into her car to leave flowers

A 27-year-old airman stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is charged with felony breaking and entering a motor vehicle and misdemeanor sexual battery. William Alexander Daniel Byrd, of 123 Fallin Blvd. Apt. C6, is accused of breaking into a...

Man facing drug charges after calling authorities to unlock his car

A man is facing drug charges after he called authorities to help him unlock his car, and they discovered 114 grams of marijuana inside, according to a press release. Andrea Simone Hines, 46, of 709 Second St., is charged with...

Bird sanctuary: Couple creates a bird haven and birdwatchers' heaven

Linda and John Graybeal stand in their backyard on Todd Drive surrounded by blooming flowers, trees and birdhouses. As the smell of gardenias and jasmine saturate the morning air, the gentle sounds of chirping birds and gurgling from the small...

Person pistol whipped during armed robbery on James Street

One person was pistol whipped during an armed robbery on North James Street early this morning, according to a police report. The report said a man was asleep inside his bedroom at 703 N. James St. when someone forced his...

Students raise money to learn CPR

Mount Olive Middle School students' outstanding efforts to raise money for the American Heart Association netted them an prize that will help bolster their life-saving skills. The school was presented with a CPR kit during an assembly on Thursday...

City council members hit with vehicle tax debt

The Wayne County Tax Department has flagged unpaid vehicle tax bills for two members of the Goldsboro City Council. Councilman Mark Stevens recently received a letter from the tax office requesting payment for nearly $400 in unpaid taxes for...

Party leaders look ahead to 2018: Republicans

"I got tired of yelling at the television," Wade Latham says of his decision to become involved in local politics. "Instead of just sitting here getting mad and watching my blood pressure rise, why don't you get involved," Latham...

Party leaders look ahead to 2018: Democrats

Barbara Dantonio, a lifelong Democrat, used to have a simple approach to politics. "I used to think you went, you voted -- you supported your party by voting. You went home and just watched the results," she said. "But...

Sunday, June 11, 2017

Search called off for Wayne County teen swept out to sea

Updated at 3:15 p.m. The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its search for a missing 17-year-old from Wayne County who was seen entering the water at Emerald Isle Saturday afternoon but did not resurface. A 16-year-old was also swept out...

Permit waiver deadline extended

The waiver deadline for certain county building and inspection fees has been extended through June 30, 2018, for victims of last October's Hurricane Matthew. Wayne County commissioners approved the extension last week. The county initially waived all building permit...

Councilman's business cannot use summer job program youths

A Goldsboro councilman who asked city officials to start a new summer job program for teens also sought to have 12 jobs from the program. Yvonnia Moore, who co-owns The Ice Storm with Councilman Antonio Williams, applied to be a...

Summer graduation ceremony July 18

Summer graduates from Wayne County high schools will be able to celebrate earlier than usual this year, as Wayne County Public Schools is set to hold its first ever All-County summer graduation ceremony July 18. The ceremony is for students...

Scouts hold annual fundraiser

The Tuscarora Council of the Boy Scouts of America held its annual Friends of Scouting luncheon recently at the Walnut Creek Country Club. The event is a major fundraiser for the council and Scout officials said it was a...

Reward offered for Civil War-era rifle

A $1,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the recovery of a missing Civil War-era rifle. The Old Waynesborough Commission is offering the reward for the Fayetteville Armory Type II rifle that had been loaned to the...

Goodbye school, hello summer

Students wave to staff and teachers gathered in front of Northeast Elementary School during the bus roundup to celebrate the last day of school Friday....

Stackhouse takes over as medical director for Wayne County Health Department

The medical director for the Wayne County Health Department has retired, with another prominent local physician taking over the reins. Dr. Ashton Griffin, whose credentials included having a private practice and being a pediatrician, had been medical director since Sept....

Local Hallmark shop closing its doors after 41 years

One of the Berkeley Mall's original stores -- Toby's Hallmark Shop -- is closing after operating at the same location 41 years. Co-owners and brothers, Steve, Tim and Toby Brannan, decided to retire and expect the store to remain...

Foreign students in need of host families

Host families in the Wayne County area are being sought for foreign exchange students coming to the United States through the The Terra Lingua/Terre des Langues program, sponsored through East Carolina University. The program gives students from abroad a...

John H. Kerr III highway named

The five-mile section of the U.S. 70 Goldsboro Bypass from the Interstate 795 interchange to U.S. 13 has been designated as the John H. Kerr III Highway by the N.C. Board of Transportation. The late Kerr was one of...

Blue Notes to perform at Arts Council

The Blue Notes of Eastern Wayne High School will be the featured performers at the June Jazz event at the Arts Council of Wayne County. The free show will take place Friday, June 16 from 7 until 8:30 p.m. at...

Saturday, June 10, 2017

Spring Creek graduates ready for next step

MOUNT OLIVE  -- When it came to finding chewing gum at Spring Creek High School, Jamal Davis was the go-to guy. Saturday morning as the seniors waited to graduated, Davis was again the center of attention passing out sticks of...

Optimist Club of Goldsboro hosts summer fun day for kids

Brenda Newkirk sat in the shade watching her granddaughters Asia Burton, 7, and Zakiyah Burton, 10, frolic under the cooling spray of the large sprinkler Saturday morning. Mrs. Newkirk admitted she had thought about joining them -- she has in...

Mount Olive man to appear Monday, on 'Today'

MOUNT OLIVE -- When Kirstin Cornish learned about a Father's Day contest on the Today Show that featured a grilling component, it had her dad's name all over it. "I have a great dad and he deserves to win," she said....

Friday, June 9, 2017

Man who was reported missing is found in city

A man who was reported missing on June 5 was found today in Goldsboro after police asked for the public's help in finding him.Jerry Douglas Wilson Jr., 53, 700-A N. Claiborne St., was reported missing by a family member...

Two men charged with possession of meth

Two men were arrested on drug charges Thursday after officers found meth in their car, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office press release. According to the release, officers with the Aggressive Criminal Enforcement team were operating in southern Wayne...

Multiple reports of gunfire in the city

A woman's 2016 Toyota Camry was damaged by gunfire after someone shot at her car in the 200 block of Fussell Street Thursday at about 5:50 p.m., according to a police report. The report said officers were dispatched to the...

Goldsboro man reported missing

Police are asking for help finding a man reported missing by his family four days ago, according to a press release. Jerry Douglas Wilson Jr., 53, of 700-A N. Claiborne St., was reported missing by a family member in New...

Another arrest made in Kinston double homicide

KINSTON -- Kinston police announced this morning they have made another arrest in a May 31 double homicide that left an 18-year-old Goldsboro High School student dead, according to a press release. Nicolas Xavier Edwards, 18, of 306 W. Washington...

Red Cross honors volunteers

There was a lot of talk about numbers at the annual American Red Cross Recognition Event Thursday evening. It is the Wayne/Greene County Chapter's 100th anniversary this year. Regional Business Operations Officer Kimberly Berrier ran through a long timeline of...

Future of Goldsboro High School becomes concern

The transfer of Goldsboro High School Principal Robert Yelverton has some people at the school concerned for its future. Yelverton was one of six school administrators transferred Wednesday evening, moving from Goldsboro High to the principal position at Eastern...

County objects to regional DSS

Wayne County commissioners oppose a state plan to mandate consolidation of county departments of social services into 30 or fewer regional departments. It is a bad idea, commissioners said during their Tuesday morning session. They followed that denouncement by...

Fremont Scouts recognized

FREMONT -- The Fremont American Legion Post 184 honored a trio of Boy Scouts Tuesday evening, thanking them for a series of projects that revitalized the town's Boys & Girls Club building over a three-year time span. "It's been overdue,"...

Schools offer bus driver training

In preparation for the 2017-18 school year, the Wayne County public school system will hold a school bus driver training class June 20 through 22 at the Maintenance Auxiliary Training building at 1601 Salem Church Road. Bus driver training...

Thursday, June 8, 2017

Beer Browse and Buy event slated for Friday

The Downtown Goldsboro Merchants Association is offering a Beer Browse and Buy event Friday just in time for Father's Day. Dads will have the chance to visit downtown stores that have items for men and sample craft beer throughout the...

Man arrested for crack cocaine, marijuana

Joint patrols between the Goldsboro Police Department and Wayne County Sheriff's Office Wednesday night resulted in a man being arrested for crack cocaine and marijuana possession, according to a press release. Garrett Wood Sutton, 31, of 4262 U.S. 13 North,...

Man charged for possession of crack cocaine

Cooperative patrols between the Goldsboro Police Department and Wayne County Sheriff's Office in the city Wednesday night resulted in a man being arrested for crack cocaine possession, according to a press release. Al Ronnie Sampson, 56, of 430 Durham Lake...

Train hits Coca-Cola truck in Fremont

UPDATE --  One person was taken to the hospital with minor injuries after a CSX Train carrying 81 loaded train cars collided with a Coca-Cola truck at East Main and South Goldsboro streets in Fremont around 9:30 a.m. today. Fremont...

Police seek information in shooting on Elm Street

On Saturday, June 3, at approximately 10:09 p.m., officers with the Goldsboro Police Department responded to a call for shots being fired in the area of 908 E. Elm St. While responding to the area, officers were notified of a...

Wayne Community College to offer GED test prep sessions

Wayne Community College will offer special GED(r) test preparatory sessions this month. "GED(r) Exam Cram" will be held 9 a.m.-noon on Fridays, June 9-30. Each session is a full three-hour face-to-face class, not a drop-in situation, and will cover one...

Woman charged for possession of meth

Members of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Team found methamphetamine inside a woman's car during a traffic stop Saturday, according to a press release. The release said members of the ACE Team were patrolling U.S. 13 South...

Victim released from hospital

A 20-year-old man hospitalized in serious condition after being shot Saturday night has been released from the hospital. Maj. Anthony Carmon, head of the Goldsboro Police Department's Investigative Services Bureau, said Monday Tyshawn Dion Gardner had been released from...

Residents focus on reducing violence

Goldsboro leaders thanked residents Monday night for stepping forward and offering solutions to reduce violent crime in the city. Mark Colebrook, with Operation Unite Goldsboro, suggested several possibilities, including a teen curfew during the summer, midnight basketball and a...

Vigil in wake of shootings

Four photos of young adults killed from gunfire were set along the steps of Cornerstone Commons downtown, where people gathered to pray Wednesday. Mothers, fathers, teens, children and community leaders -- all from different walks of life -- filled the...

Wednesday, June 7, 2017

WCPS announces administrative changes, including Goldsboro High School

Goldsboro High School will again begin a new school year with a new principal come the start of the 2017-18 school year. Among six administrative changes announced in a 5 p.m. press release today was the transfer of principal Robert...

Citywide prayer vigil is slated for tonight

A youth-driven group is hosting a citywide prayer event tonight in response to the recent rash of killings in the Goldsboro area. The Impact City-Wide Prayer Night will take place at 6:45 p.m. in downtown Goldsboro at the Cornerstone...

Tax increase looms for county

The possibility of a 2.46 cent property tax increase to replace lost school funding thus far appears to have failed to generate any public backlash. During a Tuesday morning hearing on the roughly $150 million budget proposal, Dan and...

Still a few tassels left to turn

Five public school commencement ceremonies remain for the Class of 2017. The last day of classes for the bulk of students in Wayne County Public Schools will be this Friday. The first graduation, for Spring Creek High school, takes place...

A 'load' off their minds

Beginning June 16, volunteers will gather at the Ash Street Laundromat at 503 E. Ash St. from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., bringing hundreds of dollars in quarters to pay for loads of laundry. Tonya Jaime, with Laundry Love,...

An achievement to be especially proud of

James C. Thomas III, all decked out in a dark gray suit and tie, was bucking to run ahead of his parents down the hallway of Edgewood Community Developmental School on Tuesday night. It was, after all, his graduation day....

Town hall tackles safety, city projects and roads

Residents attending a Goldsboro Council town hall meeting Tuesday got answers about city projects, street maintenance, safety and other issues. The meeting at New Hope United Methodist Church drew about 50 people. The event was hosted by District 2 Councilman...

PNC Jazz Showcase, Arts Council part ways

The popular Wayne County Jazz Showcase that drew people from all walks of life and attracted well-known musicians to Goldsboro is changing. The showcase, held once a month at the Arts Council of Wayne County, held its final concert...

Tuesday, June 6, 2017

A community in mourning

Angel Howard holds her dead son's 2-month-old child in her arms. The tears flow freely down her face. Her message, though, is clear. "In order to get these types of results -- meaning a swift apprehension of the accused --...

Man arrested for manufacturing cocaine

A man is facing cocaine manufacturing charges after authorities executed a search warrant at his home, according to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Shannon Vontreal Scott, 37, of 102 Emmitt Drive, is charged with felony manufacturing cocaine, felony possession with...

Opening and closing times change for four public schools

The opening and closing times of four schools will shift in the 2017-18 school year, after the Wayne County Board of Education voted for the changes at its meeting Monday evening. Times for Carver Elementary, Eastern Wayne Elementary, Spring Creek...

Shots are fired into occupied car on East Ash Street

Someone shot into a man's car while he was sitting inside of it on East Ash Street Monday night, according to a police report. The report said the man was sitting inside his car at 718 E. Ash St. around...

Wayne Pregnancy Center expands in new location

Wayne Pregnancy Care Center is more than a ministry -- it's a community outreach, says executive director Beverly Weeks. Her heart breaks for some of the young people in this community, she says. And not just those with an...

ABC tightens grip on liquor houses

In the wake of a May 27 homicide, local law enforcement is working to shut down liquor houses in the city. William Darryl Braswell, 36, of Dudley, was shot to death at a liquor house at 235 Wayne Ave....

New hospital leadership looks to exceed patient expectations

Richard Smith scoots to the edge of his hospital bed and reaches out to take the hand of his visitor as he regales her with stories. They laugh like old friends as he talks of his time as an...

City budget approved

The Goldsboro City Council voted 5-2 in favor of its fiscal 2017-18 budget that includes a council pay increase and new stormwater fee but holds the line on the property taxes. No one on the council spoke about the...

Making a difference

MacKenzie Hinson, left, 13, the founder of the Make a Difference Food Pantry, is seen with a Ford F-250 pickup donated to the charity organization by the S.T. Wooten Co. Lee Motor Co. donated the maintenance on the truck. MacKenzie's...

Cause of barn fire under investigation

Authorities are investigating a barn fire off of U.S. 70 West that happened early Monday morning, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. A man returned home to 3580 U.S. 70 West Sunday around 11:30 p.m. and found...

Paddling for pennies

Kayakers at the U.S. 117 South boat landing prepare late Friday for the second leg of a three-day Raleigh-to-New Bern trip. They were part of the Paddling for Pennies annual fundraiser. Most of the participants were firemen from various...

Monday, June 5, 2017

Teens charged with selling drugs

Two teenagers are facing drug charges after the Wayne County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at their home Thursday, according to a press release. Videll Alexander Wright, 18, and Mikell Wright, 17, both of 104 Sedgefield Drive, are each...

Resident says his dog was shot at during break-in

Someone kicked in the front door of a home and shot at a dog early Saturday morning, according to a Wayne County Sheriff's Office report. The report said two people were asleep inside their home at 120 Peele Road when...

Supreme Court rules 28 state legislative districts gerrymandered, rules against special election

The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the lower court decision that struck down 28 state House and Senate districts. The Supreme Court deemed that the districts in question -- Wayne County's districts included -- violated the rights of black...

Gunman robs gas station on Millers Chapel Road

A gunman robbed the BP gas station at 113 Millers Chapel Road early Sunday morning, according to a police report. The report said a man entered the business around 12:45 a.m. through its west side door and then ducked down...

Ride for Vets

On Saturday, the Ride for Vets kicked off at Cooper's Tavern on North William Street. The event is a fundraiser to benefit   American Legion Post 11. About 50 bikers participated in the ride that raised $1,500....

School board to talk multiple policies

The Wayne County Board of Education will discuss changes to several policies at its meeting today, including grading scales, school schedules and student transfers. Following up on its May 25 work session, the board will take another look at...

Duke to provide energy upgrades

Duke Energy is getting ready to provide no-cost energy efficient upgrades to nearly 1,900 homes in Goldsboro. Residents have received notice of the opportunity, and Duke is hosting a meeting for the eligible residents on June 8, from 6 to...

Councilmen to hold town hall meeting

Goldsboro Councilmen Gene Aycock and Bill Broadaway plan to have a town hall meeting for residents living in Districts 2 and 6 on Tuesday, June 6. The meeting will be at New Hope United Methodist Church, 200 E. New...

Public to offer input on budget

The public will have the opportunity Tuesday morning to comment on Wayne County $157 million budget proposal that could include a 2.46 cent property tax increase. Whether the increase is needed will depend on the state budget. To that end...

Sunday, June 4, 2017

Man, 20, in serious condition after shooting

A 20-year-old man shot Saturday night remains in serious condition at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, according to a Goldsboro Police Department press release. The incident took place at 10:09 p.m. Police were called to the area of 908 E....

Fremont to host WCC classes

FREMONT -- Residents of Fremont will soon have access to higher education closer to home, as the town will partner with Wayne Community College to offer a series of college courses at locations in town. The classes start in...

Goldsboro police attend boy's sixth birthday party

It isn't uncommon for children to want to grow up to be a firefighter or police officer. But it is rare that officers take time out of their day to surprise a child at their birthday party. On Saturday,...

Pageant people's choice contest begins

The Miss North Carolina 2017 contest will be held next month in Raleigh, but you have the power to select a finalist. People's Choice voting is going on now, with the online option to select the 11th contestant to...

Council to vote on budget

The Goldsboro City Council is set to vote on its fiscal 2017-18 budget Monday that holds the line on property taxes but establishes a new stormwater fee. The budget vote is planned to take place during the council's regular...

Five earn Emmet and Mary Robinson Trust Fund scholarships

Five graduating seniors from Wayne County Public Schools have been chosen recipients of Emmet and Mary Robinson Trust Fund scholarships. The annual awards were set up by the Robinsons to benefit students attending public schools in the district and demonstrate...

Man faces 16 felonies for several break-ins

A 20-year-old is facing 16 felony charges after being connected to several break-ins that happened over the past several weeks, according to a press release from the Wayne County Sheriff's Office. Kaleb Kristofer Smith, of 303 Earl Drive, is...

Festival of learning

Herman Park came alive with music and color Saturday, as the Wayne County Partnership for Children hosted its annual Born Learning event. Hundreds of people congregated at the park for the free event, which was designed to introduce parents...

A passion that heals

Patty Westfield was working on a painting, something she had planned out in her mind before starting. But it wasn't working. "So I just put this color on my palette and thought it doesn't matter what I do now because...

Saturday, June 3, 2017

For the community: Princeton holds seventh annual Community Day

Hundreds came together at Princeton Elementary School Saturday morning, as the town held its seventh annual Community Day event. With the theme "Honoring Our Military," the event brought together a group of military personnel from the past and the present,...

Authorities arrest Pikeville man on drug charges

The Wayne County Sheriff's Office arrested a Pikeville man Thursday after finding 158 grams of cocaine. Deontario Montell Horne, 28, 155 Ivey Lane, Pikeville was charged with trafficking cocaine by possession after deputies recieved information concerning an alleged narcotic trafficker...

Friday, June 2, 2017

Operation Clean Slate: Taking back the city's street signs and buildings

People riding around the city this weekend might notice a common sight in Goldsboro has been removed. Officers with the Goldsboro Police Department and members of the community spent half the day Friday cleaning graffiti off of buildings, houses and...

School system looks at grade suppression changes

Wayne County Public Schools is in the process of updating its class retake policy, which will result in higher grades being retroactively added to some senior transcripts. The update introduces the practice of "grade suppression," through which a student can...

Sheriff's Office escapes budget cuts, WCC and Animal Control do not

Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce's roughly $9 million 2017-18 budget proposal survived the budget ax intact Wednesday afternoon despite nearly a hour of questioning about vehicles, uniforms, dive suits, overtime and other items. Wayne County Commissioner John Bell told his...

Wayne Community College to offer summer classes in Fremont

FREMONT ---- Residents of Fremont will soon have access to higher education closer to home, as the town will partner with Wayne Community College to offer a series of college courses at locations in town. The classes start in mid-June,...

County to adopt interim budget

Wayne County commissioners say they will adopt an interim budget in an effort to forestall a possible 2.46 cent property tax increase that would be needed to replace nearly $4 million in state school funding over the next two years....

Music for the military

Hundreds gathered downtown Thursday evening for the Center Street Jam Military Appreciation Day, coming together for music, family and a shared spirit of community. Mayor Chuck Allen made opening remarks, followed by Councilman David Ham, 4th Fighter Wing Commander Col....

Pesticide disposal Saturday

DUDLEY -- A Household Hazardous Waste and Pesticide Disposal Collection Day will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 3, at the county landfill/Dudley convenience site. County residents can bring unwanted and old pesticides that they would...

Fun Fly Saturday

The East Carolina Radio Control Club will sponsor a Fun Fly on Saturday, June 3, for members of the Academy of Model Aeronautics at Randy Webber Field at 4357 County Line Road near LaGrange. The event is free to the...

Thursday, June 1, 2017

Berkeley Mall evacuated at closing due to electrical short

Guests were asked to clear out of an already closing Berkeley Mall just before 9 p.m. Thursday as the Goldsboro Fire Department was called in to check out a sparking electrical outlet in the floor near a kiosk. Assistant Fire...

Criminal records for teen court grads to be expunged at Saturday event

Graduates of the Wayne County Teen Court program will have a rare opportunity Saturday. Those students who have successfully completed the program --  and who have not picked up another misdemeanor or felony charge since -- are eligible to have...

Washing away the grief

Darrick Smith did not know Desconte Makell Bryant. Nor did Smith's friend, Ernest Boney. They did not know Bryant's family, either. But when the two men heard the 18-year-old was shot and killed at 410 Hollowell St. Sunday morning, they...

Woman is injured after knife is thrown into her chest

Someone threw a knife into a woman's chest as she was taking her trash can to the street at about 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, according to a police report. The report said the 26-year-old woman was taking her trash can to...

15-year-old charged in double homicide

KINSTON -- Police announced during a press conference today that a 15-year-old male has been charged with two counts of murder following the shooting deaths of two people in Kinston Wednesday, one of whom was a Goldsboro teenager. Because of...

Police charge man in connection with 2016 shooting

Police charged a man Tuesday in connection to a shooting that happened in early 2016 at 1731-B E. Holly St. Malcolm Jamal Russell, 24, of 714 W. Chestnut St., is charged with two counts of felony possession of a firearm...

Police seek information in the shooting death of 18-year-old Desconte Bryant

On Sunday, May 28, at approximately 1 a.m., officers of the Goldsboro Police Department responded to 410 Hollowell St. in reference to a shooting. Officers located Desconte Bryant, an 18-year-old male and student of Goldsboro High School on the front...

Jam to recognize military members

The Center Street Jam series tonight will recognize members of the armed forces during its annual Military Appreciation night. The evening includes special activities and giveaways to celebrate members of the military and their families. "The Military Appreciation Center Street...

American Red Cross encourages preparation for hurricane season

Hurricane season is here -- and will last through the end of November. The American Red Cross recommends getting prepared now with a disaster preparedness kit. "Everybody should have a kit," said Kathy Jones, Red Cross disaster program specialist for...