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Etheridge Announces Bid For Governor
Former Second District US Congressman Bob Etheridge has announced he will run for NC Governor on the Democratic ticket.  Etheridge made the announcement Thursday after Erskine Bowles announced he would not run in the Democratic Primary for the Governor’s race.

Etheridge, the former state school superintendent, served 14 years in Congress before being upset by Republican Renee Ellmers of Dunn in 2010.  In a statement, Etheridge said, “My life’s work has been about improving the public education system in North Carolina. As we move forward, we must ensure we are making the key investments in public education, community colleges and the university system.”

"This election is about leadership. It’s about moving forward - not moving backward. I will be talking about our future and our commitment to move North Carolina forward. If we want a 21st century economy, we must have 21st century schools.”

Etheridge will have two formitable opponents in May: Lt. Governor Walter Dalton and NC lawmaker Bill Faison of Orange County. 

Susan G. Komen To Continue Funding Planned Parenthood
Rep. Ellmers says she is “disappointed” with decision

On Friday, three days after the Susan G. Komen Foundation announced they would pull funding from Planned Parenthood, the organization said they would continue to fund the organization and allow them to apply for future grants. 

In a Komen statement, the group apologized to Planned Parenthood.   

Second District US Congresswoman Renee Ellmers expressed her disappointed with the reversal saying, “I am deeply disappointed in the sudden reversal by the Komen Foundation of their original pledge to cut ties with Planned Parenthood - the nation's largest abortion provider. Their original stance to stop funding pending an important congressional investigation was an act of courage and prudence, making their sudden reversal today appear hollow and weak."
"As a nurse and mother, I will continue to champion the sanctity of life and women's health, regardless of contemporary trends…and sometimes that takes the courage to do what is right, not what is convenient."

In July, Congresswoman Ellmers hosted a press conference with Congressman Randy Hultgren following a report published by Americans United for Life that detailed extent of Planned Parenthood's involvement in providing abortions while receiving taxpayer funding. File photo


Man Charged With Sexually Assaulting Two Teen Girls
Authorities have made an arrest in connection with the alleged sexual assault of two 15 year-old girls. The incident happened New Year’s Day at a residence outside of Clayton. The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday arrested 22 year-old Jeremy Nathaniel Roberson of Raleigh on two counts of statutory rape and two counts of taking indecent liberties with a child.  The offenses involving the minors occurred at one of the victim’s home and involved the suspect allegedly having sex with both victims.
Roberson was placed in the Johnston County Jail under a $300,000 bond. 

Black History Month Events Planned At JCC
Johnston Community College is pleased to announce its eighth annual Black History Month celebration. All events throughout the month of February are free and open to the public.

Throughout the month of February, “A Reflection of Negro History Through the Eye of a Lens,” the private photography collection of Craig James, will be showcased in The Frank Creech Art Gallery. Students, faculty and staff, and the community are invited to view the exhibit which contains daguerreotypes, amber types, and tin types from the early 19th century from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays until Feb. 29.

On Feb. 15, students can participate in a Black History Quiz Bowl from noon until 2 p.m. The competition will be held in Room 160 of the Elsee Building.

A Black Business Expo will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22 in the lobby of the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium. Local businesses and health professionals will be on hand offering information about their products and services. To reserve a space for this event, please call Della McMillian at (919) 464-2282 or Jane K. Robbins at (919) 464-2380.

The popular Gospel Fest is planned for Sunday, Feb. 26 from 4 until 6 p.m. in the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium. This year’s program will feature traditional and modern soulful gospel music.

Woman Accused Of Trying To Smuggle Drugs To Inmate
Acting on a tip, narcotic agents with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office intercepted drugs as they were allegedly being smuggled to an inmate at Johnston Correctional Center in Smithfield on Thursday.  

A prison guard reportedly found 4 small bags of narcotics in the possession of 39 year-old Valenica Dawn Williams of Burlington.  Three of the bags contained suspected marijuana and one bag contained suspected cocaine, according to Tammy Amaon, Public Information Officer for the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said Williams was at the prison attempting to visit an inmate when the drugs were allegedly found in her pants pocket.    
Williams was arrested on six drug related offenses including possession of a controlled substance on prison grounds, possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, and conspiracy. She was transported to the Johnston County Jail where she was incarcerated under a $300,000 bond.

 

Highway Patrol Ends Two Day Distracted Driving Campaign
Troopers will continue to focus on distracted driving
The Highway Patrol has completed its two-day Distracted Driving Campaign. The campaign, which began on Wednesday, February 1, was focused on bringing awareness to the public on the dangers of distracted driving.

Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. Those distractions include texting, eating and drinking, grooming, reading, watching a video or adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player. Distracted driving endangers drivers, passengers and innocent by-standers alike.

In 2009, 5,474 people were killed in crashes involving driver distraction, and an estimated 448,000 were injured.

During the two-day event, Troopers worked I-40, I-85 and I-95 in the counties of Durham, Halifax, Granville, Johnston Nash, Vance, Wilson and Wake.

On Wednesday, along I-95 and I-40, 39 traffic citations were issued for numerous moving traffic violations including 12 speeding violations, 2 texting while driving violations, and 2 failing to move over for emergency vehicles.

In addition, Troopers issued 39 warnings, 16 of which were for texting while driving.

On Thursday, on I-40 and I-85, 23 traffic citations were issued for numerous moving violations such as careless and reckless driving and failing to move for emergency vehicles. Of the 23 citations, 3 texting while driving citations were given.  In addition, Troopers issued 50 warnings, 16 of which were for distracted driving.

Despite the two day campaign coming to an end, Troopers across the state will continue to monitor and enforce distracted driving violations when observed. Photo courtesy The Daily Record


DWI Charges Filed In Clayton Crash
A Clayton man is facing several charges following a hit and run accident Thursday night on US70, near the Pine Hollow Golf Course, outside of Clayton.  Shortly after 8pm, witnesses said a black Cadillac driven by Thomas Winstead struck a silver Nissan car being driven by an off-duty Clayton firefighter.  Winstead reportedly fled from the scene but was later located and arrested. Winstead was charged with driving while impaired and hit and run by the Highway Patrol.  No injuries were reported in the collision. Photo by Carter Rabil


NC Auto Insurance Companies Ask For No Rate Change
Department of Insurance to review filing

On Friday, Insurance Commissioner Wayne Goodwin today announced that the Department has received the annual auto insurance rate filing from the North Carolina Rate Bureau, which does not request any rate increases for the upcoming year.

The Rate Bureau, which is separate from the Department of Insurance and represents the auto insurance companies writing business in the state, filed for a rate review indicating no change in rates for private passenger cars and motorcycle insurance policies for 2012.
There has not been an insurance commissioner-approved increase in auto insurance rates in North Carolina in more than 15 years. In 2009, Goodwin signed a settlement ordering a rate decrease and refunds totaling more than $50 million for North Carolina drivers who were overcharged by insurance companies.

“The process by which we determine rates in North Carolina has helped keep our average auto insurance rates among the very lowest in the nation,” said Goodwin. “I am proud that we have a system in place that protects drivers from excessive rates.”

The current filing was received on Feb. 1 and will be reviewed by Department of Insurance staff members.

 

Rockslide Occurs On Closed Section Of I-40 West In NC
Travel to Western NC destinations remains unaffected

Around noon Friday, a rockslide occurred on Interstate 40 West at Mile Marker 7 in North Carolina, near the Tennessee border. This rockslide is not impacting travel on I-40 West because this section of I-40 West was already closed due to a rockslide in Tennessee. The eastbound lanes of I-40 in this area remain open and are not affected by the most recent slide.

N.C. Department of Transportation engineers are on the scene assessing the extent of the rockslide. Updates will be sent out as soon as more information is known.

Westbound traffic traveling from North Carolina to Tennessee may continue to use the signed detour routes currently in place for the I-40 West closure.

Western North Carolina destinations such as Asheville, Cherokee, Waynesville, Maggie Valley and North Carolina sections of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are still accessible via I-40 West without taking a detour. Only interstate travel into Tennessee is affected by the closure of I-40 West near the state line.

 

Volunteer Court Advocates Needed
Harbor, Inc., is in need of volunteer court advocates who will assist the victim's advocate and victims of domestic violence and sexual assault at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield.

Volunteer court advocates will review temporary restraining order paperwork, accompany victims to domestic court, and provide information on Harbor's services.

The volunteers will be trained and work under the direction of Harbor's victim advocate. 

Volunteers are especially needed on Monday’s and Friday’s. However, hours and days of volunteering can be flexible but dependability is a must.  Some knowledge of the criminal justice system is helpful.  Those who speak fluent Spanish are encouraged to apply.

These are excellent volunteer opportunities for retirees or students of paralegal, criminal justice, or nonprofit studies.

Harbor is Johnston County's only agency assisting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and women in transition.

For a volunteer application, contact Donna Jones at 919-938-3566.

 

Bartholomew Finishes Basic Training
Army National Guard Pvt. Sheldon D. Bartholomew has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received training in drill and ceremonies, weapons, map reading, tactics, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, core values and traditions.  Additional training included development of basic combat skills and battlefield operations and tactics, and experiencing use of various weapons and weapons defenses available to the infantry crewman.

Bartholomew is the son of Lois Bartholomew of McAuley Drive, Vicksburg, Miss.  He is a 2008 graduate of West Johnston High School near Benson.

 

Deputies Charge Suspect With Financial Card Fraud
Following an investigation into a stolen credit card, a Smithfield woman was charged Thursday will financial card fraud.  Johnston County deputies allege that 27 year-old April Marie Toler of Ray Drive, Smithfield stole a bank card from an acquaintance in October then used the card at two ATM’s to withdraw cash.  Toler was charged with two counts of financial card fraud. She was also served with six warrants for failing to appear in court on unrelated traffic charges, all for driving without a license. She was released on a $2,000 bond. 

 

Johnston’s Unemployment Numbers Climb
Johnston County’s unemployment rate increased in December, according to statistics released Wednesday by the NC Department of Commerce Labor and Economic Analysis Division.  Locally, the jobless rate climbed from 8.7 percent in November to 8.9 percent in December.  Overall, rates increased in 93 of the state’s 100 counties. Rates dropped in only 4, and were unchanged in 3 others.

Johnston was however one of 37 counties that was at or below the state’s unadjusted unemployment rate of 9.8 percent. 

Orange County had the state’s lowest unemployment rate of 6.1 percent in December. Wake County’s unemployment rate of 7.7 percent was the 7th lowest in NC.  Graham County had the highest at 17.5 percent.  Edgecombe County has the fourth highest jobless rate at 15.7 percent.

The statewide unemployment rate for January will be released on March 13. 

Residents Moved From Assisted Living Center Due To Rodent Infestation
Over a dozen residents at Autumn Wind Assisting Living on Highway 210 at County Home Road near Smithfield were removed Thursday after the owner was ordered to take care of a serious roach and mouse problem.

WRAL TV reports that problems with mice and cockroaches have been reported at Autumn Winds Assisted Living on Highway 210 dating back to 2007.

Ade Ganiyu bought the facility three years ago. WRAL reports Ganiyu hired an exterminator to resolve the pest problem, but officials said the facility needed a more thorough fumigation.

The owner voluntarily agreed to move residents to another assisted living center he operates in Kinston, the report said.  

Residents will only be allowed to return to Autumn Wind Assisted Living once a follow up inspection is completed and the problem has been addressed.  

Second Person Charged In Pill Theft Investigation
A second person has been charged in an investigation into stolen prescription pills from Carroll Pharmacy in Smithfield.  On Tuesday, Smithfield Police said the former store manager at the business, Kimberly Jane Smith, 27, was charged with stealing approximately 700 hydrocodone pills from the pharmacy after normal operating hours. 

On Wednesday, Johnston County sheriff’s narcotics agents searched Smith’s home on Baker’s Chapel Road and arrested her husband, Christopher Bryan Smith, 42, on felony trafficking, felony conspiracy, and felony charges of maintaining a dwelling to keep a controlled substance.

Sheriff’s Captain A.C. Fish said agents recovered approximately 600 of the stolen pills.  Captain Fish said it appeared the pills were for personal use, and that the couple was not reselling the painkillers.

Kimberly Smith was originally held under $150,000 bail, but on Tuesday was released on a $20,000 bond paid by a bail bondsman.    Christopher Smith was still in custody as of Thursday under a $225,000 bond. 

Search Continues For Kidnapping Victim
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to search for one of two men kidnapped at gunpoint Sunday night near Goldsboro.  One of the two victims, Israil Aquirre, 24, was able to escape and notify authorities early Monday. 

Sheriff’s investigators say that Aquirre has been cooperating with law enforcement authorities and that some details initially reported were inaccurate.  

It was originally reported that the suspect vehicle was a white SUV, possibly an Expedition and that they stopped the victim’s vehicle with red, blue and yellow flashing lights. The investigation now shows that this is not true. The suspect vehicle is now described as a possible 1999 Ford Extended Cab Pick-Up Truck with a camper shell.  The suspect vehicle flashed a white light at the victims, not a blue light, causing them to pull over. The suspect vehicle was occupied by 4 Hispanic and 3 black males.

Authorities have released a photo of the second victim, Geniro Jamis, (pictured above) in hopes someone may recognize his photo and know his whereabouts.  Anyone with information that may be pertaining to this case is asked to contact the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at 919-731-1481 or Wayne County Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255. 

Jim Perpich Leaving Johnston Health
A reception was held Wednesday night at the Ava Gardner Museum for Jim Perpich, Director of Marketing and Community Relations at Johnston Health. Perpich is leaving Johnston County to accept a new job with a medical firm near Detroit. The move also puts him closer to his family.  Perpich (far right) is pictured with Suzette Rodriquez and David Bunn, both with Johnston Health.  WTSB Photo 

Woman Arrested Following Drug Search
Narcotics agents with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office allegedly seized approximately a quarter pound of cocaine and several thousand dollars in cash after searching a home on New Creech Road outside of Selma on Wednesday.  The drugs had a potential street value of $4,500. Tierra Denise Stouffer, 30, was arrested on five drug related charges, including trafficking cocaine and maintaining a dwelling to keep a controlled substance.  Stouffer was incarcerated in the Johnston County Jail under a $127,000 bond.

Accused Meth Trafficker Jailed Under $1 Million Bond
Deputies reportedly seized a large amount of methamphetamine byproducts during a traffic stop on Baker’s Chapel Road near Princeton on Tuesday.  The driver, identified as William Joseph Hill, 24, of Quarterhouse Road, allowed officers to search his home where methamphetamine was located, according to Johnston County Sheriff’s Narcotics Captain A.C. Fish.

Hill was held under a $1 million bond, charged with trafficking methamphetamines.

Couple Accused Of Stealing, Pawning Guitar
A Four Oaks couple was arrested Wednesday after a roommate reported his guitar had been stolen and later pawned in Smithfield.  Christopher Justice told authorities he was leaving to go to California when he realized the musical instrument was missing, according to Tammy Amaon, spokesperson for the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.

Samantha Brooke Bryant, 23, and Shayne Robert Cline, 24, both of Elevation Road were charged with felony larceny, felony conspiracy, and felony obtaining property by false pretenses.  Cline was also served with warrants for failing to appear in court on a speeding violation and for driving on a revoked license charge.  Cline’s bail was set at $80,500. Bryant was jailed under an $80,000 bond.


 
Teens Charged With Vandalizing Patrol Car
Johnston County deputies have charged two Clayton teens with vandalizing a patrol car.  Deputies were called to a home on Ranch Road near Clayton Wednesday night for a disturbance. While inside the residence investigating the incident, the two teens allegedly threw rocks and a cement block, striking the cruiser.

Alex Scott Cavitt, 16, and Devin Omar Bradshaw, 16, both of 1521 Ranch Road, Clayton were charged with injury to property. Deputies also arrested a third teen at the location, Antrelle Keyaris Scott for simple assault stemming from the disturbance. 


Selma Man Accused Of Repeatedly Dialing 911
A Selma man was arrested early Thursday morning on charges of misusing the 911 system.  Deputies allege Eric Claxton Woodall, 33, of Jerry Road called the Johnston County 911 Center approximately 5 times and the Edgecombe County Communications Center about 10 times inquiring about a warrant.  Dispatchers told Woodall not to call back unless it was emergency, but he continued to dial, according to Tammy Amaon, Public Information Officer for the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.

When deputies arrived at Woodall’s address, they said he was intoxicated.  Woodall was charged with resisting a public officer and misuse of the 911 system.  He was also served with two warrants from Edgecombe County for failing to appear in court for driving on a revoked license and failing to secure a passenger under age 16.  Woodall was given a $6,000 bond.   

JCSO: Cocaine Found Hidden In Napkin
Officers said they had to struggle with the driver of a car stopped for a traffic violation on Wendell Road in northern Johnston County on Wednesday.

Dexter Durane Henry, 37, of West Oak Street, Selma was driving the car when it was stopped, officers said.  Henry allegedly had a napkin clutched in his hand that he refused to give to officers, and then he tried to flee on foot.  Deputies said the napkin contained 0.6 grams of suspected cocaine.  Henry was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and resisting a public officer. Henry was taken to the Johnston County Jail where he was incarcerated under a $17,500 bond.  

Smithfield Police Make Burglary Arrest
Smithfield Police have charged a North Street resident with breaking into a home at 507 Hancock Street stealing tools, a radio and a bicycle.  Michael Dennis Moore, 51, was arrested Monday on an outstanding warrant. Officers located several items in Moore’s possession they thought might have been stolen.  The following day the break-in was reported by the homeowner.  Police said they recovered $70 of the $335 worth of items taken.  Moore was charged with felony breaking and entering and felony larceny.  Moore was confined under a $40,000 secured bond.

 

Caterpillar To Add 199 Jobs In Clayton
Jobs to be added over the next 5 years

Gov. Bev Perdue announced Wednesday that Caterpillar Inc., the largest maker of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines in the world, will expand its manufacturing facilities in Clayton. The company plans to create 199 jobs over the next five years and invest $33 million.  The project was made possible in part by state grants from the Job Development Investment Grant program and One North Carolina Fund.

“Creating jobs is my top priority,” Gov. Perdue said. “And the fact that globally competitive companies continue to make investments like these in North Carolina proves that our legacy of investing in education and worker training has paid off. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable workforce will serve Caterpillar’s advanced manufacturing needs well.”

In Clayton, Caterpillar will expand its existing operations, which are part of Caterpillar’s Building Construction Products (BCP) Division.  Upon completion, the Clayton facility will be the world source for several models of small wheel loaders produced by Caterpillar.  In addition, engineering and design work for BCP products will take place at a new engineering and test facility near Caterpillar’s Clayton manufacturing facility.

“As we see global demand for our products increase, we continue to make long-term investments like this in our facilities to help meet customer needs,” said Mary Bell, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for the Building Construction Products Division.
While individual wages for jobs will vary by job function, the overall average for the new jobs will be $41,466, plus benefits. The average annual wage in Johnston County is $31,460.

To help facilitate this expansion, the company has been awarded a $400,000 grant from the state’s One North Carolina Fund. 

Also, the state Economic Investment Committee voted Wednesday to award a Job Development Investment Grant to Caterpillar. JDIGs are awarded only to new and expanding businesses and industrial projects whose benefits exceed the costs to the state and which would not be undertaken in North Carolina without the grant.

Under the terms of the JDIG, the company is eligible to receive a grant equal to 65 percent of the state personal income withholding taxes derived from the creation of new jobs for each of the 9 years in which the company meets annual performance targets. If Caterpillar meets the targets called for under the agreement and sustains them for 9 years, the JDIG could yield $1.644 million in maximum benefits for the company.

In addition, up to $548,000 could be added to the state’s Utility Fund for infrastructure improvements in economically distressed counties. When a JDIG is awarded in Tier 3 counties such as Johnston, 25 percent of the grant is allocated to this fund to encourage economic development in less prosperous areas.

Other partners who assisted with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Department of Transportation, N.C. Community Colleges, Johnston County, the Town of Clayton, and the N.C. Rural Economic Development Center.

In December 2008, Caterpillar announced hundreds of workers at their plants in Clayton and Sanford would be laid off, citing a “challenging global business environment.”  Officials never publicly disclosed the exact number of workers impacted at the two local facilities. 

 

Citizen Files Petition Seeking Removal Of Magistrate
WTSB News has learned a formal request has been filed with Johnston County Clerk of Court Will Crocker seeking the removal of Magistrate Sam Blake.  Blake, who was charged by the SBI on January 23 with threatening to kill David Person, has been ordered to appear in District Court on those charges February 27.

On Monday, Candy Pinkus of Clayton filed a request with Crocker, who in turn forwarded the petition to Chief District Court Judge Albert A. Corbett Jr. According to public records obtained by WTSB News, Magistrate Blake has received more than 20 complaints in the past 10 years, including a complaint in February 2011 by Pinkus.

Last year, Pinkus complained Blake was “rude” and “disrespectful” when she called seeking information.  Blake responded to the complaint in writing on March 2, 2011 by saying Pinkus was “argumentative and wanted to debate everything I said.”  Blake went on to say, “I am glad he pays his taxes as I do myself, but paying taxes does not give him or anyone else the right to talk to me, or any other magistrate, like we owe him something….He is welcome to write another complaint and I will respond to that as well.” 

Under state law, grounds for dismissing a magistrate are the same as those of a judge.  Judge Corbett has the authority to call for a hearing seeking the removal of Blake, if upon examination of the sworn charges, finds that the charges, if true, constitute grounds for removal, according to NC General Statute 7A-173.  The hearing, if called for, must take place within 10 days but no more than 30 days after the magistrate has received a copy of the charges.  A magistrate has the right to appeal any order for removal.  Judge Corbett also has the authority to suspend a magistrate from performing the duties of office until a final determination of the charges on the merits, according to state law. Facebook photo
  

Johnston Health's Board Of Commissioners Still Exploring Affiliation
Johnston Health’s Board of Commissioners announced Wednesday that are still exploring the possibility of affiliation or a closer operating partnership to better assist in the delivery of health care to the residents of Johnston County.

The goal of a possible affiliation, announced last November, is to allow the health system in Johnston County to become stronger. During the past eighteen months, the Board said they have been able to grow and improve operations despite a downturn in the general economy. It was accomplished by adjusting cost structures, improving revenues, and attaining national quality benchmarks.

No time frame has been established in completing the process or making decisions.

Officials released the following information in a press release on Wednesday:

“Given the increasing complexities of the health care industry, the ongoing economic conditions, and the rising demand for health care services as the population continues to grow and age, it is only prudent that the Board examine the best alternatives to position Johnston Health for the future. The Board has undertaken this task with appropriate diligence and deliberation, and with no foregone conclusions about the outcome or timeframe for decision making. 

The Board and all Johnston Health representatives are committed to respecting the strategic nature of the process, as well as the confidential information submitted by interested parties. As such, we will continue to abide by confidentiality agreements signed with the interested parties.

At the same time, we remain committed to keeping the medical staff, employees, and the community informed throughout the process.  At present, the initial information that was received is still being evaluated and there has been no additional action taken at this time. 

We appreciate your patience and continued support as we work through this multi-faceted process.”

Last year, officials said a merger might help speed up construction and add beds at Johnston Medical Center in Clayton. 

The Johnston County Commissioners owns the physical assets of Johnston Health and they would need to approve any agreement that would affect ownership of those assets.

Hospital officials said it is too early to anticipate how a merger or affiliation would affect the medical staff, policies, or worker benefits.   

Johnston Health is the county’s health care system. It includes Johnston Medical Center-Smithfield, a 179-bed acute care hospital, and Johnston Medical Center-Clayton, an outpatient campus that includes a freestanding emergency department, same-day surgery and diagnostic imaging departments. Johnston Health also has primary care practices in Clayton and Kenly and an urgent care in Smithfield.
 

Driver Injured After Striking Utility Pole
Johnston County paramedics and Meadow fire crews responded to a single vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon at the 3000 block of Woods Crossroads Road, near Dragstrip Road, outside of Benson.

Eyewitness Kimberly Young said the driver, Henry Smith, was ejected some 40 feet away. State Trooper R.W. Murphy said the driver, in his mid-60s, apparently ran off the roadway, overcorrected and wrapped his truck around the electrical pole, which snapped during the collision. Mr. Smith was transported to WakeMed for treatment.

Progress Energy officials were called in to replace the power pole and to restore service to nearby customers. Trooper Murphy said no charges against the driver had yet been filed. Courtesy The Daily Record

 

Clayton High Arts Club Donates $250 To Artists In Schools Program

Pictured left to right: Darlene Williford, Executive Director, JCAC; Jane Roberts, Art Teacher, Clayton High School; and Ann Weaver, Chairperson, JCAC's Artist in the Schools Program.

Jane Roberts presented a check for $250 on behalf of the Clayton High School Art Club to the Johnston County Arts Council for their Artists in the Schools Program. The funding was provided from the Art Club's Chair Auction, which features hand painted chairs created by art club members.

Artists in the Schools is comprehensive arts in education program is designed to utilize the arts to reinforce and expand basic curriculum through exposure to performances, hands-on workshops, and residencies with professional artists. AITS is available to all schools for the enrichment of the lives of all Johnston County students, grades K-12. The Artists-in-the-Schools program focuses on the arts as a tool for learning and cultural enrichment. Programs involve visual artists, musicians, writers, dramatists/actors/puppeteers, and dancers.

Since its inception in 1999, Artists-in-the-Schools has… 
• Funded over 1,300 cultural events for Johnston County Schools 
• Placed more than 175 artists from around the world in the schools 
• Raised over $1,240,000 for the Artists-in-the-Schools program

The arts provide a way for children to develop the critical and creative thinking skills they will need to compete in real world situations. Research shows that arts-infused instruction builds parental involvement, encourages self-esteem, instills community values and increases student achievement both in the classroom and on standardized tests.

Princeton Man Charged With 4th DWI
Selma Police have charged a Princeton man with his fourth DWI offense.  Bobby Avery, 32, was arrested Jan. 24 during a traffic stop on Highway 96.  Police said they pulled over Avery’s vehicle after noticing it swerving on the highway.  Avery was charged with driving while impaired, habitual drunk driving, and driving on a revoked license. According to police reports, Avery has been convicted of driving drunk on three previous occasions.  He was released on a $6,500 bond.

Two Clerks Cited For Selling Alcohol To Minor
Two Selma store clerks were charged last week with selling alcohol to a minor. Selma Police Captain R.A. Cooper said officers sent a 16 year-old female into all 18 stores in town that is licensed to sell alcohol.  The teen was not allowed to purchase beer at 16 stores, but Captain Cooper said the underage teen was successful in buying a six pack of beer at the Food Lion on South Pollock Street and a four pack of beer at A&H Kwik Mart on Webb Street.  Both clerks were cited by police, and ALE agents were notified of the charges.       

 

Police Searching For Missing Man
The Raleigh Police Department is continuing its efforts to locate Roman Green Jr., 64, who was reported missing on Jan. 23 and is still the focus of a subject Silver Alert issued last month.

Green is a black male who stands about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs about 135 pounds. He sometimes wears eyeglasses.

Green has a cognitive impairment, and he takes medication that he may not have with him. He was last seen by family members approximately two weeks ago at his residence in the 1600 block of Pender Street.

Anyone who knows Green’s present whereabouts or who believes they may have seen him is asked to call either 911 or the Raleigh Police Tip Line at 919-834-HELP.

 

 

Bindhu Pamarthi Crowned Miss Johnston County 2012
Bindhu Pamarthi, daughter of Latha Pamarthi of Cary, was crowned Miss Johnston County on December 17 at the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium on the campus of Johnston Community College in Smithfield.  She is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill majoring in Political Science and Psychology. 

Bindhu's platform deals with promoting cruelty-free cosmetics and conflict-free minerals.  She aims to raise awareness about the unethical production of commodities and address human rights violations in the Congo as well as animal cruelty through advocating for informed consumerism. 

This summer, Bindhu will compete for the coveted title of Miss North Carolina 2012. The pageant will be broadcast live on Time Warner Cable, Channel 14 from Memorial Auditorium in Raleigh from June 19-23.


Pharmacy Store Manager Charged In Pill Theft
The store manager at a local pharmacy has been arrested on embezzlement charges. On Tuesday, Smithfield Police announced the arrest of 27 year-old Kimberly Smith of Smithfield. Smith, a former office manager at Carroll Pharmacy at 840 South Brightleaf Boulevard, is accused of stealing approximately 700 hydrocodone pills from the business after office hours. The alleged theft was captured on a video surveillance camera.  Smith is also suspected of taking an additional 800 pills, according to police Lt. Keith Powell.

Smith was charged with embezzlement and trafficking a controlled substance. She was confined in the Johnston County Jail under a $150,000 bond. Lt. Powell said the investigation is still continuing by detectives and additional charges against Smith have not been ruled out.


Man Arrested On Insurance Fraud Charges
Felony charges have been filed against a man authorities say reported his lawn equipment stolen when it fact it wasn’t.  Jonathan Chad Williams, 36, of Pikeville reportedly filed a claim with his insurance company after reporting the theft, according to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. In fact, authorities said Williams sold the equipment.  Williams was charged with insurance fraud, obtaining property by false pretenses, and failing to provide a vehicle title at the time of sale.  NC DMV inspectors assisted the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.    

South Johnston Student Wins State Gymnastics Award

Jamie Monique Barbour, a junior at South Johnston High School took the title of 2012 North Carolina High School State Gymnastics All- Around Champion on Saturday, January 28th, at the Raleigh School of Gymnastics. Jamie competed against 57 other gymnasts to earn her title. Her stats were 9.8- floor (1st place), 9.8 beam, 9.7-vault (both 2nd Place) and 9.5-bars. Jamie has trained at Morgan’s gymnastics for the past 8 years and is a level 10 gymnast. When asked what it takes to be a First Place All Around Champion, Jamie replies,   “A lot of practice, sacrifice, prayers, and coaches that believe in you.”

 

JCSO: Drugs Found After Driver Stopped For Not Wearing Seat Belt
Johnston County SAFE Team deputies arrested two Kenly residents on felony drug charges following a traffic stop for a seat belt violation Monday on Bluegrass Road, outside of Selma.  The driver, Trevor Martin Freeman, 21, of Hinnant Edgerton Road, (left) and a passenger, Britany Michelle Joyner, 23, of Beaulahtown Road, (right) were arrested after deputies seized 8 bags of marijuana, 14 doses of hydrocodone, digital scales and a glass smoking pipe from the vehicle, according to Tammy Amaon, sheriff’s office spokesperson. Altogether, Amaon said the marijuana weighed a total of 45 grams. 

Freeman was charged with maintaining a vehicle to keep a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell or deliver a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was given a $40,750 bond. Joyner was charged with trafficking a controlled substance. Her bail was set at $40,000.


3 Sought In Home Invasion
A 61 year-old woman and her grandson were not injured during a home invasion Monday night near Clayton. Around 8pm, authorities said three men burst into the residence on Whispering Pines Drive.  One of the suspects was possibly armed with a gun, the other with a pool stick.  One of the suspects pushed the woman once inside the home. After staying in the residence for approximately 5 minutes, the intruders then fled.  Detectives with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene Monday night and on Tuesday were still investigating the case.   

JCC Student Receives Writing Honor

Lance Gooden, a Phi Theta Kappa advisor at JCC, congratulates Allen Strader, right, on his short story being published in the international honor society’s anthology.

A short story written by a Johnston Community College student has been chosen for publication in the 2011 edition of Phi Theta Kappa’s, Nota Bene, the society’s honors anthology.

Floyd Allen Strader’s Charlie’s Watch was one of 16 entries selected out of 950 submitted for the publication. A resident of the Cleveland community, Strader is a student in Wells Fargo Partnership East, a teaching degree program offered through East Carolina University and North Carolina community colleges.

Strader’s short story is based on a real watch he received from his grandmother whom he did not know well and the unexpected gift’s connection and meaning to him.

“I enjoy writing, and I enjoy getting thoughts out of my head and onto paper in a way that people may like,” said Strader, who plans to become a middle school math and science teacher. “The story affects me personally, but to hear that something you’ve written is enjoyed by educated strangers is humbling and puts a big grin on your face.”

An Ohio native, Strader worked many years in construction before being laid off and then enrolling at JCC in 2009. “JCC has given me a new start,” Strader said. “With the help and support of the instructors, I not only have knowledge but confidence in my abilities.”

PTK is the international honor society of two-year colleges. Nota Bene was founded in 1994 to showcase exceptional writing among community college students. Copies of Nota Bene are distributed to all community college libraries and to Phi Theta Kappa leaders.

“We are very proud of Allen’s recognition and his excellent representation of Johnston Community College in this national literary competition,” said Lance Gooden, co-advisor of the college’s PTK chapter and math instructor at JCC. “Allen is an outstanding student, and we wish him well in his pursuit of a teaching career.”

Strader will receive a $500 scholarship award for his exceptional writing.

 

Local Parents Meet With State Public Instruction Officials

Angela Quick, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, with the NC DPI (far right) speaks with parents Monday in Smithfield.

On January 30th, more than 30 parents from across Johnston County Schools gathered at JCS Central Services to provide suggestions for the NC Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) as they strive to improve school performance reports to make them more “parent friendly”.

Currently, NC DPI produces an online State Report Card that provides information to parents about school safety, student performance, and teacher quality. This report is housed on the NC DPI website and is linked to the JCS website on the "News Tab" (Student Performance). Suggestions included video tutorials on how to read the Report Card, definitions of terms that pop up when a mouse hovers over the terms, sorting features, multi-lingual translations, etc.

 

NC Unemployment Rate Drops To 9.9 Percent
The number of people unemployed in North Carolina decreased in December as the unemployment rate dropped one-tenth of a percent, from 10 to 9.9 percent.

NC Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Dale Carroll said, “Looking at the private sector over-the-year, we are seeing some moderate signs of improvement.”

Since December 2010, private sector jobs have increased by 29,400. Over the year, the leisure and hospitality industry has had the largest job gain with 11,800.  Total non-farm industry employment decreased slightly by 4,400 but was up 19,600 over-the-year.

The number of people unemployed in December was 446,402 a decrease of 5,193.  The state unemployment rate in December 2010 was 9.8 percent.    

3 Bound With Duct Tape During Smithfield Home Invasion
Smithfield Police are investigating a home invasion early Saturday on Towbridge Street.  Police said three black males, two of whom were armed with guns, entered the residence and bound the three occupants with duct tape.  The victims included a 23 year-old woman, 25 year-old man, and 26 year-old woman. 

Lt. Keith Powell said the suspect then stole three cell phones and an undisclosed amount of money from the home before fleeing.  No injuries were reported. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Smithfield Police Tip Line at 919-989-8835. 

 

Kenly Man Accused Of Torching Own Home
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office has charged a Kenly man with burning his own home.  Jeremy Xylon Howell, 24, was arrested Friday, four days after his home at 142 Old Pebble Lane, outside of Kenly was destroyed by flames. 

Howell was charged with burning an unoccupied building, burning personal property, and fraudulently burning a dwelling. Bail was set at $100,000. Investigators said they have still not been able to determine a motive for the fire. No one was at home when the blaze was reported.  Photo by Carter Rabil

Man Charged With Setting Two Fires
Wayne County sheriff’s detectives have charged a Goldsboro man with intentionally starting two fires on December 27 that burned a building and truck on Nahunta Road.  Mitchell Ray Bragg, 25, of Ferry Bridge Road, was charged with two counts of felony burning property.  He was held under a $12,500 bond. The Nahunta Volunteer Fire Department extinguished the fires.  

 

Smithfield Man Charged Under Run & You Are Done State Law
A Smithfield man was arrested and his vehicle seized following a brief chase with Smithfield Police Saturday morning along US70 near Interstate 95.  Police said the driver, identified as 35 year-old James Forrester Dees of Cherokee Circle, managed to elude arrest but not before an officer allegedly recognized Dees as the driver.  Officers later found his 1999 GMC Yukon on John Drive and seized the SUV under the new Run and You Are Done state law.  Dees was arrested and charged with felony fleeing to elude arrest. He was given a $25,000 bond. 

 

DOT To Host Public Meetings For Proposed I-95 Improvements
Meetings to take place in communities along the interstate

The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold a series of public meetings from Feb. 7 through Feb. 27 in communities along the I-95 corridor to provide information on the proposed plans to improve the interstate through North Carolina.

The informal meetings will take place in Lumberton, Weldon, Rocky Mount, Smithfield, Wilson, Dunn and Fayetteville. Interested citizens may drop by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to view project information, maps and the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study Environmental Assessment. NCDOT representatives will be available to answer questions about the project. The opportunity to submit written comments or questions will also be provided.

NCDOT has received final approval from the Federal Highway Administration on the Environmental Assessment of the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study. The study began in 2009 and focuses on improving the safety, connectivity and efficiency of all 182 miles of I-95 through North Carolina.

For a complete list of meeting dates and locations, as well as locations where the Environmental Assessment can be viewed, go to www.driving95.com. Locations to view the assessment are also available by calling 1-877-I95-VIEW.

Locally, the DOT will host a public meeting in Smithfield on Monday, February 20 at the Paul A. Johnston Auditorium on the campus of Johnston Community College.  On Tuesday, February 21, the DOT will meet with residents at the Bill Ellis Convention Center on Forrest Hills Road in Wilson. And on Thursday, February 23, officials will gather comments at the Dunn Community Center on Jackson Road in Dunn. WTSB File Photo

Heritage Center’s Annual Patrons Dinner Helps Raise $24,550

Novelist and keynote speaker Lee Smith (right) greets musicians Shelby & Linda Stephenson as Heritage Commission Chair Mary Nell Ferguson looks on.

The Heritage Center's Contributing Patrons Appreciation Dinner held January 26 celebrated the successful completion of the Johnston County Heritage Commission's fund-raising campaign for 2011-2012.

This year's drive brought in cash donations of $24,550 – funds that augment the Heritage Center's operating budget, the basis of which is provided by Johnston County Government.

Noted Southern novelist Lee Smith was keynote speaker for the event, under the theme of “Everybody Has A Story To Tell” – highlighting the Heritage Center's mission to collect family histories. In her talk, Ms. Smith emphasized the importance of gathering oral histories, especially from older folks with memories of times long ago.

One of the evening's highlights was a performance by a local singing group known as “Ragged Company” of “Hang Down Your Head, Dear Family” – a light-hearted rendering of real-life stories submitted by members of the Heritage Commission about their ancestors. Carolyn Ennis, a commission member, wrote the lyrics.

The dinner was also an occasion to show appreciation to some of the Heritage Center's volunteers. Thanked for their regular service in the center’s reading room were Phoebe Landfried, Pat Godwin, Michelle Watson, Debra Westbrook, Grover Miller, Garland Guffey, and Windy Thompson. Thanked for gathering information about numerous forgotten cemeteries throughout the county this past year were Lisa & Chuck Brewer and Martin Coolidge.

Once again, mystery novelist Margaret Maron offered as a door prize a chance to be named as a fictional character in her next book, and this year's winner was Frances Warren of Benson. Ms. Maron makes this annual “donation” in memory of her mother, Claudia Stephenson Brown, one of the Heritage Center's early volunteer genealogists.

Arts Council Receives Grant

The Johnston County Arts Council has received a $2,000 grant from South River Electric Membership Corporation.  Darlene Williford, Executive Director is pictured accepting the grant for the Arts Council. The Operation Round Up Grant will be used to help fund the Artist-in-the-Schools Program in Johnston County.

McLamb Completes Basic Training
Air Force Airman Dylan R. McLamb graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. McLamb is the son of Ray and Vonnie McLamb of Gardner Road, Four Oaks, and the grandson of Glenda Pearl McLamb Smith of Greenleaf Road, Angier. He is a 2011 graduate of South Johnston High School in Four Oaks.

Caroline Dunn Named 2012 Miss Capital City
Caroline Dunn, a senior Teaching Fellow at North Carolina State University majoring in Elementary Education, was crowned Miss Capital
City 2012 at the Clayton Center on January 7th. Ms. Dunn also received the talent award for her contemporary clogging performance. While
completing her year of service in the Raleigh area, Ms. Dunn will also compete to be crowned the 75th Anniversary Miss North Carolina on June 23 at Memorial Auditorium in downtown Raleigh.

Though Caroline will be representing the large city where she attends college, she takes pride in being raised a “small town girl”. This Johnston County native is the daughter of Paul and Cynthia Dunn of Benson. She is a 2008 graduate of South Johnston High School in Four Oaks and also a former Company Dancer at Alicia's School of Performing Arts in Benson.

In addition to representing the Raleigh area at events, festivals, and parades, Ms. Dunn hopes to travel across the state promoting her platform "Working It Out" in the Classroom. "Working It Out" in the Classroom encourages teachers to include physical activity and information on how to eat healthy in their daily instruction. This platform is dear to Ms. Dunn because she has spent the last two years improving her own health which has resulted in her losing over 70 pounds. Miss Dunn says she excited about the year she has ahead of her.