Wayne Week — March 23, 2025

N E W OL D NORT H M E DI A P R E SE N T S A W E E K LY N E WS M AG A Z I N E

M A RCH 23 , 2 02 5

N E WOL DNORT H .C OM

Wayne

WEEK

HEROES of the SKY Members of the 4th Fighter Wing's 335th Chiefs will be honored with decorations this week —

including the Distinguished Flying Cross — for their heroic defense of Israel in April 2024.

BY K E N F I N E / p.1 2

NEWS + VIEWS

Goldsboro police officer being investigated after claims of use of excessive force is cleared by city officials. p. 4

________________

Councilwoman Beverly Weeks sounds off. p. 7

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CONTENTS MARCH 23, 2025 Volume 2, Issue 29

NEWOLDNORTH .CO M

EDITORIAL EDITOR Ken Fine EDITOR Renee Carey DESIGN DIRECTOR Shan Stumpf PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Casey Mozingo

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Melissa Hamilton ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE McKayla Alves ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Lara Landers

PUBLISHER

New Old North Media LLC

CONTACTS EDITORS

kfine@newoldnorth.com rcarey@newoldnorth.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES hevans@newoldnorth.com llanders@newoldnorth.com malves@newoldnorth.com

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WAYNE WEEK (ISSN 2993-9666) is published weekly — except the week of Christmas, Easter, and July 4 — for $125 per year by New Old North Media, LLC, 219 N. John Street, Goldsboro, NC, 27530. Periodicals postage paid at at Goldsboro, NC. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to WAYNE WEEK, 219 N. John Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.

4 GPD officer cleared by city leaders An officer who was under investigation for alleged use of excessive force has been vindicated by an internal affairs probe — and members of the Goldsboro City Council.

4 SBI eyeing Wayne County Jail

A law enforcement officer told authorities that a person who works at the Wayne County Detention Center crossed a line during a scuffle with a detainee. Now, the State Bureau of Investigation is involved.

6 Downtown parking on hold again If comments made by Goldsboro's assistant city manager are any indication of what is to come, two-hour parking restrictions might never come back.

7 Weeks sounds off during meeting From emails that allegedly disappeared from her inbox to content being deleted from a website, Councilwoman Beverly Weeks said she has an issue with how she has been treated since she started asking for the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation's financial records.

12 Cover story

Members of the 335th Fighter Squadron will receive decorations this week for gallantry displayed during their defense of Israel in April 2024.

20 Spectator

The Southern Wayne High School baseball team hosted Hunt Tuesday evening in Dudley.

COVER DESIGN

BY SHAN STUMPF

newoldnorth.com

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NEWS +VIEWS City leaders: GPD officer did not use excessive force

Less than 24 hours after City Council members sat through a several-hour closed session to discuss the findings of an internal investigation into a Jan. 28 arrest that has been scrutinized by a handful of local residents — and three members of the council — a press release from City Hall vindicated the officer who had been placed on administrative duty.

BY KEN FINE

A

few days after Wayne Week reported that a Goldsboro police officer who had been assigned to administrative duty pending the results of an internal investigation into allegations of excessive force was back on the beat, city officials announced that he had, indeed, been vindicated.

But the press release — which was issued

by Public Information Officer LaToya Henry less than 24 hours after a marathon closed session during which former District Attorney Branny Vickory made himself available for questions from members of the City Council — noted that four officers “received disciplinary action” for “policy violations related to professional presence and communication” that were identified during the investigation.

The incident that triggered the inquiry unfolded late in the afternoon on Jan. 28 after officials from a housing office on Day Circle, The Grand at Day Point, called 911 and said they were concerned about a man who had been removed from the property by the GPD in the past and was back at the site threatening employees.

Wayne Week, via a fulfilled records request, obtained that 911 call.

“He has previously threatened employees,” the caller told the operator. “The last time that we asked for him to be banned, the cops actually, like, scared him off the property instead of formally banning him.”

That man, 27-year-old Talek Carter, would, during the course of his late January arrest, allegedly assault an officer and was found to be in possession of a concealed weapon.

He was charged with trespassing and assaulting an officer.

According to multiple sources with knowledge of the internal investigation, the policy infractions included the use of expletives by the officer who had allegedly been assaulted after the fact and what was described as an “unnecessary back and forth” between officers and the suspect.

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“The officer took a hit to a part of his body that no man likes to take a hit to. I’ll leave it there,” one of them said. “So, he cursed. The fact that he got any kind of discipline for that is ridiculous.”

A second source who has seen the body camera footage agreed.

“We all know what this is. There were some council members who were never going to be satisfied unless someone at the GPD got, at a minimum, a slap on the wrist, because they are pandering for votes,” they told Wayne Week. “So, sadly, this was the way of throwing those council members a bone, but based on the video I saw, it’s a stretch to go after any of them. I just hope it doesn’t end up damaging morale because we need all of them to know how much we appreciate their sacrifices.”

GPD Chief Mike West would not comment on those details.

But he did note that police work is not an easy job.

“Our officers deal with tough, fast-moving situations every day, making split-second decisions to keep people safe,” he said.

And he reemphasized that there was no evidence of the use of excessive force on Day Circle — and that while the investigation revealed a few “teachable moments,” he stands behind the work the men and women under his command perform in the community every day and his vow to maintain a transparent department.

“This investigation reaffirmed what I’ve always believed — they handled this situation appropriately, following their training and department policy,” West said. “We’re always looking for ways to improve, but it’s just as important to acknowledge when our officers do the job the right way. The Goldsboro Police Department will continue to be transparent, accountable, and committed to giving our officers the training and support they need to best serve this community.” n

SBI LAUNCHES PROBE INTO WAYNE COUNTY JAIL Excessive force claim came from a law enforcement officer who witnessed an incident they felt obligated to report.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is probing an incident that unfolded inside the Wayne County Detention Center after a “detainee” was allegedly assaulted by a person who works inside the jail.

And while the SBI would not name either party involved, Public Information Officer Chad Flowers did confirm a series of facts that were provided to Wayne Week by several law enforcement sources who asked to remain anonymous.

The following is what the SBI confirmed: On Jan. 26, Goldsboro police officers made an arrest and, as is protocal, transported the detainee to the Wayne County Detention Center.

But before they officially relinquished custody, a Wayne County Sheriff’s Office employee allegedly assaulted the individual — raising concern among the arresting officers.

The following day, Sheriff Larry Pierce contacted the SBI and asked them to assist with a case of “potential use of excessive force.”

Since that time, witnesses have been interviewed — and video footage has been reviewed — by state agents.

And while the bureau is not expected, according to Flowers, to conclude its inquiry for “a few weeks,” once investigators are done, they will pass along what they found to District Attorney Matthew Delbridge.

At that point, Flowers said, it would be up to Delbridge to, if necessary, convene a grand jury and potentially indict the member of the WCSO. Sources have lauded both the GPD

officers for “refusing to stand by and stay silent” after they witnessed what unfolded and Pierce for “self-reporting” the incident to state authorities.

And Pierce, who was asked for comment about the incident — including the current employment status of the person accused of using excessive force — provided the following account of what transpired: “On January 26, 2025, Goldsboro Police Department officers brought two suspects before the magistrate for charges. While in the custody of the Goldsboro Police Department, one individual became aggressive with the officers, as well as two detention officers.

A brief altercation ensued between one detention officer and the aggressive suspect. The suspect was not injured in the altercation, and the booking process continued. It was later discovered that the suspect was in possession of a controlled substance and attempting to conceal the controlled substance before the altercation.

When details of the altercation were presented to Sheriff Larry Pierce, he requested that the NC State Bureau of Investigation conduct a third-party, impartial investigation.

The detention officer was placed on administrative duties pending the outcome of the investigation.”

Pierce added that while he could not provide additional comment regarding an ongoing investigation, he appreciates the SBI for agreeing to facilitate that probe.

“I want to thank the NC SBI for their assistance into this matter,” he said.- Ken Fine

newoldnorth.com

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Downtown parking restrictions on hold indefinitely

The Goldsboro City Council said it would talk about the issue 60 days after its January retreat. That conversation happened Monday.

BY RENEE CAREY

I

f a Monday evening report delivered by Assistant City Manager Kelly Arnold is any indication of what will happen down the road, downtown’s two-hour parking restrictions — a measure that was paused by the Goldsboro City Council in December after months of backlash from business owners and residents — are likely gone for the foreseeable future.

And Arnold, who said he was addressing the council because staff was instructed to study “the data” for 60 days after the board’s January retreat, told the board that without those restrictions “things seem to be working pretty well.”

“We talked about it at the retreat. We spent some time on a survey. There were some options discussed but not necessarily coalesced,” he said. “We have met as a staff parking committee a couple of times since that retreat and have really come to the conclusion that we believe that it’s probably a good time to extend the pause and/or make it permanent.”

But Councilman Chris Boyette, who has been a vocal advocate for parking restrictions in the city’s core, said he hopes discussions about how to manage the issue in what he characterized as a growing downtown will, at some point, continue.

“Obviously, we haven’t reached the magic conclusion about what to do about parking.

That being said, I do think that we need to at least revisit it every so often to see if we want to talk about it,” he said. “Because I ultimately think that as downtown grows, we’re going to have to address parking.”

•

• •

City officials began looking into potential parking restrictions back in 2016 when a study meant to anticipate future parking demand as a result of the realization of the Downtown Master Plan was commissioned

by Goldsboro leaders.

But it was not until 2023, when a consultant traveled to the city to unwrap the data, that potential enforcement came to the fore.

He told the 50-plus people who attended a public meeting then that downtown had exceeded assumptions made about just how much demand there would be for parking on Center and surrounding streets — and presented several options he believed could help 6

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the city mitigate potential woes for those wanting to eat, drink, and shop there.

The overwhelming majority said they would favor regulations akin to what the city rolled out in 2024, but when the signs went up and warning tickets started appearing on windshields, it started a firestorm.

Handicapped residents claimed they had found parking tickets on their windshields —

a violation, they said, of North Carolina General Statute.

Business owners on Mulberry Street alleged that city employees — and members of the City Council — were utilizing on-street parking in front of their business after championing restrictions they said were meant to preserve “valuable” spots for paying customers.

Young women showed up to council meet-

ings to share stories about being accosted and propositioned by “aggressive” panhandlers — both in broad daylight and when they get off from work long after sunset — during what they characterized as unnecessarily long walks to their cars.

And accusations of “selective enforcement” flew — claims that the person handing out tickets was ignoring vehicles that belong to city employees, including City Council- and city-owned vehicles with Goldsboro’s logo affixed to them.

At seemingly every council meeting, more people sounded off.

A petition signed by nearly 100 people — a document containing the names of everyone from real estate agents, tattoo artists, and hair stylists to restaurateurs, landlords, and boutique managers — was even submitted to the council.

And when council members attempted to compromise, they took even more heat.

Still, the majority of the board voted to allow enforcement to continue until December — with several vowing they would change their minds if the residents’ concerns were not rectified.

But Mayor Charles Gaylor, at that fateful December meeting, argued that there was no solution that would please everybody.

“Guys. This is a mistake. This is a mistake.

This is a mistake,” he said then. “Guys, we’ve implemented a thing and to just walk away from it for an undetermined amount of time to resolve issues that we don’t know how to clearly articulate other than, ‘Some folks don’t like it,’ this isn’t going to resolve this issue other than to make it so that different people are unhappy.”

Moments later, however, every other elected member of the City Council voted to “pause” the measure until at least the end of March — a move that now appears potentially permanent.

“We don’t see any benefit to continue the two-hour parking (restrictions),” Arnold said Monday. “Complaints have gone down. Things seem to be working pretty well.”

But Boyette did ask that staff continue to look into the parking issue, particularly creating designated spaces for takeout and rideshare drivers.

His fellow council members agreed to direct staff to do so. n

Weeks expresses concerns, levies allegations during DGDC exchange Councilwoman Beverly Weeks said she supports downtown Goldsboro, but wants questions about finances, transparency answered.

BY KEN FINE AND RENEE CAREY

W

hen members of the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation converged on City Hall Monday evening, they had a plan — to unwrap a staggering list of accomplishments earned by the public-private partnership that exists between the non-profit and the city department it supports.

They talked about the thousands of volunteer hours their members provide to “add capacity” to the city’s mission of realizing a thriving downtown — and the value of those hours.

They talked about the many events that draw tens of thousands of people to the city’s core every year — and the economic impact associated with them.

They talked about the hundreds of rehabilitated buildings and the thousands of jobs that have been created in the four decades the partnership has existed.

And they talked about the Paramount Theatre, streetscape, Union Station and other projects they, together, have supported.

Councilman Chris Boyette lauded their efforts.

“I have said this before, and I’ll say it again — how proud I am of the DDD and the DGDC and your collaborative effort. Over the years, I’ve been down here and watched firsthand,” he said. “Our downtown would absolutely, positively not be what it is today without each and every one of you guys and the work that you contribute — both departments. So, I just want to say thank you … because you have certainly made my downtown better.”

But while Councilwoman Beverly Weeks agreed that their impact report was “excellent” and that it was “no secret that you guys are doing an amazing job in our city,” she also had “questions.”

And she claimed, publicly, that since she started asking those questions, strange things have been happening.

Weeks said she has had emails recalled by city staff.

“I want to share this publicly with this council. I don’t know if you’re aware, but if you send emails, your emails can be taken back without you knowing about it — emails that are communicated in conversations in our emails can be taken back without your permission,” she said. “I just recently found that out last week.

I was communicating in some emails with our with you asking for these finances and you city manager and my emails were taken back. could not help me. I hope you’re not going to I had to come to the IT Department and find sit there and publicly deny that.” out where my emails were, and I found out that • • • they were recalled without my permission.”

She said she had received “threats.”

“I have been threatened,” Weeks said. “I Weeks’ contention is that, as she said during the council meeting, while she supports the have been warned not to speak.”

All because, she said, she asked to see the DGDC — and is blown away by the downtown revitalization effort that has DGDC’s financials — a request resulted in a thriving core — she claims was denied, initialshe believes taxpayers deserve ly, by both DGDC Executive to know everything there is to Director Erin Fonseca and the know about the partnership benon-profit’s board chairman, tween a city department and its Grayson Hussey. non-profit arm.

“I called and asked to see a And she also feels strongly copy of your finances and I was that as budget season approachdenied. Matt, we have had argues, she has a “responsibility” to ment after argument after arguensure every single dollar that is ment and when you called Erin, allocated by City Hall is necesyou advised her it was in her best sary and accounted for. interest that she give us that fi“My argument has never nancial information,” she said to Beverly Weeks been if the DGDC is doing great Interim City Manager Matthew things. They are making a huge Livingston. “But she couldn’t because then, there was a conflict of interest impact in our downtown district. That is very because she has a board chair over here who evident,” Weeks told Wayne Week Tuesday. “My said, ‘No. We’re not going to release this infor- argument is strictly a financial one. Our taxmation.’ (Erin) is your employee and I’m asking payers deserve financial transparency in every to see a copy of these finances and I’m not even area. There is no true financial dollar amount that has ever been associated with the operaallowed to see the finances.” tions of this department and non-profit partUltimately, though, she received them. nership. We do not even know a cost in dollars “You got the finances right?” Livingston said.

“Yes. After I sent an email and said, ‘If for shared services and staffing.”

And she said she was shocked that when she these finances aren’t released, I’ll just call the Secretary of State,’” Weeks replied. “It called Finance Director Catherine Gwynn, no was not until I asked and begged, kicked and in-kind donations were recorded, either.

“In-kind contributions hold significant valscreamed, that I was given a copy of the finances. So, if we’re a partnership, why wasn’t ue and must be acknowledged as a component of the city’s financial investment, thereby inthat information released?” viting scrutiny and accountability regarding Hussey responded.

“That information was released to you. the non-profit’s financial commitments and If you’ll also reference your emails, when I obligations,” Weeks said. “The DGDC has inreached out to you … I said I would be more vestments and income from private donors and than happy to provide the finances to you,” he even event income. What can be done to make said. “I would like to meet with you and to pro- the non-profit arm more sustainable so that vide them to you and also answer questions at some of our taxpayers’ dollars can be invested in other districts other than just downtown?” the same time.”

And when, long before Monday’s meeting, Weeks wasn’t finished.

“That was at the end. I would be glad to re- she started asking questions about what the lease the emails,” she said. “Matt, multiple con- city was actually funding, she said more strange versations with you. Multiple conversations things started happening.

“We contribute roughly about a $300,000 salary package. And it was on their website that we provided a full-time staff for this non-profit,” Weeks said. “It was on the website until I contacted you (Livingston) and then it was immediately taken down. We’ve had conversations about this.”

But Hussey seemed to reject every argument the councilwoman made.

In his view, it seems unbelievable that the Downtown Development Department’s salaries — which make up less than 1 percent of the city’s annual budget — and other issues raised by the councilwoman were being scrutinized when the return the city has gotten on that investment is taken into account.

“Help me understand a little bit more … because the way I view it, as far as what I do and what the DGDC does, is we provide capacity to the city,” he said during the meeting. “I’m asking this rhetorically. Does any other department bring 6,000 volunteers to provide a quality of life to their citizens?”

And he argued that from an accountability and transparency perspective, the DGDC more than clears the standard — noting that city leaders, elected officials, and representatives from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base sit on the non-profit’s board.

“We don’t operate in a vacuum,” Hussey said. “We have the city manager on our board … and every time we have a board meeting, financials are provided at that point in time.”

Fonseca put it a different way.

“I think our stats show that we are delivering with what we have,” she said. “We have been operating very well on a staff of three and I think our stats show that we are delivering a return on investment of city dollars.”

Weeks raised other concerns — about the many properties the DGDC owns, its investment portfolio and more.

But in the end, Fonseca said the proof of the partnership’s value was in the numbers.

“In the 41 years of our partnership — this is why this partnership is so vital that it remains just so — we have benefitted with over 470 new businesses, 2,493 new jobs, 224 new residential units, 548 building rehabilitations,” she said. “These are private dollars. These are done by private entities and individuals that represent over $100 million in private investment and impact.” n newoldnorth.com

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ILLUSTRATION BY SHAN STUMPF

{ our TAKE }

T

ONLY THEY REALLY KNOW

here is an honor that we, as the adopted home of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, get to experience firsthand.

We know the stories of what it costs to protect a nation.

We have seen the faces of that sacrifice — the families who spend months (and sometimes years) apart.

We think about the names of the ones who never made it home and their families — those husbands, wives, and children — often, and it is why when an F-15E flies overhead, many of us cannot help but shed a tear.

We know what that roar signifies and why those jets are practicing their maneuvers in the clouds.

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War is not a game in our community. It is serious business.

We understand just how much we have to lose.

So, we put our hands on our hearts, raise our hands in salute, or simply feel gratitude that so many risk so much for us, for their country, for freedom.

It is the same feeling we have when we hear our national anthem, or watch a flag unfurl.

We have experienced patriotism in a way that so many have not had the privilege of knowing.

We put faces to the fight — and understand the true depths of the risk, the sacrifice, and the loss.

But even though we have been a part of

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base’s mission for decades — and supported the families who have passed through its gates and made them neighbors and friends — we do not really understand the contributions those men and women have made during their service to their country.

We don’t really know what it feels like to fly a mission — and to have the responsibility of not only executing an order, but also making sure those under your command and on your crew make it home safely.

We can’t really fathom what it is like to be thousands of miles away from your loved ones — often missing the moments that we take for granted, the rites of passage that often only happen once like a baby’s first step or the day

a once-little girl gets engaged.

We can empathize, yes.

But we can never really understand.

There is a history of heroes at the base — and some of that history has ended in a loss of life.

Those who have served never forget their comrades — those who came home and those who didn’t.

Our veterans’ community remembers, too.

And we honor them because we do as well.

So, although we can — and will — tell you the stories about the men and women who will be honored next week at SJAFB, and share the narrative that the Air Force will share with us, we cannot even begin to tell you how much their heroism and courage mattered.

We cannot explain what it took to steel

themselves to answer the call, or how hard it must have been to make sure that the mission was carried out effectively so all of our service members made it back home.

We cannot fully comprehend what it must have been like to have to think with ordinance exploding around you, and to manage a flight and a missile run while under attack.

We can tell you, however, that even former President Joe Biden said it would not have been accomplished without them.

Biden called them “the best” — and thanked them for answering the nation’s call.

And whether or not you support the former president’s politics, you can certainly agree with his characterization of the actions of the air crews who flew that mission over Israel, to protect innocents, in April 2024.

The narrative that will accompany the awards they will receive will likely recount a harrowing mission.

We know that because we have already heard some of the tales.

An aircraft that experienced emergencies during flight caused by falling debris dislodged by enemy combatants.

An air crew that, having exhausted their air-to-air missiles, valiantly used a gatling gun to continue the fight under the cloak of “complete darkness.”

And when the night was over, the efforts of not just flight crews from the 4th Fighter Wing, but many others, managed to stop 80 UAVs launched from Iran and Houthicontrolled Yemen, no doubt saving countless innocent lives.

Many honors were pinned on uniforms last November at Royal Air Force Lakenheath.

That is how we know what our F-15E crews were up against.

You will recognize the names of the decorations those airmen received — Distinguished Flying Cross, Silver Star, and Bronze Star.

And we know just how much those honors mean and the courage they signify — both to those who have served and those who admire their service.

Now, we will have the chance to honor our own.

Members of the 335th Fighter Squadron will stand at attention while they receive their medals this week.

They will accept them with the humility and the gratitude that often is the hallmark of a hero.

They did their duty, they will say, in the same way others have over the years.

What they will not do is forget those from the past whose missions did not end with a triumphant return home.

Because they know that they stand on the shoulders of the thousands of heroes who have come before them, who wore their

uniforms proudly while answering their nation’s call.

They know about the men who lost their lives on the shores of Normandy — or those who took to the air, land, and sea during the Global War on Terror, and never made it home.

Because, you see, to them, that medal pinned on their chest is not something to brag about.

It is not a flashy item to pull out at a party.

It is an admission ticket to a room of those who really understand what taking an oath to protect a country really entails — and a solemn appreciation for just how many heroes have paved the way for those who serve today.

It is a feeling we can certainly understand.

And it is why we will be not just be proud of those who have served in such a distinguished manner, but grateful, too.

We know what the fighter squadrons and the maintainers as well as the others who support Seymour Johnson’s mission mean to this country — and why we are so proud to have them as a part of this community.

We admire that they are the ones who stand guard, who patrol the night skies, and who defend not only their own country, but our allies as well, no matter the risk and no matter how difficult.

It is why keeping this base in this town matters so much.

It is not just about economic impact, jobs, and money, although all of that matters, too.

It is about a relationship and a respect.

When we thank our heroes, we mean it.

When we buy them a meal or honor them with a parade or a service, it is because we know that a simple act can never repay the debt this nation owes to those who answer the call.

When we watch a demonstration at an air show, we understand what it stands for.

And when we wipe away a tear when we see a Strike Eagle pass overhead, it is a lesson learned from years of being generations of airmen’s “adopted hometown.”

We know better than others what it takes to keep a nation free — and we will never, ever take it for granted.

That’s what you do when you are a military town.

So, we are proud of all of you who serve at SJAFB — not just those who will be honored in the coming days inside that hangar.

We will never, ever forget.

And we won’t let anyone else forget either.

It is how we serve.

It’s how our parents and grandparents raised us — to forever thank our lucky stars that there are men, women, and families who pay a price to keep us free. n

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SOUND OFF

DOWNTOWN SCRUTINY DOES NOT HELP ANYONE

by JULIE METZ

R

egarding introductions, I am Julie Metz, a retired local government employee who spent nearly 25 years serving the City of Goldsboro.

I started in the planning department, and after five years, transitioned to the position of the city’s Downtown Development Director and Downtown Goldsboro Development Corporation Executive Director simultaneously for the remaining 20 years.

I am writing because watching the March 17th Council meeting hurt my heart.

I can only imagine how heartbreaking it was for the many community leaders and volunteers who have given their time, heart, and resources to help Goldsboro with its dream to develop a better downtown over the last 32 years since this public-private partnership was formed.

I write to share my perspective and the wisdom I retained during that tenure in a role that exposed me intimately to the relationships discussed at the meeting.

First, yes, transparency is important in most matters. Saving taxpayers money, where it makes sense, is always the goal, — especially in local government.

However, throwing them out as a basis for shallow accusations based on a lack of understanding, perspective, information, or context — or to hide personal motivations — is not.

It is irresponsible, to a minimum.

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The risk is that it is hurtful and can permeate irreconcilable damage, resulting in a loss for all.

The spoken and unspoken tone I witnessed was accusatory and, at times, slanderous.

It certainly did not befit a long-lasting, positive working relationship, and its results have been widely celebrated, not just downtown but also across the greater Goldsboro community and the state.

Sure, most non-profits do not have a city partnership like this outside those connected to downtown revitalization or Main Street. But most cities and towns also don’t benefit from a very active and engaged downtown non-profit arm — the primary reason we are far ahead of many rural communities.

That makes the magic sauce.

It is not “the one” large investment project. Those come and go.

It is the unique blend of assets that the two partners bring to the table and, if facilitated, managed, and supported, creates an irreplaceable energy that can accomplish most obstacles or goals.

Another reason the DGDC is so valuable here, is that it has solely one focus — downtown.

The organization’s purpose was designed by the city to work with the city for its betterment.

The city, on the other hand, has multiple interests and goals that vary and change over time, depending on the council’s

makeup, which can shift every four years.

Having a partner with consistency of purpose has been crucial for downtown.

Downtowns are a significant part of the city. Their success or failure is a reflection of the city and affects how people react to its community. How they live in it, invest in it, and decide to visit it.

Thus, it makes sense for the city to play a vital role in supporting a non-profit willing to exist solely for its cause and routinely steps up to help by serving as a tool to meet its redevelopment goals and maintain it as the heart of the city.

The truth is that the city cannot accomplish this on its own.

Just take one recent, relatively small in comparison project, Union Station, for example.

No city that has a great downtown does it through local government alone.

I plan to prepare a letter to the DGDC Board and the City Council that more directly provides context, facts, and thoughts to the questions and comments raised in the Monday evening meeting.

But here, I wish to stay focused on what matters most — the relationship and why it matters to everyone in Goldsboro, whether you know it or not.

Can you imagine a downtown now without the Center Street streetscape work?

For those of you who were wed in the Firehouse or celebrate special occasions there, do you remember when it was

dilapidated and only utilized by vagrants was ordered to be torn down by our Inspections Department due to its conditions?

For those of you who love to go downtown to one of your favorite brew spots and pick the one on John Street to catch up with friends and shake off the demanding workday, do you remember when that entire block of buildings was only used for storage and, too, was facing demolition by our council?

How about those of you who live in or visit a friend who lives in our historic “skyscraper” building at the corner of James and Walnut Street? Did you know it sat vacant for decades, and the city once turned down a proposition to buy it for $12,500 in the mid1990s because of its condition and risk?

I am sure many of you have frequented Cry Freedom Missions Shoppe, one of our most valuable retail stores in generating traffic and influencing the visual character of our main downtown thoroughfare — Center Street. That business began in a building where the second floor had not been utilized in over 50 years and the first floor looked nothing like it does today.

How about their second location, where the building had been vacant for decades?

Perhaps you enjoy participating in all of the fun cultural events among our community’s most talented people at the Arts Council. Do you remember when they were located on Ash and Spence Streets and how they were referenced as the “white country club,” at

least partly due to its inaccessibility due to the building’s design and placement?

I know many of you enjoy getting together with friends and meeting new ones at the Center Street Jam events, a summer tradition that has lasted 25 years. I know a handful of people who met their “one” there and are happily married and have started families because of that opportunity to meet one another.

How many of you have been part of a business, project, or an effort that you were acknowledged for because of your excellence, and that little bit of acknowledgment mattered to you and helped give you that extra boost to carry on?

How many young and young-hearted people enjoy a show or get to exercise their talents at the Paramount Theatre? Did you know it burned to the ground in 2005 and was in serious jeopardy of never being rebuilt?

Do you, like me, look forward to kicking off the holiday season in magical form at Downtown Lights Up each year with all the lights and festivities? Did you know that my first one had only eight (yes, eight!) people in attendance, most of whom were DGDC board members?

Do you enjoy getting a facial, like me, at Skin Therapy Day Spa? Well, it was once a building that was falling apart due to absentee property owners until a group of motivated people, backed by an understanding of why our historic buildings are so important, got involved.

Or, which one of you is among the 32,000 active patients of Goldsboro Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics? It must be some of you because 32,000 is a lot of young people! Well, do you remember that until 2016, that 10,000-plus square foot building sat vacant for over a decade, providing no good to anyone other than the person using it for storage?

How many of you look forward to the day that Union Station looks like it once did and welcomes new life into it, possibly becoming an anchor to the development of passenger rail service connecting Raleigh and Wilmington and beyond?

I could go on, but I will stop here.

What was the straw that stirred the drink in these situations?

Yep, it was the DGDC. Sure, the city may have helped in some of these cases through my involvement and sometimes with funding, such as streetscape.

However, most of it was born on the backs of the volunteers that make up the DGDC. They did it either through their advocacy, demonstrated commitment to the community and the feelings and response that gains, or through grants only available to non-profits or Main Street Communities.

At times, such as in the case of the Paramount, Center Street Jam, Firehouse, the spa building, and many others, they also financially contributed to making those

projects happen or put themselves at risk by intervening and taking ownership of the buildings through donations that allowed the buildings a new opportunity.

Not to mention that all those beloved events, efforts, and projects created a 16-percent increase in property tax values for the city during the last reevaluation.

Why is that important to people who do not even frequent downtown and those managing City Hall’s budget?

Because those increased revenues are not earmarked for downtown, but are eligible to be spent on needs and expenses throughout Goldsboro.

Plus, it might just help reduce future pressures to increase taxes elsewhere to meet the service needs you want given the ever-growing cost to pay for them.

The good news?

This was just the start of downtown’s evolution.

There is so much more potential for growth and reinvestment — so many more opportunities for downtown to continue to serve and build upon its new legacy as a hub for our community.

So again, there is more I want to say about Monday night’s conversation, but for you, the general community, and possibly interested persons, I want to ask: Can you imagine your downtown or Goldsboro without these places or experiences?

What makes downtown special is the

work, passion, and commitment that is demonstrated daily by the people behind the board. The partnership between the DGDC and the city makes these projects and actions happen.

But those partnerships require relationships, and we need to get back to that through respect, civility, and understanding without narratives, sound bites, and personally led myopic views that do not focus on the big picture or consider a longtime, proven structure that works for both parties.

The reality is that taking $300,000 out of the city budget annually may sound good on the surface, but what will that get you? No one knows.

But you do know what it has given you for the past 32 years, and that something is great — something I was proud to be part of and something so many people who worked alongside me were proud of, too.

I also know that $300,000 out of a $50 million budget is not even a drop in the bucket.

Perhaps we should put all departments under the same scrutiny the Downtown Development Department has received.

Because making the DGDC the single point of scrutiny makes it look personal.

I’ll leave you with this: Let’s not let one or two people break what has proven to work because they either do not understand or have a short-sighted, singularly focused goal.

And let us, instead, use this as an opportunity to show why we shine. n newoldnorth.com

. Wayne WEEK . 11

HEROES of the

SKY Members of the 4th Fighter Wing's 335th Chiefs will be honored with decorations this week — including the Distinguished Flying Cross — for their heroic defense of Israel in April 2024.

BY K E N F I N E

12

. Wayne WEEK . newoldnorth.com

B

ack in November, a group of airmen gathered inside a hangar several thousand miles away from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base to honor a group of men and women who, under the cloak of darkness, put their lives on the line in defense of Israel in April 2024.

There was an F-15E aircrew that faced “severe aircraft emergencies” while “under falling debris” created by “hostile fire from the enemy” — a team that confronted low-altitude, one-way attack UAVs in “the complete darkness of night” with a Strike Eagle gatling gun after they had expended all their air-to-air missiles.

There was a master sergeant who was among an operations crew that ensured “every combat-capable aircraft was in the fight” and the airfield “remained viable for operations.”

But their actions reflect only a fraction of an effort that saw more than 80 UAVs that were launched at Israel from Iran and Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen destroyed.

And the decorations they received that November day at Royal Air Force Lakenheath — including Silver Stars, Distinguished Flying Crosses, and Bronze Stars — are not the only ones that were earned during the aerial campaign.

Friday, more stories will be told, and more medals will be pinned to Air Force blues, as members of the 4th Fighter Wing’s 335th Fighter Squadron who participated in the defense of one of their nation’s most significant allies are honored.

According to SJAFB officials, among the decorations to be presented is the DFC, the Air Force’s fourth highest honor.

“These awards highlight the distinctive accomplishments of these Airmen as they ensured the destruction of multiple Iranian attack drones, protected innocent civilians and Coalition forces, and likely prevented escalation to regional war,” base officials said in a news release.

I

t started as the middle of the night on April 13 was turning over to the following morning — when the sound of air raid alerts and explosions jolted many Israelis from their beds.

Moments later, they were hit both with messaging urging them to seek immediate shelter and the reality that for the first time in history, Iran had launched an attack on their country.

What they did not know was that American aircrews — including members of the 335th Chiefs — were, in those very moments,

Friday, more stories will be told, and more medals will be pinned to Air Force blues. helping to ensure what then-President Joe Biden characterized as an “unprecedented aerial attack” would ultimately fail.

And what the Chiefs had no way of predicting was that Biden would praise their squadron — and every Strike Eagle aviator involved in the mission — and post a video of him doing so to social media.

“Hey, you guys are the best in the whole damn world, man. The whole world,” Biden said. “That’s not hyperbole. Both of these squadrons, you’re incredible.”

He told them they had made “an enormous difference” for one of the U.S.’s key allies — that they had potentially saved “a lot of lives.”

He championed their “enormous skills” and said he was in awe of their “remarkable” execution of the mission.

And he asked them to “keep it going,” as tensions in the Middle East remained.

“Let me tell you, you make me proud, and I’m not just saying that,” Biden said. “I swear to God. You’re incredible.”

Millions of people would end up watching that video.

Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) and Congressman Don Davis were among them.

And they knew something else the Chiefs did not — that their defense of Israel might have given leaders in Washington an opportunity to ramp up their advocacy for the Goldsboro installation they had deployed from, a base the men believed was “unfairly” under attack via legislation that would change SJAFB’s mission and deplete its fleet.

Budd and Davis used the successful mission to publicly challenge those who saw to it that F-15Es, including some stationed at SJAFB, would be divested as spelled out in the 2024 National Defense AuthorizaContinued on page 14

Seymour Johnson Air Force Base F-15Es. newoldnorth.com

. Wayne WEEK . 13

Continued from page 13

tion Act — a plan signed into law by Biden that would also see one of the 4th Fighter Wing’s fighter squadrons, the 333rd Lancers, deactivated, and the wing transition into one with a training-only mission.

More locally, State Rep. John Bell did the same — vowing to bring thenGov. Roy Cooper and other state leaders into the fight.

“Our fighter squadron, the 335th from Seymour Johnson, is the one that put on an epic display of defending freedom, not just for Americans, but also shooting down missiles that were attacking our closest ally, Israel. There is no more important fighter squadron in this country that can put on that kind of display of force than the 335th,” he said. “And it’s sad that folks in the Air Force want to (change the mission) of its wing and move the 335th into a training status. When you have the premier aircraft and the premier personnel that showed exactly what American airpower is all about, you celebrate it.”

It turns out Congress was listening.

Over the next several months, Budd and Davis were able to convince their respective colleagues in the House and Senate to prohibit divestment of American F-15Es through the end of 2027 — a stunning turn of events that also saw the 333rd spared.

And as for the 4th Fighter Wing transitioning into a training-only mission?

Air Combat Command officials told Wayne Week in January that instead, the 335th and the 4th would “continue executing their current missions.”

I

t is unclear how many airmen will be honored March 28 inside the 4th Component Maintenance Squadron hangar — or what decorations will be awarded other than the DFC. But one thing is certain.

By the end of the week, more names will be added to the history book of a fighter wing that traces its lineage back to World War II — airmen who, after the ceremony, will forever stand alongside aces, former POWs, EOD specialists, Security Forces K-9 handlers, and others who risked their lives to fulfill the promise they made when they raised their hand and swore to defend the cause they have been fighting for since their careers in the military began.

Complete coverage of the ceremony will be provided in the April 6 edition of Wayne Week. n 14

. Wayne WEEK . newoldnorth.com

IN THE SPIRIT OF FREEDOM

The Distinguished Flying Cross was established July 2, 1926, by an act of Congress and signed into law by President Calvin Coolidge on January 28, 1927.

U.S. Army Corps Reservist Capt. Charles A. Lindbergh was the first to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross on June 11, 1927, for his May 1927 solo flight across the Atlantic in the Spirit of St. Louis.

CRITERIA

This medal is awarded to any officer or enlisted person of the United States Armed Forces for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. Both heroism and achievement must be entirely distinctive, involving operations that are not routine. This award is not awarded for sustained operational activities and flights.

MEDAL DESCRIPTION

The Distinguished Flying Cross was designed by Elizabeth Will and Arthur E. DuBois. It is a bronze cross pattee, with rays between the arms of the cross. On the obverse is a propeller of four blades, with one blade in each arm of the cross and in the re-entrant angles of the cross are rays which form a square.

The cross is suspended by a rectangular-shaped bar and centered on this is a plain shield. The reverse is blank and suitable for engraving the recipient’s name and rank.

RIBBON DESCRIPTION

The ribbon has a narrow red center stripe, flanked on either side by a thin white stripe, a wide stripe of dark blue, a narrow white stripe and narrow dark blue at the edge of the ribbon.

AUTHORIZED DEVICES

Subsequent awards of the Distinguished Flying Cross are indicated by oak leaf clusters for Army and Air Force personnel and by additional award stars for members of the Naval services.

Members are also authorized wear of Combat “C” and Valor “V” Devices (as applicable)

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR COMBAT “C” DEVICE

The “C” device was established to distinguish an award earned for exceptionally meritorious service or achievement performed under combat conditions on or after Jan. 7, 2016.

The device is only authorized if the service or achievement was performed while the service member was personally exposed to hostile action or under significant risk of hostile action: • While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States.

• While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR VALOR “V” DEVICE

The “V” device is worn on decorations to denote valor, an act or acts of heroism by an individual above what is normally expected while engaged in direct combat with an enemy of the United States, or an opposing foreign or armed force, with exposure to enemy hostilities and personal risk.

Effective Jan. 7, 2016, the “V” device is authorized on the Distinguished Flying Cross. As a reminder, the use of the “V” device on the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and the Air Force Organizational Excellence Award is only authorized for the period of Jan. 11, 1996, to Jan. 1, 2014.

2025 PROPERTY REVALUATION Wayne County is conducting a property revaluation to ensure tax assessments reflect current market values, as required by North Carolina law.

Revaluation does NOT determine your tax bill. The Board of Commissioners will set the tax rate later.

Property values are assessed fairly based on real market conditions.

You have the right to appeal if you believe your assessed value is incorrect.

Revaluation notices will be mailed in late February - early March.

LEARN MORE AT WAYNEGOV.COM/REVALUATION newoldnorth.com

. Wayne WEEK . 15

NO T ICE S NOTICE TO PICK UP FILES AND OF THEIR DESTRUCTION NORTH CAROLINA WAYNE COUNTY The undersigned having been appointed trustee for the Law Office of Janice S. Head, PA or Janice Head Kornegay, Attorney at Law in Wayne County file number 25 R 19, because Janice S. Head/Janice Head Kornegay died on January 3, 2025. This is to notify all people or businesses that may have a file in the custody of Janice S. Head/ Janice Head Kornegay that you will have from March 3, 2025 until May 5, 2025 to pick your file up. You may call 919-736-3076 or 919-635-9007 or email shelby@bentonfamilylaw. com to arrange a time to pick up your file. You will need a photo ID to pick up your file and the file can only be given to the client in whose name the file is noted. If you do not pick the file up within the time set out above the remaining files will be destroyed in accord with the rules of the North Carolina State Bar. This the 18th day of February 2025.

Shelby Duffy Benton, Trustee Law Office of Janice S. Head, PA Janice Head Kornegay, Attorney at Law Goldsboro, North Carolina Published March 2, 2025, March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, and March 23, 2025

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Raymond Murphy Davis deceased, late of Wayne County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 3rd day of March, 2025.

Sherri Davis Creech Administrator for the Estate of Raymond Murphy Davis, 2067 Warrentown Road, Snow Hill, North Carolina, 28580 Published March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF JACQUELINE RHEW

All persons, firms, and corporations having claims against Jacqueline Rhew, deceased, of Wayne County, are notified to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be plead16

ed in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 3rd day of March, 2025.

Capen Rhew, Executor of the Estate of Jacqueline Rhew 4741 Delta Lake Drive Raleigh, NC 27612 Published March 9, 2025 and March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF JIMMY LEWIS ADAMS

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Jimmy Lewis Adams, Deceased, of Wayne County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before June 9, 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons indebted to the decedent or estate shall please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 9th day of March, 2025.

Jimmy Lewis Adams, Jr., and English Adams Albertson, Co-Executorsc/o Henry C. Smith, Attorney Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 (919) 734-1841 Published March 9, 2025, and March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF GILBERT WRIGHT BROWN

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Gilbert Wright Brown, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 9, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 3rd day of March, 2025.

Samuel Craig Brown, Executor of the Estate of Gilbert Wright Brown c/o L.E. (Trey) Taylor III, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 9, 2025, and March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

. Wayne WEEK . newoldnorth.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF NANCY JEAN KUHN

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Nancy Jean Kuhn, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 9, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 3rd day of March, 2025.

Robert Warren Kuhn, Administrator of the Estate of Nancy Jean Kuhn c/o Caroline Taylor Phillips, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 9, 2025, and March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Evelyn Dolores Hood, deceased, late of Wayne County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 4th day of March, 2025.

Doug Hood, Administrator for the Estate of Evelyn Dolores Hood, 473 Falling Creek Church Road, Goldsboro, North Carolina, 27534 Published March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF DEBORAH SUE YELVERTON

All persons, firms, and corporations having claims against Deborah Sue Yelverton, deceased, of Wayne County, are notified to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 9th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This is the 9th day of March, 2025.

Cara Yelverton Davis, Administrator of the Estate of Deborah Sue Yelverton c/o Mark J. Hale, Jr. Baddour, Parker, Hine & Hale, P.C.

Attorneys for Estate P.O. Box 916 Goldsboro, NC 27533-0916 (919) 735-7275 Published March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, and March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF SHIRLEY DAVIS GARDNER

All persons, firms, and corporations having claims against Shirley Davis Gardner, deceased, of Wayne County, are notified to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 9th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This is the 9th day of March, 2025.

Timothy Milton Kearney, Executor of the Estate of Shirley Davis Gardner c/o Mark J. Hale, Jr. Baddour, Parker, Hine & Hale, P.C. Attorneys for Estate P.O. Box 916 Goldsboro, NC 27533-0916 (919) 735-7275 Published March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, and March 30, 2025

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Kelly Ann Smith, deceased, late of Wayne County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 7th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 5th day of March, 2025.

Grover Allen Smith, Administrator for the Estate of Kelly Ann Smith, 103 Quailcroft Drive, Goldsboro, North Carolina, 27534 Published March 9, 2025, March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF HELEN CARLTON

All persons, firms, and corporations having claims against Helen Carlton, deceased, of Wayne County, are notified to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 14th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 6th day of March, 2025.

Marsha King Executor of the

Estate of Helen Carlton 507 Durham Lake Road Dudley, NC 28333 Published March 16, 2025, March. 23, 2025, March 30, 2025 and April 6, 2025

GENERAL NOTICE OF TAX FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAYNE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO: 23 CVD 744 WAYNE COUNTY and the TOWN OF MOUNT OLIVE, Plantiffs vs.

JIMMY STEVENS, JOYCE STEVENS, Defendants & THERENCENE DOUCEUR, Defendant Lienholder Under and by virtue of an Order of the Clerk of Superior Court of Wayne County, North Carolina, made and entered in the action entitled “WAYNE COUNTY and the TOWN OF MOUNT OLIVE vs. JIMMY STEVENS, ET AL., the undersigned Commissioner will on the 26th day of March, 2025, offer for sale and sell for cash, to the last and highest bidder at public auction, at the courthouse door in Wayne County, North Carolina, in Goldsboro at 10:00 a.m. the following described real property, lying and being in State and County aforesaid and more particularly described as follows: 605 S. Breazeale Avenue, Mt. Olive (PIN: 2572654339) BEING all of Lot No 2 of the B.E. Wilson Subdivision as shown on plat recorded in Plat Cabinet D, Slide 14 of the Wayne County Registry.

The sale will be made subject to all outstanding city and county taxes and all local improvements assessments against the above-described property not included in the judgment in the above-entitled cause. A deposit of 5 percent (5%) of the successful bid will be required or $750.00, whichever is greater, in the form of cash, certified check or money order. This the 25th day of February, 2025.

Andrew J. Neal Attorney for Plaintiff P.O. Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1713 Published March 16, 2025, and March 23, 2025

GENERAL NOTICE OF TAX FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAYNE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO: 22 CVD 212 WAYNE COUNTY, Plantiff vs.

THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF OSCAR LEE ARTIS and all assignees, heirs at law and devisees, together with all of their creditors and lienholders, regardless of how or through whom they claim, and any and all persons claiming any interest in, by, under or through the Estate of Oscar Lee Artis; JERMAINE BANKS and SPOUSE, if any; KAREEN ARTIS; JAMAAL ARTIS and SPOUSE, if any, Defendants Under and by virtue of an Order of the Clerk of Superior Court of Wayne County, North Carolina, made and entered in the action entitled “WAYNE COUNTY vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF OSCAR LEE ARTIS, ET AL., the undersigned Commissioner will on the 26th day of March, 2025, offer for sale and sell for cash, to the last and highest bidder at public auction, at the courthouse door in Wayne County, North Carolina, in Goldsboro at 10:00 a.m. the following described real property, lying and being in State and County aforesaid and more particularly described as follows: Tract One – PIN: 3559363488 / 190 Jesse Jackson Street, LaGrange BEGINNING at an iron stake in the southern margin of North Street, said beginning point being the northeast corner of Lot 24 of Jackson’s Division North, and runs thence from said beginning point N. 84° 51’ E. 100 feet to a point; runs thence S. 05° 09’ E. 234.16 feet to a point; runs thence S. 83° 31’ W. 100.03 feet to a point; runs thence N. 05° 09’ W. 236.49 feet to the point of beginning and being all of Lot Number 23 of Jackson’s Division North according to map or plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 19 at Page 11 of the Wayne County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a better and more perfect description.

Tract One – PIN: 3559364580 / 192 Jesse Jackson Street, LaGrange BEGINNING at an iron stake in the southern margin of North Street, said beginning point being the northeast corner of Lot 23 of Jackson’s Division North, and runs thence from said beginning point N. 84° 51’ E. 100 feet to a point; runs thence S. 05° 09’ E. 231.84 feet to a point; runs thence S. 83° 31’ W. 100.03 feet to a point; runs thence N. 05° 09’ W. 234.16 feet to the point of beginning and being all of Lot Number 22 of Jackson’s Division North according to a map or plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 19 at Page 11 of the Wayne County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a better and more perfect description.

The sale will be made subject to all outstanding city and county taxes and all local improvements assessments against the above-described property not included in the judgment in the above-entitled cause. A deposit of 5 percent (5%) of the successful bid will be required or $750.00, whichever is greater, in the form of cash, certified check or money order.

This the 25th day of February, 2025.

Andrew J. Neal Attorney for Plaintiff P.O. Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1713 Published March 16, 2025, and March 23, 2025

GENERAL NOTICE OF TAX FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAYNE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION FILE NO: 24 CVD 1858 WAYNE COUNTY, Plantiff vs.

JOHN OUTLAW, Defendant & US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Defendant Lienholder Under and by virtue of an Order of the Clerk of Superior Court of Wayne County, North Carolina, made and entered in the action entitled “WAYNE COUNTY vs.

JOHN OUTLAW, ET AL.,” the undersigned Commissioner will on the 26th day of March, 2025, offer for sale and sell for cash, to the

last and highest bidder at public auction, at the courthouse door in Wayne County, North Carolina, in Goldsboro at 10:00 a.m. the following described real property, lying and being in State and County aforesaid and more particularly described as follows: 115 EAGLE RIDGE DRIVE, DUDLEY (PIN: 2597510140) Being all of Lot No. 13 of Eagle Ridge Subdivision, Section One, as shown on map recorded in Plat Cabinet I, Slide 387 of the Wayne County Registry.

The sale will be made subject to all outstanding city and county taxes and all local improvements assessments against the above-described property not included in the judgment in the above-entitled cause. A deposit of 5 percent (5%) of the successful bid will be required or $750.00, whichever is greater, in the form of cash, certified check or money order.

This the 6th day of March, 2025.

Andrew J. Neal Attorney for Plaintiff P.O. Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1713 Published March 16, 2025, and March 23, 2025

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Vickie Marie Waters, deceased, late of Wayne County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 14th day of June, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 11th day of March, 2025.

Tiffany Maddox, Administrator for the Estate of Vickie Marie Waters, 304 Carew Drive, Goldsboro, North Carolina, 27530 Published March 16, 2025, March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, and April 6, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF SANDRA GINN PARKS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Sandra Ginn Parks, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and

corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 13th day of March, 2025.

Pamela Parks Creech, Executor of the Estate of Sandra Ginn Parks c/o L.E. (Trey) Taylor III, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, April 6, 2025, and April 13, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF WILL R. SULLIVAN

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Will R. Sullivan, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 13th day of March, 2025.

Rhonda Sullivan Taylor, Executor of the Estate of Will R. Sullivan c/o L.E. (Trey) Taylor III, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, April 6, 2025, and April 13, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE SALE OF COUNTY PROPERTY

An offer of $1,635 has been submitted for the purchase of certain property owned by the County of Wayne and City of Goldsboro located at 113 N. Kornegay Street, Goldsboro more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at E.C. Futrell’s Northeast corner on the West side of Kornegay Street, 240 feet Southwardly from the center of the Big Ditch where it crosses said Western boundary line of Kornegay Street, and runs thence with said Futrell’s line N. 66° 16’ W. 137.4 feet to Jerry Harris’ line; thence Northwardly with said Harris’ line and parallel with Kornegay Street 45 feet; thence S. 66° 16’ E. 130.7 feet to the Western boundary line of Kornegay Street 45 feet; thence Southwardly with the Western boundary line of Kornegay Street 45 feet to the beginning.

Anyone wishing to upset the offer that has been received shall submit a sealed bid with their offer and the required deposit to the office of the Wayne County Manager, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 by 5:00 P.M. on April 2, 2025. At that time the Clerk to the Board shall open the bids, if any, and the highest qualifying bid will become the new offer. If there is more than one bid in the highest amount, the first such bid received will become the new offer.

A qualifying higher bid is one that raises the existing offer at least 10% of the first $1,000 and 5% of the remainder. A qualifying higher bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid; the deposit may be made in cash, cashier’s check, or certified check. The County will return the deposit on any bid not accepted, and will return the deposit on an offer subject to upset if a qualifying higher bid is received. If no other bids are made the original offer to purchase will be accepted.

Further information may be obtained at the Wayne County Manager’s Office, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 or by telephone at (919) 705-1971 during normal business hours.

Andrew J. Neal Wayne County Staff Attorney PO Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1971 Published March 23, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE SALE OF COUNTY PROPERTY

An offer of $10,311 has been submitted for the purchase of certain property owned by the County of Wayne and City of Goldsboro located 426 Piedmont Airline Road, Goldsboro (PIN: 3518643021) more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING on an iron stake on the Western right of way of N.C. Secondary Road Number 1755, said iron stake being located N. 26° 10’ 02’1 E. 265 feet from an iron stake on the western right of way of N.C. Secondary Road Number 1755, said iron stake being at the intersection of said road right of way and the Northern line of the property of the US Government as shown by deed recorded in Deed Book 923, Page 110 in the Wayne County Registry, thence from the beginning with the western right of way of N.C. Secondary Road Number 1755, N. 26° 10’ 02” E. 110 feet

to an iron stake, thence leaving the western right of way of N.C. Secondary Road Number 1755, N. 63° 49’ 58” W. 370 feet to an iron stake, thence S. 26° 10’ 02” W. 110 feet to an iron stake, thence S. 63° 49’ 58” E. 370 feet to the point of beginning and being shown as Lot Three on the plat of Piedmont Village, Section Two, according to a map or plat thereof recorded in Plat Cabinet Hat Slide 312 of the Wayne County Registry.

Anyone wishing to upset the offer that has been received shall submit a sealed bid with their offer and the required deposit to the office of the Wayne County Manager, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 by 5:00 P.M. on April 2, 2025. At that time the Clerk to the Board shall open the bids, if any, and the highest qualifying bid will become the new offer. If there is more than one bid in the highest amount, the first such bid received will become the new offer.

A qualifying higher bid is one that raises the existing offer at least 10% of the first $1,000 and 5% of the remainder. A qualifying higher bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid; the deposit may be made in cash, cashier’s check, or certified check. The County will return the deposit on any bid not accepted and will return the deposit on an offer subject to upset if a qualifying higher bid is received. If no other bids are made the original offer to purchase will be accepted.

Further information may be obtained at the Wayne County Manager’s Office, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 or by telephone at (919) 705-1971 during normal business hours.

lina,” prepared by William H. Edwards, Registered Surveyor, dated January 22, 1962, and recorded in Plat Book 8, at Page 75, of the Wayne County Registry.

Anyone wishing to upset the offer that has been received shall submit a sealed bid with their offer and the required deposit to the office of the Wayne County Manager, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 by 5:00 P.M. on April 2, 2025. At that time the Clerk to the Board shall open the bids, if any, and the highest qualifying bid will become the new offer. If there is more than one bid in the highest amount, the first such bid received will become the new offer.

A qualifying higher bid is one that raises the existing offer at least 10% of the first $1,000 and 5% of the remainder. A qualifying higher bid must be accompanied by a deposit in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid; the deposit may be made in cash, cashier’s check, or certified check. The County will return the deposit on any bid not accepted and will return the deposit on an offer subject to upset if a qualifying higher bid is received. If no other bids are made the original offer to purchase will be accepted.

Further information may be obtained at the Wayne County Manager’s Office, 224 E. Walnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 or by telephone at (919) 705-1971 during normal business hours.

Andrew J. Neal Wayne County Staff Attorney PO Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1971 Published March 23, 2025

Andrew J. Neal Wayne County Staff Attorney PO Box 227 Goldsboro, NC 27533 (919) 705-1971 Published March 23, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE SALE OF COUNTY PROPERTY

An offer of $5,000 has been submitted for the purchase of certain property owned by the County of Wayne located at 3228 Central Heights Road, Goldsboro (PIN: 3529246474) more particularly described as follows: BEING Lot 17 as shown on a plat map of “James L. Butler Lots, New Hope Township, Wayne County, North Caro-

Notices continued on page 18

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NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF ALFONZO MANLEY, SR.

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Alfonzo Manley, Sr., late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 18th day of March, 2025.

Alfonzo Manley, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Alfonzo Manley, Sr. c/o Caroline Taylor Phillips, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, April 6, 2025, and April 13, 2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF DONALD VINCENT TUCKSON

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF REBECCA S. MANLEY

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Donald Vincent Tuckson, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 18th day of March, 2025.

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rebecca S. Manley, late of Wayne County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before June 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 18th day of March, 2025.

Tonya Bell Ferrell, Executor of the Estate of Donald Vincent Tuckson c/o L.E. (Trey) Taylor III, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, April 6, 2025, and April 13, 2025

Alfonzo Manley, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Rebecca S. Manley c/o Caroline Taylor Phillips, Attorney at Law Warren, Kerr, Walston, Taylor & Smith, LLP P.O. Box 1616 Goldsboro, NC 27533-1616 Published March 23, 2025, March 30, 2025, April 6, 2025, and April 13, 2025

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If you would like to join the Wayne County government and make Wayne Week the new home of your public and legal notices, you can: SEND US an email to notices@newoldnorth.com CALL US at 919-648-9905 STOP BY our downtown Goldsboro office, located at 219 North John Street 18

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Foo d & Dri

nk

WINNER

THANK YOU, WAYNE COUNTY FOR NAMING N.C. FREEDOM FEST

BEST OF THE BOOT! ... and get ready, because the Sept. 6, 2025 version is sure to be our best festival yet!

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. Wayne WEEK . 19

the SPECTATOR

Dudley diamond days

The Southern Wayne baseball team hosted Hunt Tuesday evening — drawing a crowd that, win or lose, was excited to watch some baseball.

PHOTOS by KEN FINE 20

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Congratulations to the BEST team in NORTH CAROLINA!

The Wayne County Clerk’s Office was one of only six offices in the state to achieve an “Effective” audit opinion for our internal audit — the highest opinion given, which indicates excellence in minimizing potential risks.

I feel so blessed to work with all of you.

Thank you for helping Wayne County shine!

Sending you love and best wishes as we take on this new year together as a community!

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Julie Whitfield, Wayne County Clerk of Court

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. Wayne WEEK . 23

JERICHO FA R M S

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EASTERN NC’S PREMIERE WHOLESALE GROWER OFFERING A WIDE VARIETY OF TREES AND SHRUBS 3 GALLON - 25 GALLON