Legend Visits WMPM

Don Helms, steel guitar player for Hank Williams, and the man that created the very special Hank Williams sound, visited WMPM on Friday. Don appears Saturday night at the Selma Ice and Coal Plant. Helms, pictured left, was on WMPM Radio with promoter Billy Yeargin, right. The two are also working on a Hank Williams documentary.

Fire Damages Clayton Home -

These two young fire victims share flowers with Clayton firefighters Bennie Cherry following a blaze that damaged their Horne Street home. The children, Shawn and Disani Flowers, are wearing Cary and Benson EMS shirts given to them by emergency workers summoned to the scene. Photo by Carter Rabil A man and his two children escaped injury after flames broke out in their Horne Street home Thursday night. Clayton Fire Chief Lee Barbee said the fire began at the stove in the kitchen area of the home and quickly spread into the cabinets. The homeowner used a fire extinguisher to help contain the fire until crews arrived. Chief Barbee said firefighters had the flames out in less than a minute after arriving on the scene.

Teen Formally Charged With Arson In Smithfield Church Fire

On Friday, a Smithfield teen was formally charged with setting a fire that destroyed Whitley Memorial United Methodist Church on Sunday. Alvin Lee Parrish, 17, has been in custody since Sunday morning. He was originally charged by Smithfield police detectives with breaking into the church and a nearby convenience store, stealing three cases of beer. After the arson charges were filed, police announced they believe Parrish set the fire in the back of the sanctuary, near the office area, with materials that were readily available. Bail for Parrish was also increased to $140,000.

Fire Destroys Popular Country Store

A large fire destroyed J.R.'s Country Store Thursday night. The store is located on Green Path Road near the Johnston-Sampson county line. A kerosene tank exploded just as the first fire engine was arriving at the scene, and a nearby mobile home and car were damaged by the intense heat. The business was owned by William Junior Johnson, but the building was owned by Marie Holmes, 78, and her family, who built the store in 1957. When Marie's husband, J.T. Holmes, died in 1998, she began leasing out the building. Marie's grandson, Landon Holmes, noticed a dark-colored, four-door car parked outside the store Thursday night just before midnight. About a half hour later, he received a call that the store was on fire. Landon said he didn't think anything about the car parked out front at first, because people sometimes used the store as a meeting place. However, he now thinks the car and the fire are related. The Sampson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the fire, but officers won’t say if they suspect arson.

Agricultural Issues Forum Held In Smithfield

Nearly 100 people attended an Agricultural Issues Forum on Friday at the Johnston County Agricultural Center in Smithfield . The Business of Farming: 21st Century Challenges and Opportunities forum featured a number of speakers, including Congressman Bob Etheridge, NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler, County Commissioners Cookie Pope, Wade Stewart, and Ray Woodall. Commissioner Chairwoman Pope said, “ Johnston County is proud of its farm community and the contributions made by those associated with agriculture and/or agribusiness. This business called ‘farming’ has supported families throughout the generations and continues to be the number one income producer for the State of North Carolina .” The forum was held to discuss ways for the dwindling numbers of farmers to make a profit. New housing developments are now being built where tobacco and other products once grew. The forum also discussed bio-fuels, agribusiness and agritourism. Pope who also serves on the NC Association of County Commissioners Agriculture Steering Committee added, “Serving on this committee gives me, an old farm girl, an opportunity to voice my opinion and to stay abreast of the opportunities and possibilities for farm families.”

Car Slams Into Tree Near Benson

The Highway Patrol is investigating whether a problem with a tire led to a serious accident Thursday evening on Hannah Creek Road near Interstate 95. Danielle Lynn Price, 23, of Benson was traveling down the roadway in her Mazda when it veered sharply off the roadway and slammed head-on into a tree. The crash was so violent it took rescue crews from Benson Fire and EMS forty minutes to extricate her from the wreckage. Trooper D.E. Edwards told WMPM a witness to the accident was traveling behind Price and said they saw a tire on her car blow out at the same time Price lost control of her car. Another witness said he heard a loud pop before hearing the crash. Price was taken to WakeMed for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, Trooper Edwards said.

Moped Driver Run Over By Log Truck

A Smithfield man was killed after his moped collided with a fully loaded log truck Thursday afternoon on Highway 70 at Oak Street . Witnesses said the moped, driven by 58-year-old Pedro Franco Ramirez of Buffalo Road , was traveling westbound, but weaving in the roadway, when a tractor trailer driven by Alton Hoges, 49, of Washington , NC , also traveling westbound, tried to pass him. As the truck was passing the moped, witnesses told police the moped swerved into the trailer just in front of the rear tires. The witness, who checked Ramirez for a pulse, said she detected a strong odor of alcohol on his body. Smithfield Police are still investigating the accident and haven’t ruled out the possibility of charges.

Police Captain Arrests Photographer At Accident Scene

You decide. Is photographer Carter Rabil (right) doing anything wrong when he was arrested by Police Captain Bruce Gentry on Thursday? Captain Gentry claimed the photographer was disorderly and resisting a police officer. Rabil was behind police crime scene tape when he was handcuffed. Rabil was later released from custody under a $5,000 bond. WMPM Photo.

A Smithfield police captain is accused of overstepping his authority during the arrest of a photographer at the scene of Thursday’s fatal accident on Highway 70 in Smithfield . Mitchell Carter Rabil, an independent photographer, was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting a police officer. Rabil, and WMPM News Director Mickey Lamm were at the accident site taking pictures when Captain Bruce Gentry reportedly asked Rabil to “step back out of the immediate area,” according to Police Chief Steve Gillikin. At the time, police had not placed any crime scene tape at the scene, and were actually asking the media to stand farther away from the accident than the general public and bystanders, according to Lamm. “After Carter moved behind the crime scene tape that was erected, Captain Gentry continued to harass him,” Lamm said. Captain Gentry summoned Lt. Ryan Sheppard over and the two officers arrested Rabil. During the arrest by the two officers, Captain Gentry reportedly threatened to taser Rabil unless he dropped his camera equipment. This is not the first run in between Captain Gentry and the media, nor is this the first time Rabil has been accused by police of overstepping his bounds. Lamm said Smithfield police officers have attempted to hamper him at two other scenes this month alone. Rabil later posted a $5,000 unsecured bond and was released pending a May 24 court date. Rabil does independent photography work for 1270wmpm.com and other local media outlets, but was not covering the story for WMPM on Thursday when the incident occurred.

3 Robbed At Gunpoint During Midday Home Invasion

Selma Police are looking for three suspects in connection with a home invasion. It happened around noontime on Tuesday. The suspects entered a residence on West Oak Street and at gunpoint robbed three victims, including one victim who was briefly kidnapped. The suspects reportedly made away with TV’s, jewelry, cash, even firefighter and EMT certifications belonging to one of the victims. A getaway vehicle believed to have been used by the suspects was later recovered in Wilson ’s Mills. Anyone with any information about the home invasion is asked to contact Selma Police at 919-965-5889.

Six Car Chain Collision Caused By Speeding Driver

A total of six vehicles were involved in a chain-collision accident Thursday afternoon on Highway 70 at US301 in Selma . Police said a Ford van driven by Freeman J. Sullivan, 33, of Selma failed to reduce speed and slammed into the back of a truck driven by Don Faulk, 45, of Selma . The truck was then pushed into a Honda driven by Keri Gilchrist of Clayton. Her car was forced into the back of a Dodge operated by Sharon Denise Jones, 31, of Selma , and then into a Chevy driven by Sherman Ray Howell Jr., also of Selma . A sixth vehicle, operated by Douglas Anthony Stephenson, 18, of Benson was also struck. Officer A.G. McLamb’s accident report indicated Sullivan was traveling at approximately 50mph in a 35mph zone when he crashed into Faulk’s vehicle, which was traveling at 10mph, causing the chain-collision. Selma EMS treated at least one driver for minor injuries.

Clayton Man Wins $100,000 In Education Lottery

Allen Pulley of Clayton is $100,000 richer. Pulley, who has worked for 47 years as an auto painter, won the money playing the NASCAR themed instant scratch-off ticket in the North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL). Pulley purchased his winning ticket at the Hasty Mart on Highway 42 West in Clayton. When he discovered he had won his first words were, “Thank you Lord for blessing me.” The NCEL is waiting to award a $240,068 prize to a “Carolina Cash 5” player who purchased a ticket for Tuesday’s drawing at Country Store & Grill in Lillington. The top prize was won by a single ticket matching all five balls. The NCEL has yet to hear from the winner as of Friday morning.

Man On Drug Diversion Program Arrested For Growing Marijuana

A Smithfield teenager is facing felony charges for allegedly growing marijuana, in violation of an agreement he signed in court in February not to violate any laws. Herman Verrand Daniels II, 19, was arrested Wednesday after narcotics agents went to a Jon Drive home and reportedly found 3 marijuana plants growing beside the house. A small amount of marijuana and a large quantity of drug paraphernalia was allegedly found inside the residence. Daniels appeared before District Court Judge Andy Corbett on February 22 on felony marijuana possession charges. Daniels agreed to enter a drug diversion program and not violate any laws. In return, the case against him would be dismissed in February 2008. Court documents from February indicate Daniels admitted to possession marijuana and drug paraphernalia on two occasions. Daniels is now facing two new felony and two misdemeanor drug charges. He was placed in the Johnston County Jail under a $27,500 bond.

Two From JCC Are Academic Excellence Winners

JCC students Erica Massey, left, and Kelly Jo Capps are recipients of the 2007 North Carolina Community College System Academic Excellence Award. Two students from Johnston Community College have been selected as winners of the North Carolina Community College System Academic Excellence Award. Kelly Jo Capps of Pine Level and Erica Massey of Smithfield were chosen based on their academic achievements and outstanding leadership. Capps, of Pine Level, is pursuing her associate’s degree in medical sonography from JCC. After graduation, she plans to study at Mount Olive College and earn her Bachelor of Science degree. The daughter of Ken and Connie Capps, she served as a student ambassador this year. “It was truly an honor to receive the Academic Excellence Award for 2007,” Capps said. “By receiving this award it proves that studying hard doesn’t go unrecognized.” Massey of Smithfield will graduate from JCC’s radiography program in May. She plans to work at Wayne Memorial Hospital while she continues her education in the nuclear medicine program at JCC. The daughter of Michael and Debbie Massey, she served as a student ambassador for two years and is a member of the Radiography Club. “It is a great honor to be the recipient of the Academic Excellence Award,” Massey said. “I have been working very hard on building my career in radiology at Johnston Community College and this award is a great way to represent the college wherever I go.” Dr. Don Reichard, College president, praised the students for their hard work and academic success. “We at JCC are so proud of the outstanding achievements of Kelly and Erica,” Reichard said. “We are very fortunate to have students with their academic accomplishments and initiative representing the College, and we wish them continued success in the future.” Capps and Massey were two of 116 students enrolled in community colleges across the state to receive the award. They were honored Tuesday at a luncheon at the Hilton North Raleigh.

Moped Driver Killed In Collision With Log Truck

Smithfield Police are investigating a fatal accident between a log truck and a moped. It happened just after 1:00pm Thursday on Highway 70 at College Road . The name of the moped operator who was killed was not immediately released, pending notification of the next of kin. Smithfield Police Captain Bruce Gentry said it appeared the log truck and moped were both traveling westbound when the two collided. Traffic was rerouted around the crash site for more than an hour.

Purolator Plant Could Soon Have New Owner

There are reports the Purolator Plant in Kenly could be sold and a new company take over the facility later this year. Officials said the facility is currently under contract to be sold within 60 days. The plant is located on Johnston Parkway , in the Kenly Industrial Park , adjacent to Interstate 95. Last September, CLARCOR Air Filtrations Products, which owned the Kenly plant, announced the facility would close on November 6, displacing 160 workers. The plant has been vacant since that time. . Kenly Town Manager Scott Shelton told WMPM on Thursday, “It would certainly help the Kenly area if a business moved into the old Purolator site and employed several people. The local economy would benefit in a variety of ways. I trust that Mike DeSherbenin and the rest of the staff at the county economic development office are doing all they can to bring a business there.” Officials, who are working with the potential buyer of the site, won’t disclose any specific information about the type of company looking to buy the property. Purolator’s closing last year came just months after Eaton Corporation in Selma , a manufacturer of electrical products, announced their closing, eliminating 200 full and part-time workers.

Injury Of 4-Month-Old Baby Investigated By Police, DSS

A 4-month-old baby boy was rushed to Johnston Memorial Hospital last week after being badly injured. Now the Department of Social Services (DSS) and Smithfield Police want to find out how the infant was hurt. Police said x-rays revealed broken bones, including a broken arm on the 4-month-old little boy. Police said the parents live in Smithfield , but they would not release their names. Authorities also aren’t saying who has custody of the baby. Hospital officials alerted social workers about the infant’s injuries. They, in turn called police.

Two Arrested Following Burglary, Hit and Run Accident

Witnesses to a hit and run accident Wednesday afternoon on Brogden Road told officers the occupants of a car fleeing from the scene tossed two TV’s, a video game system, and a pair of boots from the car as it made a quick getaway. Johnston County deputies located the hit and run vehicle abandoned on Yelverton Grove Road but found the two suspects walking nearby. Jordan Tolieto, 18, and Martell Toleito, 22, of Packing Plant Road , Smithfield are accused of breaking into a home on Brogden Road , and as they fled from the burglary, crashed into an innocent motorist’s car. Both men are facing felony charges.

Benson Teen Charged With Rape

A Benson teenager was arrested in District Court in Harnett County on charges of statutory rape of a person under 12 years of age. Zachary Everett Goodwin, 19, of Sunset Drive, Benson, remains in the Harnett County Jail in lieu of $100,000 secured bond. According to arrest reports, Goodwin admitted to being a member of the Bloods street gang.

Driver Escaped Injury After Semi Flips

Surprisingly no one was hurt after an 18-wheeler, carrying salvaged cars, flipped and ended up in a Johnston County resident’s yard Wednesday just outside Angier on N.C. 210. The driver of the twisted cargo, who was sipping on a can of Pepsi under a shade tree, was amazingly unharmed. He did not want to make a comment. The truck is owned by Young’s Auto Salvage out of Benson. The 50/210 Fire Department responded to the call. Assistant Chief Andy Penny reported there appeared to only be one vehicle involved with no injuries. Members of the fire department directed traffic on Highway 210, which was reduced to just one lane of travel until the wreckage was cleared. Photo by Wendy Spears/The Daily Record

Man On Drug Diversion Program Arrested For Growing Marijuana

A Smithfield teenager is facing felony charges for allegedly growing marijuana, in violation of an agreement he signed in court in February not to violate any laws. Herman Verrand Daniels II, 19, was arrested Wednesday after narcotics agents went to a Jon Drive home and reportedly found 3 marijuana plants growing beside the house. A small amount of marijuana and a large quantity of drug paraphernalia was allegedly found inside the residence. Daniels appeared before District Court Judge Andy Corbett on February 22 on felony marijuana possession charges. Daniels agreed to enter a drug diversion program and not violate any laws. In return, the case against him would be dismissed in February 2008. Court documents from February indicate Daniels admitted to possession marijuana and drug paraphernalia on two occasions. Daniels is now facing two new felony and two misdemeanor drug charges. He was placed in the Johnston County Jail under a $27,500 bond.

Two From JCC Are Academic Excellence Winners

CC students Erica Massey, left, and Kelly Jo Capps are recipients of the 2007 North Carolina Community College System Academic Excellence Award. Two students from Johnston Community College have been selected as winners of the North Carolina Community College System Academic Excellence Award. Kelly Jo Capps of Pine Level and Erica Massey of Smithfield were chosen based on their academic achievements and outstanding leadership. Capps, of Pine Level, is pursuing her associate’s degree in medical sonography from JCC. After graduation, she plans to study at Mount Olive College and earn her Bachelor of Science degree. The daughter of Ken and Connie Capps, she served as a student ambassador this year. “It was truly an honor to receive the Academic Excellence Award for 2007,” Capps said. “By receiving this award it proves that studying hard doesn’t go unrecognized.” Massey of Smithfield will graduate from JCC’s radiography program in May. She plans to work at Wayne Memorial Hospital while she continues her education in the nuclear medicine program at JCC. The daughter of Michael and Debbie Massey, she served as a student ambassador for two years and is a member of the Radiography Club. “It is a great honor to be the recipient of the Academic Excellence Award,” Massey said. “I have been working very hard on building my career in radiology at Johnston Community College and this award is a great way to represent the college wherever I go.” Dr. Don Reichard, College president, praised the students for their hard work and academic success. “We at JCC are so proud of the outstanding achievements of Kelly and Erica,” Reichard said. “We are very fortunate to have students with their academic accomplishments and initiative representing the College, and we wish them continued success in the future.” Capps and Massey were two of 116 students enrolled in community colleges across the state to receive the award. They were honored Tuesday at a luncheon at the Hilton North Raleigh.

Withrows Establish Annual JCC Scholarship

Jerry and Pam Withrow of Norman , Oklahoma have established an annual scholarship through the Johnston Community College Foundation to be awarded to a student with financial need. Residents of Oklahoma since 1989, the Withrows have many relatives in Johnston County and visit the area often. For 20 years, Mr. Withrow owned and operated Pizza Hut restaurants in North Carolina , including those in Smithfield and Selma , as well as South Carolina and Georgia . He also partnered in TeleDrift, Inc., an international oil equipment company in Oklahoma City . With assets over 3.4 million, the College Foundation has created and manages 78 named endowment funds and 25 named annual scholarship funds. For more information about giving opportunities, contact the College Foundation at 209-2115.

Three Arrests Now Made In $25,000 Jewelry Theft

Two local high school students are charged with breaking into a home near Clayton on April 11 taking more than $25,000 worth of jewelry. Brent Biggs, 16, (left) a student at Clayton High, and Michael Kennedy, 17, (center) a student at West Johnston High, were arrested Wednesday. A day earlier, 18-year-old Michael Anthony Rea (far right) was charged with the burglary. Johnston County deputies allege after the trio broke into the home of Candy Linton, Biggs and Rea took the stolen goods to a Clayton jewelry store and sold the merchandise. Authorities said the jewelry store owner did not know at the time the property was stolen. Rea was jailed under a $110,000 bond. Kennedy was held under a $40,000 bond, and Biggs was incarcerated under $60,000 bail.

Suspect Sought In Bojangle's ATM Theft

Raleigh Police are asking for the public’s help in finding a thief who broke into Bojangle’s on South Wilmington Street early Wednesday morning stealing an ATM machine. A review of surveillance photos and evidence shows that a light-colored truck was backed up to the business, a window was smashed, a chain was wrapped around the ATM, and the truck was used to pull the machine from the building. The ATM was then taken from the scene in the bed of the truck, which may be an older model Dodge with a dent in its door. Anyone with information that might assist the investigation of the case is asked to call the Raleigh Police Department’s Detective Division at 919-890-3555 or CrimeStoppers at 919-226-Crime (226-2746).

Drugs Found Following Chase

A brief chase led to the arrest of a Wayne County man on felony drug charges. Deputies tried to stop a car driven by Robert Eric Dobson because it matched the description of a vehicle seen at a residential burglary minutes earlier. Dobson tried to elude arrest but was eventually stopped. The 30-year-old man wasn’t charged in the break-in, but officers did arrest him for allegedly having cocaine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia in his vehicle.

3 Additional Persons Of Interests Interviewed By Police In Church Arson Investigation

Smithfield Police have now interviewed three persons of interest in connection with a fire intentionally set Sunday morning that destroyed the Whitley Memorial United Methodist Church on Wilson ’s Mills Road . Lead Detective Dale Wood told WMPM News on Wednesday it was too early to determine if any additional persons would face charges. Seventeen-year-old Alvin Lee Parrish was arrested minutes after the fire was first discovered. He is charged with breaking into the church, but he has not been charged with setting the fire. The SBI and ATF are assisting in the investigation. Detective Wood said Parrish was at a residence behind the church while the fire was being fought. While walking behind the church, a paramedic spotted a cut on Parrish’s hand and began treating the wound. When Parrish learned police were on the way to the fire, he ran but was chased down by responding officers. Detective Wood believes Parrish broke into Dunn’s Convenient Mart and stole three cases of beer. In the process, he cut his hand on a glass door. Afterwards, police believe he broke into the church. Although investigators

9 Tips Received In First Week After Unsolved 1972 Murder Is Reopened

It’s been a week since Sheriff Steve Bizzell announced the reopening of a 35-year-old murder investigation. A newly formed Cold Case Squad is hoping to solve the murder of Bonnie Wheeler Neighbors of Benson. The 33-year-old mother of two disappeared on December 14, 1972 while on the way to school to pick up her youngest son. On December 17, her body was found at remote labor camp on Holley Grove Church Road . She had been shot twice in the abdomen. Her 3-month-old son, Glen Neighbors, was found beside her, unharmed. Since Sheriff Bizzell made the announcement on WMPM Radio on April 17, nine tips have been received. Sheriff’s Captain Buck Pipkin said each tip is being investigated. Captain Pipkin went on to say that new forensic technology now available to homicide investigators, that wasn’t available in 1972, will be used to reexamine all the evidence in the case. A special tip line has been established for those who might have information about the death of Bonnie Neighbors. The number is 919-989-5017. Callers can remain anonymous.

Pound Of Marijuana Found In Motel Room

Narcotic agents seized a pound of marijuana, plus a small amount of cocaine and ecstasy pills after raiding a room at the Village Motor Lodge in Smithfield Tuesday afternoon. Damien Lamar Dublin, of Sussex Drive , Smithfield , the only occupant in the room, is facing numerous charges. Dublin , a convicted felon, was released from prison in 2001 after serving time for selling a controlled substance. The 28-year-old man had also served time for possession of stolen goods. Dublin was jailed under a $101,000 bond.

Diamond Thief Ordered To Pay $17,445 In Restitution

A New Jersey man caught minutes after he stole a $17,445 diamond ring from a jewelry store won’t spend any time in jail, but a judge has ordered 34-year-old Jose Reyes to pay full restitution. On March 12, Reyes was captured by Smithfield Police on Industrial Park Drive . Moments earlier, Reyes had entered Zale’s Jewelers, snatched a 1.5 carat diamond ring from an employee and fled in a car. Police believe Reyes tossed the ring out of the car before being pulled over by officers, but the expensive ring was never found. Reyes was placed on probation for 5 years. Photo by Carter Rabil

Teen Charged In $25,000 Jewelry Theft -

A Clayton teenager is accused of breaking into a home on Cornwallis Road , taking over $25,000 worth of jewelry. Michael Anthony Rea, 18, of 2967 Jack Road , was arrested Tuesday in connection with an April 11 burglary at the home of Candy Linton. More arrests are anticipated. Authorities were able to identify the suspects after they reportedly sold some of the stolen property at a Clayton jewelry store, according to Tammy Amaon, a spokesperson for the Johnston County Sheriff's Office. Rea was charged with felonious breaking and entering, felonious larceny, and obtaining property by false pretenses. He was jailed under a $110,000 bond.

Father Of Girl Injured In Accident Will Be Charged With Beating Other Driver

Benitez Fernando Manuel Pereyra, 22, of Smithfield was driving this burgundy Dodge Saturday night when it was struck by a car, operated by Simon Wmysall of Goldsboro. Pereyra's 9-year-old daughter was ejected onto the highway. Afterwards, Pereyra allegedly attacked Wmysall. Pereyra will be charged with felonious assault for the beating, Wilson's Mills Police Chief Steve Little said.

Wilson ’s Mills Police will file charges against a motorist who attacked another driver following a collision that injured his daughter. Police Chief Steve Little said Benitez Pereyra, 22, of Snowberry Lane, Smithfield, was stopped for a red light on Swift Creek Road at US70 Saturday night. His 9-year-old daughter, riding in the back seat, asked her mother, Maria Perez, if she could unbuckle her seat belt and lay down. Less than 30 seconds later, Chief Little said, Pereyra’s car was the third vehicle to cross the intersection, but as he did, an eastbound Chevy Impala, driven by Simon Anthony Wmysall, 48, of Goldsboro, ran the red light crashing into the side of the Dodge. Nine-year-old Melanie Lopez was instantly ejected out a side window and onto the pavement. Pereyra ran to check on his daughter and though she was dead, Chief Little said. He then ran over to Wmysall, who was not yet out of his crushed car. Pereya reportedly began beating him in the face breaking six bones. Wmysall told police he did not remember the accident nor does he remember being assaulted afterwards. Wmysall said the last thing he remembered was stopping at Bojangle’s in Clayton, police reported. Chief Little said Pereyra will be charged with felonious assault inflicting serious bodily injury. Police do not consider Pereyra a threat to public safety and don’t plan to arrest him until his daughter is out of the hospital. Wmysall was charged with running a red light. The injured 9-year-old girl was airlifted to Duke Medical Center following the 9:10pm accident. She sustained a fractured skull, and severe cuts to her head and arm, but none of the injuries are said to be life threatening.

Ham & Yam Seeks Volunteers For May Festival

The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation and Ham & Yam Festival Committee is seeking citizens interested in volunteering during the for the 2007 Ham & Yam Festival. “We are especially excited about the 2007 Ham & Yam Festival,” states Tara Dunn, Festival Volunteer Coordinator, and DSDC Board member. “With the continued growth we have seen with the festival, each year requires us to have more and more volunteers. An hour of your time is all we are asking, but if you have more, we will take that too!” The 2007 Ham & Yam Festival is supported by area businesses and is hosted by the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation. The 2007 event will take place the weekend of May 5 and 6, 2007. If you would like to be a volunteer, please contact Tara Dunn at Memory Lane Frame Shop at 938-2900 or by email.

State Funds Help Johnston County Protect Land And Water

North Carolina's land and water conservation trust funds provided more than $1 million for projects in Johnston County in 2006, according to the annual Green Book report released by Land for Tomorrow. The majority of the $1 million went to Smithfield Community and Aquatics Center , and preservation of Bentonville Battleground. Since 1993, the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund, Natural Heritage Trust Fund, and Parks and Recreation Trust Fund have spent more than $10.1 million in Johnston County to help conserve land and water. In the 1980s and 1990s, the General Assembly created the trusts to help support diverse environmental improvement projects. Funding for the trusts comes through a combination of appropriations, personalized license plate sales and portions of the deed transfer tax. Despite the funding of some key conservation projects, the funds allocated have not been sufficient to keep up with the needs of the state. Last year, the trusts received nearly 500 applications from local governments and conservation nonprofits totaling $540 million, but were able to provide funding of only $205 million. Recently, Land for Tomorrow asked the General Assembly to provide $200 million per year for five years to preserve and protect the state's land, water and special places before they are irreversibly lost. Just last year, the number of growing communities in North Carolina pushed our population ahead of New Jersey . More than 100,000 acres of forests, farms, stream banks, wildlife habitat and wetlands are being developed annually. North Carolina leads the nation in loss of family farms. More than 3,000 miles of streams and rivers don't meet clean water standards. "If we don't act now, we may not recognize our state in twenty years," Dixon said.

Accused Robber Rearrested After Skipping Court Date

One of the suspects charged in connection with last November’s armed robbery at Smithfield Chicken N Barbecue on North Brightleaf Boulevard has been rearrested after reportedly failing to show up for his court date. Smithfield Police picked up Jamal James English at a local fast food restaurant where he worked as a cashier. The 19-year-old man is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. At the time of the reported robbery, English was on probation after being convicted months earlier on larceny and break-in charges stemming from a July 2006 burglary at the Brightleaf Flea Market.

Lowe's Cashier Facing Embezzlement Charges

A cashier at Lowe’s Home Improvements in Smithfield is facing embezzlement charges. Ida Mae Lee, 39, of Highway 701 South, Newton Grove was arrested at the business on Tuesday after allegedly being caught stealing money from her register. Smithfield Police Captain R.J. Cuddington said store officials began watching Lee after noticing shortages at her register. On Tuesday, Lee allegedly stole $40. She was charged with felonious larceny by an employee and jailed in lieu of a $5,000 bond.

West Johnston Student Suspended After Being Caught With Knife

A student at West Johnston High won’t face any criminal charges for bringing a knife onto school grounds. On Friday, school officials got a tip the student may have a gun. After searching the student and his vehicle, only a knife was found in his car. The student, who was not named, was suspended from school. He could also face additional disciplinary action.

AWOL Marine Arrested Near Kenly

A Johnston County solider who reportedly went AWOL from the US Marine Corp Base in Camp Lejeune has been captured. Thomas Edward Webb Jr., 20, of Tedder Road , Kenly was located Tuesday after a Johnston County deputy stopped his car for a traffic violation on Antioch Church Road . Webb was placed in the Johnston County Jail without bail until he could be turned over to military police officials.

Trio Facing Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop

Three people were arrested on drug charges by the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office following a traffic stop on Swift Creek Road near Smithfield . Narcotics agents said a total of 7 grams of powder cocaine and marijuana was seized from the suspects. Nikita Lynette Finch, 28, of Clayton, Ashley Yvone Brown, 22, of Smithfield , and Shamarh Mikale McNeil, 22, of Smithfield were arrested. Brown and McNeil are charged with felony possession of cocaine. Finch was charged with maintaining a vehicle to keep a controlled substance, possession with intent to sell and deliver a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana.

Selma Man Facing Cocaine Charges

A man wanted by narcotics agents following an alleged undercover cocaine buy in January on Big Pine Road outside of Clayton has been apprehended. Johnston County deputies located Larry Jermaine Session, 22, of Selma during a traffic stop on Britt Street in Smithfield . While being arrested, officers reportedly found a small amount of marijuana. Session is charged with felonious possession of cocaine, conspiracy to sell cocaine, and misdemeanor marijuana possession. Bail was set at $101,000.

Kenly Teen Facing Felony Marijuana Charges

Following alleged complaints about illegal drug activity at an apartment on Alford Avenue in Kenly, narcotics agents with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office went to the location on Friday. In plain view from the front door, agents said they saw marijuana lying on a coffee table. John Perry Wise, 19, of 605 E. Fremont Street , Kenly was arrested on felony drug charges. Officers reportedly seized 14 grams of marijuana from the apartment.

Cocaine, Handgun Found During Traffic Stop

Deputies reportedly found cocaine and a loaded 38 caliber handgun during a traffic stop on Braswell Road Saturday afternoon. Andrew Jackson Rose, 26, of Smithfield was arrested and jailed under a $16,000 bond. Deputies said they found the drugs in his pants pockets.

Local Lawmaker Asks US Attorney General To Expedite Claims For Emergency Workers

US Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) is urging U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales to expedite all outstanding claims under the Hometown Heroes Survivor Benefits Act. Three years after the bill, first introduced by Etheridge, became law, the Department of Justice has approved only two claims out of almost 250 applications. "It is unacceptable for the families of our nation's first responders to be treated with such disregard. They have waited too long," Rep. Etheridge said. In a letter to Gonzales, Etheridge expressed concerns that the Department of Justice may be intentionally misinterpreting the intent of Congress by rejecting 38 claims and failing to issue decisions on 210 others. Etheridge asked Gonzales to expedite all pending claims and to explain why more than three zones of the applications have been rejected. The law extends federal survivor benefits to the families of firefighters, police officers and emergency workers who die of heart attack or stroke in the line of duty. Many families have been waiting for a decision from the department on their claims since the bill became law in December 2003. The legislation was intended to create a presumption that the heart attack or stroke was caused by work in the line of duty, unless there was clear evidence to the contrary. However, the Department has placed an unnecessary burden on applicants by requiring 10 years of medical history. Heart attacks and strokes account for nearly half of firefighter deaths each year. A study published by the Harvard School of Public Health on March 22 found that firefighters face a much higher risk of death from a heart attack than the general population - up to 100 times greater when battling a fire. Etheridge's bill was endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, the International Union of Police Associations and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. The legislation is rooted in North Carolina , born out of a letter written to Etheridge by Mike Williams of Bunn Level, who worked as the assistant chief of Flat Branch Volunteer Fire Department and in the Office of the State Fire Marshal, who was inspired by the death of a North Carolina firefighter.

Johnston County Soldier Killed In Iraq

Army Sgt. Clint Moore, 27, of Benson was killed Monday in Iraq. Moore, pictured here in Sept. 2003, was removing a yellow ribbon placed over the entrance to South Johnston High School. Officials put the ribbon up when Moore, a 1998 graduate, left for his first tour in Iraq. They made him promise to take the ribbon down when he returned. Moore was on his second tour of duty in Iraq when he was killed. Photo courtesy The Daily Record

A Johnston County man was killed while serving in Iraq on Monday. Army Sgt. Clint Moore, 27, of Woods Crossroads Road , Benson, and the son of Mr. & Mrs. Ronnie Moore of Benson, was a 1998 graduate of South Johnston High School . He joined the army that same year. His death was confirmed Tuesday by his uncle, Ricky Moore of Benson. The family is still awaiting more details from the Department of Defense. During his first tour of duty in Iraq, the staff at South Johnston placed a yellow ribbon over the entrance to the school, with the stipulation he take it down when he returned home. Moore did as he promised, and took the ribbon down in September 2003. At the time, Moores ’ heart was still with the men and women still fighting in Iraq . “Don’t forget them. Keep them in your prayers,” he said. Sgt. Moore told the media that day ambushes were worse than battles. “The worst part is waiting for it because you know it’s coming.” Associate Superintendent of Johnston County Schools, Dr. Ed Croom, was principal at South Johnston the year Moore returned to take his ribbon down. Dr. Croom told WMPM, “Clint was a very outgoing student. If you needed someone to step up and help you do something, that was Clint. It is really a tragic loss.” Sgt. Clint Moore is not the first local casualty in the war in Iraq . Spc. Robert T. Johnson was killed in January 2006 when his Humvee was hit by a civilian vehicle. Pvt. Joseph Guerrera died in October 2003 when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device. Sgt. Marvin Miller died in April 2004 after being shot while in traffic patrol. Staff Sgt. Eric Steffenery died from an explosion and was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Whitley Church Fire Officially Ruled As Arson

A fire that destroyed Whitley Memorial United Methodist Church on Wilson ’s Mills Road Sunday morning was officially ruled arson on Tuesday. Officials said the possibility of any electrical problems was ruled out before making the announcement the blaze was intentionally set. Alvin Lee Parrish, 17, who lives within sight of the church, is charged with breaking into the sanctuary Sunday morning minutes before the 5-alarm fire was reported. However, Parrish has not been charged with setting the blaze. Smithfield police detectives spoke with two persons of interest on Monday, and are looking for at least one other individual for questioning, but so far only Parrish has been charged in the church break-in. Parrish is also implicated in another break-in Sunday morning at the nearby Dunn’s Convenient Mart where 3 cases of beer were stolen. The teen remains in the Johnston County Jail under a $100,000 bond. Photo by Carter Rabil

Clayton Fire Burns 60 Acres

A NC Forestry Service bulldozer plows a line around a fire that burned 60 acres of land off Cornwallis Road on Monday.

Clayton Fire Chief Lee Barbee says a grass and woods fire that started Monday afternoon burned nearly 60 acres of land. The NC Forestry Service is still trying to determine what sparked the fire around 4:30pm, but Clayton Fire Marshal Tony Atkinson doesn’t believe the origin is suspicious. When fire crews from Clayton, Cleveland and Garner arrived on the scene, about 5 to seven acres were already burning, Chief Barbee said. Forestry officials brought in two plows to contain the blaze behind the Hillington Estates Subdivision off Cornwallis Road near the Johnston-Wake County line. Although the fire was contained Monday night, Clayton firemen returned to the scene Tuesday to put out some hot spots still smoldering.

Highway Patrol, DOT Kick Off Work Zone Enforcement Campaign

State Trooper D.J. Hare sits in his unmarked cruiser looking for violators. Troopers will use unmarked cars, helicopters, and motorcycles during Operation Drive Smart 2007 that kicked off Tuesday in Johnston County. The Highway Patrol and NC DOT are working together to reduce the number of work zone crashes across the state.

The Highway Patrol and Department of Transportation kicked off Operation Drive Smart 2007 on Tuesday at the US70 Clayton Bypass work zone in Johnston County . Drive Smart is an effort to reduce the number of traffic accidents in work zones across the state. Troopers will increase enforcement and crackdown on excessive speeders in some of the busiest work zones. According to the DOT, there were 4,478 work zone crashes resulting in more than 1,500 injuries in 2005. Of those crashes, 30 were fatal. Speed and distraction are among the leading causes of the accidents. “Safety is the department’s number one priority and we must continue our efforts to increase work zone safety education and awareness across the state,” said Department of Transportation Secretary Lyndo Tippett. “The Highway Patrol is determined to reduce fatal collisions in these work zones, and going after speeders who recklessly endanger the public will help us do that,” said Bryan Beatty, secretary of the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety. “ Operation Drive Smart 2007 is an effort to reverse the trend of increasing speeds in work zones by irresponsible drivers.” Operation Drive Smart 2007 is a campaign that will concentrate solely on speeding, aggressive driving and other traffic violations in work zones. Although there are more than 200 work zones across North Carolina, highway construction zones that will be targeted during the operation include: the US70 Clayton Bypass in Johnston and Wake Counties, I-95 in Cumberland and Robeson counties, I-85/I-40 in Guilford County, I-85 in Rowan County, I-77 in Yadkin County, I-40 in Buncombe County, I-77 in Mecklenburg County, and the US17 Bypass in Bertie County. During a similar operation in 2006, troopers issued more than 800 citations for speeding in work zones across the state.

Rotarians Raise More Than $50,000 For Scholarships

(L to R) $2,000 sponsors of the Rotary Golf Classic include Andrea Martin of Quality Therapy Services, Linwood Byrd of Byrd Surveying, Carlton Pernell of Carrier/Pernell Inc., and Tad Deaton of RBC Centura. Proceeds will fund scholarships.

The Rotary Club of Central Johnston County has raised more than $50,000 for scholarships in advance of the club’s 18th annual Rotary Golf Classic scheduled this weekend. Half of the proceeds will fund scholarships for graduating seniors at each of Johnston County ’s six high schools. The other half will fund scholarships for students of all ages attending Johnston Community College . This year’s fund-raising campaign is a major expansion of the club’s previous efforts. Over the past 17 years, more than $200,000 had been raised for scholarships – an average of almost $12,000 annually. Most of that money was used for scholarships awarded high-school seniors. Under the leadership of Golf Classic Chairman Linwood Byrd, the Rotary Club decided this year to stretch the fund-raising drive to a higher goal and include Community College scholarships. Four Oaks Bank gave this year’s campaign an early boost by committing $10,000 as the Golf Classic’s “Title Sponsor.” Five other firms are donating $2,000 each as “Co-Sponsors.” They are Byrd Surveying, First Citizens Bank, Carrier/Pernell Inc., RBC Centura, and Quality Therapy Services. Another 18 contributors are putting up $1,000 apiece as “Platinum” sponsors. In celebration of the campaign’s success, Central Johnston ’s Rotary Golf Classic will be played on Friday, April 27 at the Country Club of Johnston County with a full field of more than 30 four-member teams of golfers. An opening ceremony to thank the scholarship sponsors will be held at noon near the golf course’s first tee.

Newton Grove Man Arrested On Drugs, Weapons Charges

A 22-year-old Newton Grove man faces weapons and drug charges after he was stopped by Sampson County Sheriff's deputies this week. Marcus Antwan Jacobs was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, carrying a concealed weapon and marijuana possession. The Chevrolet Caprice Jacobs was driving was stopped by deputies for a routine traffic stop. A drug-sniffing dog reportedly identified marijuana in the vehicle, which was found during a search by the deputy. No stranger to authorities, Jacobs has already served time in prison for armed robbery, possession of firearm by a felon and breaking and entering. The robbery conviction stemmed from a 2004 holdup at a Clinton convenience store.

Smithfield Town Council Approves Involuntary Annexation Of 96 Acres Off US301, US70

Town Manager Pete Connet (right) looks on as Mayor Norman Johnson calls for a vote Monday on the involuntary annexation of 59 tracts of land, totaling just over 96 acres. The property annexed is along US301 South near Holt's Lake and US70 East near I-95.

In a special meeting, that lasted only four minutes Monday afternoon, the Smithfield Town Council voted unanimously to annex 55 tracts of land off Highway 301 South and four parcels near the US70/I-95 interchange. The largest area annexed on Monday was 78 acres on the southwestern side of the current town limits. It includes 40 dwellings and approximately 92 residents from US301, at Galilee Road, southward to Holts Lake . The annexation includes Holt’s Lake Barbecue , Blackmon’s Mobile Home Park , and the Johnston County School Bus Garage. The annexation will generate about $28,798 in additional property tax annually for the Town of Smithfield . Monday’s annexation did not include the Huntington Ridge Subdivision off Country Club Road , which had previously been considered for annexation several years ago. Four businesses and just over 18 acres of land, near the US70/I-95 interchange were also forcibly annexation Monday. They include the Village Inn, Village Restaurant, Tobacco Shop, and the Johnston County Board of Education Central Office. Annexation of the four businesses will add approximately $8,399 in property taxes annually for the town. Public hearings, held in March and April, on the involuntary annexations drew some opposition from residents who weren't interested in becoming a part of the city. Councilman Andy Moore was not present for Monday’s vote. Earlier this month, the corporate limits of Smithfield grew by an additional 10 acres, when East Carolina Farm Credit (ECFC) requested voluntary annexation of land they purchased on US70 East at Yelverton Grove Road . ECFC plans to build a new office at that location.

Speed Blamed In Crash That Killed West Johnston Student

State Trooper D.B. Finch investigates a fatal accident involving West Johnston High student Lugman "Luke" Boyd, Sunday evening on Sanders Road. Homeowner Wayne Barbour watches from his front porch. Photo by Carter Rabil



A West Johnston High student died in a high speed car crash Sunday night. The victim, Luqman "Luke" Izzudeen Boyd, 16, of Willow Springs was traveling at an estimated speed of 75mph, the NC Highway Patrol said, when he ran off Sanders Road , and overturned several times in his 2000 Saturn passenger car. Boyd was ejected. He died a short time after arriving at the hospital. Sgt. Clark White said Boyd, who was a junior at West Johnston, was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the single car accident. Grief counselors were on hand at West Johnston on Monday to talk with students after the announcement of his death was made during homeroom. Boyd was described as a well-liked and popular student. In August 2006, two West Johnston students died in an accident on Raleigh Road . Earlier this month, on April 5, a Princeton High student was killed in a crash on Highway 70.