Wayne County Board of Education Announces July Meeting Schedule

Wayne County Board of Education Announces July Meeting Schedule

July 5, 2025 Deonna Starks

GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Wayne County Board of Education will hold its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the Wayne County Public Schools Central Services building.

Meeting Details and Location

The meeting will take place in the boardroom at 2001 E. Royall Avenue in Goldsboro. Board members are scheduled to convene at 3:30 p.m. for a closed session, which will be followed by an open session accessible to the public.

Public Access and Viewing Options

Community members have multiple options for following the proceedings. The meeting will be streamed live on YouTube, accessible through the district’s website at www.waynecountyschools.org or directly at www.youtube.com/@WCPSLive. Local residents can also watch the live coverage on Channel 18 via Spectrum Cable.

Meeting Documentation

The official meeting agenda will be posted and made available to the public at http://www.boarddocs.com/nc/wcpsnc/Board.nsf/Public#. Citizens interested in reviewing upcoming agenda items are encouraged to check this resource prior to the meeting.

Future Meeting Schedule

The Wayne County Board of Education maintains a regular meeting schedule throughout the academic year. A complete calendar of upcoming meetings for the 2025-2026 school year is available through the district’s 2025-2026 Monthly Meeting Schedule, accessible on the district website.

The July 7 meeting represents the board’s continued commitment to transparent governance and community engagement in educational decision-making for Wayne County students and families.

Halifax County Highway to Close Monday for Drainage Work

Halifax County Highway to Close Monday for Drainage Work

July 5, 2025 Deonna Starks

HALIFAX COUNTY, N.C. — A portion of N.C. 48 in Halifax County will be temporarily closed beginning Monday as state contractors perform drainage improvements on the roadway.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation announced the closure will affect the stretch of highway between Medoc Mountain Road to the north and the intersection of Silvertown Road and Ringwood Road west of Enfield.

Contract crews will replace two crossline pipes located beneath the highway during the closure period. The work is scheduled to begin Monday morning and is expected to be completed by July 11, weather permitting.

Motorists will be detoured using Medoc Mountain Road and Ringwood Road while the highway remains closed to through-traffic. The state transportation department is advising drivers to allow extra time for their commutes and exercise caution when traveling near the work zone.

NCDOT has posted detour signs to guide drivers around the closure. Real-time traffic information is available at DriveNC.gov and through the department’s social media channels.

The temporary closure is part of ongoing infrastructure maintenance efforts to improve drainage systems along state highways in Halifax County.

Royal Banquet Hall to Host 5th of July Bash Celebration

Royal Banquet Hall to Host 5th of July Bash Celebration

July 4, 2025 Deonna Starks

STANTONSBURG N.C. — The Royal Banquet Hall is preparing to host a festive 5th of July Bash, offering the community a chance to extend their Independence Day celebrations with music, dancing, and socializing.

Event Highlights and Entertainment

The weekend celebration will feature a diverse musical lineup designed to appeal to all ages and tastes. Attendees can expect to hear old school and new school Hip Hop and R&B hits, alongside Reggae and Afro Beats. The event will also include line dancing opportunities, encouraging guests to participate in the festivities.

Atmosphere and Activities

Organizers are promoting the bash as an ideal way to kick off the holiday weekend, catering to those looking to both relax and celebrate. The venue promises an environment where guests can dance, enjoy food, and connect with friends and community members.

Venue and Community Engagement

The Royal Banquet Hall will serve as the backdrop for the celebration, providing a space for local residents to come together and create lasting memories. Event organizers emphasize the social aspect of the gathering, encouraging attendees to mingle and enjoy good company.

Ticket Information

Event organizers have announced that all ticket sales are final, with no refunds available for purchased admissions. Prospective attendees are advised to plan accordingly when making their purchase decisions.

General Admission: $23.18

Early Birds: $17.85

Early Bird Special: $12.51

Purchase Tickets

The 5th of July Bash represents an opportunity for the community to extend their patriotic celebrations while enjoying live entertainment and social interaction in a festive atmosphere.

UNC Health Wayne Ranks Among Nation’s Top 323 Hospitals for Life-Saving Heart Attack Care

UNC Health Wayne Ranks Among Nation’s Top 323 Hospitals for Life-Saving Heart Attack Care

July 4, 2025 Deonna Starks

GOLDSBORO, NC — UNC Health Wayne has been recognized as one of the nation’s top-performing hospitals for heart attack treatment, receiving the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025.

The Goldsboro hospital joins an elite group of just 323 hospitals nationwide to receive this prestigious honor, which recognizes sustained excellence in cardiovascular care over multiple years.

Award Recognizes Sustained Excellence

The Platinum Performance Achievement Award acknowledges UNC Health Wayne’s commitment to implementing the highest standards of care for heart attack patients. To earn the recognition, the hospital demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain – MI Registry for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024) while performing at the highest level for specific performance measures.

The award signifies that UNC Health Wayne has successfully met aggressive goals for treating heart attack patients according to standards outlined by the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association clinical guidelines.

National Leadership in Cardiac Care

“It is an honor to award UNC Health Wayne with the Platinum Performance Award for their valuable national leadership and dedication to meeting comprehensive performance measures in patient care,” said Dr. Michael C. Kontos, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center.

Dr. Kontos emphasized that the award indicates UNC Health Wayne’s ongoing commitment to providing top-quality, guideline-driven care for heart attack patients, ensuring patients receive the highest quality cardiovascular care.

Addressing a Critical Health Challenge

The recognition comes as heart attacks continue to pose a significant health threat nationally. According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. Heart attacks occur when blood clots in coronary arteries partially or completely block blood flow to the heart muscle.

Current treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to blocked arteries, smoking cessation counseling, and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Local Leadership Response

Dr. Jessie Tucker, President and CEO of UNC Health Wayne, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that the recognition reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of cardiac care for the community.

“Earning this achievement award demonstrates the dedication of our medical staff and employees to consistently provide life-saving treatment that exceeds national standards,” Tucker said.

Quality Improvement Through Data

The Chest Pain – MI Registry program engages hospitals in a comprehensive quality improvement process that uses data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care for heart attack patients.

The registry empowers healthcare provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to current, science-based guidelines and establishes national standards for understanding and improving the quality, safety, and outcomes of care for patients with coronary artery disease.

About the American College of Cardiology

The American College of Cardiology serves as the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health. Since 1949, the ACC has been the preeminent source of professional medical education for cardiovascular care teams, credentialing professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications.

The organization leads in the formation of health policy, standards, and guidelines through its JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, and CardioSmart patient resources.

UNC Health Wayne Cardiac Medical Director Dr. Dwijesh Patel (L) and Cardiologist, Dr. Waheed Akhtar (R), and the multi-disciplinary groups serving the cardiac patients of UNC Health Wayne received the American College of Cardiology's NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for exceeding the standard level of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations
UNC Health Wayne Cardiac Medical Director Dr. Dwijesh Patel (L) and Cardiologist, Dr. Waheed Akhtar (R), and the multi-disciplinary groups serving the cardiac patients of UNC Health Wayne received the American College of Cardiology's NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for exceeding the standard level of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations
UNC Health Wayne Cardiac Medical Director Dr. Dwijesh Patel (L) and Cardiologist, Dr. Waheed Akhtar (R), and the multi-disciplinary groups serving the cardiac patients of UNC Health Wayne received the American College of Cardiology's NCDR Chest Pain-MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for exceeding the standard level of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations
Goldsboro Opens Applications for Mayor’s Youth Council

Goldsboro Opens Applications for Mayor’s Youth Council

July 4, 2025 Deonna Starks

GOLDSBORO, N.C. — If you haven’t already heard! The City of Goldsboro’s Community Relations and Development Department is currently accepting applications for the Mayor’s Youth Council, with the deadline set for July 31.

Program Open to All Local High School Students

The Goldsboro Mayor’s Youth Council welcomes participation from all local high school students, including those attending area private schools and home-schooled students. The inclusive program aims to engage young people from diverse educational backgrounds in local government and community involvement.

How to Apply

Students interested in joining the Mayor’s Youth Council can download the application by visiting the city’s official website at https://www.goldsboronc.gov/…/GYC-Application-FY25-26-2….

For additional information about the program, eligibility requirements, and council activities, visit https://www.goldsboronc.gov/communi…/mayors-youth-council/.

About the Mayor’s Youth Council

The Mayor’s Youth Council provides high school students with opportunities to participate in local government, develop leadership skills, and contribute to their community’s development and decision-making processes.

Interested students are encouraged to submit their applications before the July 31 deadline to ensure consideration for the upcoming council term.

North Carolina Education Leaders Back Governor Stein’s Veto of Charter School Oversight Bill

North Carolina Education Leaders Back Governor Stein’s Veto of Charter School Oversight Bill

July 4, 2025 Deonna Starks

NORTH CAROLINA — North Carolina’s top education officials are voicing strong support for Governor Josh Stein’s veto of Senate Bill 254, citing constitutional concerns over provisions that would transfer charter school oversight responsibilities away from established state authorities.

State Board of Education Chairman Eric Davis and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green issued a joint statement expressing “deep concern” about the Charter School Review Board (CSRB) provisions contained within the legislation.

Constitutional Authority at Center of Dispute

The education leaders argue that Senate Bill 254 would unconstitutionally strip core oversight, accountability, and rulemaking responsibilities for charter schools from the North Carolina State Board of Education and the state superintendent—both constitutionally established authorities responsible for supervising the state’s public school system.

“Charter schools are public schools,” the officials emphasized in their statement, noting that the bill would transfer these constitutional responsibilities to “a non-constitutional body, the CSRB.”

According to Davis and Green, the legislation would “severely hinder” their ability to execute constitutional mandates in service of all public school students and threaten their capacity to ensure all students receive their constitutionally guaranteed education.

Commitment to Charter School Innovation Remains Strong

Despite their opposition to the bill, both officials reaffirmed their support for high-quality charter schools as innovative public institutions that can meet diverse student needs.

“We believe in the promise of high-quality charter schools as innovative public schools that can meet student needs in diverse ways,” they stated, while emphasizing their commitment to strengthening relationships with charter school leaders and fostering collaboration across all North Carolina public schools.

New Collaborative Initiatives Underway

The state superintendent has already initiated efforts to improve coordination between charter and traditional public schools. Beginning this summer, charter leaders will attend district superintendents’ meetings, with district leaders reciprocating by attending charter meetings.

These collaborative efforts are part of a broader strategic plan scheduled for State Board of Education approval in August 2025. The plan includes the creation of a cross-sector Innovation Leadership Council featuring charter leaders, public school district leaders, lab school leaders, and North Carolina Department of Public Instruction staff.

The council will focus on guiding knowledge transfer and scaling up promising innovative educational practices across all public school sectors.

Concerns About System Fragmentation

The education leaders warned that Senate Bill 254 would create negative consequences for the state’s public school system, pushing it “toward fragmentation, confusion, loss of accountability and diminished public trust.”

They emphasized that effective collaboration requires “shared purpose and consistent oversight”—elements they believe the legislation would undermine.

Looking Forward

Davis and Green concluded their statement by expressing willingness to work with lawmakers on alternative approaches that maintain system integrity.

“We look forward to working with lawmakers to ensure that our public school system remains strong, accountable and worthy of our communities’ confidence,” they stated.

The veto represents a significant development in ongoing debates over charter school governance in North Carolina, highlighting tensions between legislative efforts to expand charter school autonomy and constitutional requirements for unified educational oversight.

The Fallen Outdoors: Combating Veteran Suicide Through Outdoor Adventures

The Fallen Outdoors: Combating Veteran Suicide Through Outdoor Adventures

July 4, 2025 Deonna Starks

GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Fallen Outdoors (TFO), a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, continues its mission to support Veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star families through therapeutic outdoor adventures. With operations spanning 43 states, the organization has grown from a simple idea conceived on an Afghan mountaintop to a nationwide movement serving tens of thousands of veterans annually.

From Afghanistan to America: The Organization’s Origin Story

The Fallen Outdoors began in 2008 on a remote mountaintop outpost in Afghanistan, where three soldiers—Staff Sergeant John Bates, Specialist Eric Finnigan, and Specialist Eric Bakken—recognized the profound impact that spending time in nature had on their well-being. What started as informal hunting and fishing trips for fellow service members has transformed into a comprehensive support network.

After years of organic growth, TFO received its official 501(c)(3) status in October 2015. The organization was formally founded in 2009, with the mission expanding beyond simple outdoor recreation to address a critical national crisis.

Fighting the “22 a Day” Statistic

“Everything we do is to fight the 22 a day statistic of veteran suicide,” explains Prostaff Joe D. Cason, referencing the alarming rate of veteran suicides in America. “We understand someone sitting in a room by themselves dwelling on things that they saw, did, that they know about, and who they lost. That is not good for anyone’s mental health.”

The organization’s approach is deliberately inclusive. Cason stated, “The entire point of The Fallen Outdoors organization is to get men and women veterans of any class and Gold Star Family members outside,” Cason said. “We do not care if you served for a week or served for years, every veteran is welcome.”

Comprehensive Programming and Operations

TFO operates through a structured regional system with the East Coast region being one of several divisions nationwide. The organization maintains 50-55 staff members who organize and supervise trips at national, regional, and state levels. In North Carolina alone, 24 staff members coordinate activities for veterans throughout the state.

2024 Programming Results

  • 71 total trips including hunting, fishing, baseball games, and hockey games
  • 421 veterans participated across all activities
  • Diverse programming beyond traditional outdoor activities

2025 Progress

As of mid-2025, the organization has already facilitated:

  • 21 trips serving 131 veterans
  • 6 shows and events for exposure and networking

No-Cost Commitment to Veterans

All TFO activities are provided at no cost to participants. “Everything you need, we are able to help out and take care of,” Cason explains. Veterans need only ensure they have proper state licensing for hunting and fishing activities.

The organization’s trip selection process operates through their Facebook page, where interested participants can sign up for announced trips. Board members conduct drawings to select primary participants and alternates, ensuring fair access to all opportunities.

Strategic Partnerships and Fundraising

TFO has developed significant partnerships to expand their reach. A notable 2025 sponsorship deal with Carteret Speedway includes billboard advertising and race tickets for veterans and their families. Recent events have taken veteran families to races, providing entertainment beyond traditional outdoor activities.

Major Fundraising Events

  • Annual Banquet (August 23rd): The organization’s largest fundraiser featuring raffles, silent auctions, and live auctions
  • Freedom Fest: Community exposure events with merchandise sales and raffles
  • Coastal Fishing Events: Large-scale activities where 6-8 boat captains donate their vessels for veteran fishing trips, recently accommodating 45 veterans

Leadership and Vision

Founder Eric Bakken

Born and raised in Minnesota, Bakken served nearly eight years as an 11B infantry soldier, including multiple deployments for Operation Enduring Freedom. He left the Army in 2015 to focus on growing TFO. His daughter Finnley is named after his best friend Eric Finnigan, who was killed in Afghanistan during their first tour in 2009.

“One thing I wanted to strive for when I built TFO was that I wanted it to be open to all veterans of all branches and backgrounds,” Bakken states. “If you served honorably, you are my brother and sister. I do not care how long you served, what branch, what job, combat or garrison.”

Executive Leadership Team

The organization operates under a robust leadership structure including:

  • Branden Trager, President: Active-duty Army with 21 years of service, stationed in the Pacific Northwest
  • Mike Unruh, Vice President: Recently retired after 20 years as a Criminal Investigator, runs kayak fishing series
  • Robert Casey, Staff Manager: Retired Marine Corps after 24 years, joined TFO after meeting Bakken in 2015
  • Adam Lanier, Executive Director: Former Marine Corps and law enforcement, leads Team Kansas and serves as Midwest Director
  • Ducky Lique, Treasurer: Army veteran, leads Team Virginia organizing therapeutic outdoor excursions
  • Clayton Yantis, Secretary: Medically retired Army veteran who served 13 years

Mental Health Integration

TFO recognizes the importance of professional mental health support alongside outdoor therapy. The organization recommends certified veteran mental health services, with many staff members working for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Their Facebook page serves as a resource where veterans and service members can ask VA-related questions.

Community Impact and Future Growth

The organization’s growth from three soldiers’ informal trips to a national network demonstrates the critical need for veteran support services. By combining outdoor recreation with peer support and professional mental health resources, TFO addresses veteran wellness through a comprehensive, community-based approach.

“There is no better feeling than helping others heal by showing them the way of the Outdoors,” explains Vice President Mike Unruh. “Getting our families and our children involved is key as well, giving us a great opportunity to teach them about the conservation of our natural resources.”

Through partnerships, fundraising, and dedicated volunteer staff, The Fallen Outdoors continues expanding its reach, working to ensure no veteran faces their challenges alone.

Sandy Ledbetter

Sandy Ledbetter

July 3, 2025 Deonna Starks

June 30, 2025, 76, Goldsboro —

Sandra “Sandy” Adams Ledbetter, 76, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Wayne UNC Healthcare. Born in Prince George County, Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Julian David Altman and Gladys Ruth Dixon Adams. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, April Smith; and adoptive father, Helton Lee Adams.

Sandy devoted many years of her life to caring for others as a registered nurse. She treated each patient with compassion, as if they were family. In later years, she remained a dedicated worker in various roles, including convenience store clerk, Walmart associate, and toll operator. No matter the job, Sandy was known for her strong work ethic and deep commitment to doing her best.

Family was at the heart of Sandy’s life. She retired to care for her mother in her final years, a true reflection of her loving and selfless nature. Her husband and children were her greatest joy, and she embraced her role as the family’s matriarch, always staying connected and fostering close relationships among loved ones.

At home, Sandy found joy in the kitchen. An exceptional cook, her meals were a source of comfort and connection for her family. Summertime brought a flurry of canning, with her family eagerly anticipating the fruits of her labor.

Sandy was known for her determination and her unwavering support of those she loved. With a loyal heart and strong spirit, she stood firmly for what she believed in and remained a dependable presence in her family’s lives.

In accordance with her wishes, the family will honor Sandy’s life in a private setting.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Donald Ledbetter; daughter, Glenda Wilkes (Tony); grandchildren, Shandle Wilkes, TJ Wilkes, Tina Smith (Joe Stamey), and Johnathon Smith; six great-grandchildren; sisters, Gail Wade (Tim Moore), Dawn Knutson (Ken), and June Meeks (Jody); a special nephew, David Sims; and many other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Online condolences may be shared at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

Greg Sutton

Greg Sutton

July 3, 2025 Deonna Starks

June 28, 2025, 67, Goldsboro —-

Gregory Dan Sutton, 67, passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025. Greg was born in Lenoir County to the late John Daniel “Danny” Sutton and Lottie Faye Hines Sutton Mercer on May 11, 1958.

Greg worked at Caswell Developmental Center as a rehabilitation therapist until his retirement. Retirement didn’t mean slowing down—just shifting gears. His days became filled with all the things he loved: family, friends, the beach, and riding his motorcycles.

Spending nearly every day at the beach, Greg enjoyed walks along the shore, fishing, and playing fetch with his dog, Brandi. Known as “Pops” to his children and “Big G” to many, he was always available to support his friends and family, investing his time and energy into the things that brought them joy.

If you ever found yourself talking to Greg, chances are you didn’t stay a stranger for long. With a personality larger than life, his ability to tell stories was beyond compare. A music enthusiast who enjoyed a broad array of styles, Greg had music playing all the time. Riding down winding roads on his motorcycle was a favorite pastime, and he’d be sure to tell you of his preference for an Indian over a Harley any day.

Greg’s love for travel was sparked every time someone brought up the possibility of a trip. When someone said, “go,” Greg already had his keys in hand. Finding his greatest joy in time with family and friends, he was always up for the next big adventure.

In keeping with his wishes, Greg’s life will be celebrated in a private setting.

Greg is survived by his wife of 43 years, Karen Alphin Sutton; sons, Brian Keith Sutton and Dustan Ross Sutton; brother, Ronnie Sutton and wife, Terry; sister, Teresa Sutton; a special friend he called a sister, Jeana; many friends with whom he enjoyed riding motorcycles and traveling; and his canine companion and “best girl,” Brandi.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

Jeffrey Allen

Jeffrey Allen

July 3, 2025 Deonna Starks

June 17, 2025, 57, Goldsboro —

Jeffrey Allen, age 57, of Goldsboro, NC transitioned on Tuesday, June17, 2025 in Wayne Co. Funeral arrangements are listed under “Obituary & Service Details” tab. Professional Services are entrusted to McIntyre Funeral Home LLC. 

Events

Bingo Night

July 15, 2025 5:00 pm La Grange Community Center
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