Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

Vance Historical Society Spearheading Fundraiser For Clopton Marker

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Gill Clopton gave his time, talent and energy to shine a positive light on his community. He scanned tens of thousands of photos, documents as a way to preserve those bits of history and memories, file by file.

But friends who remember Clopton, who died Monday at the age of 61, have memories of him dropping by with a single photo of interest, covering high school sports and ringing the bell by the Salvation Army kettle at Christmas.

A visitation for Clopton will be held at Sossamon Funeral Home tonight from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by a funeral service Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Salvation Army on Ross Mill Road.

The Vance County Historical Society is collecting money to help purchase a marker for Clopton, according to Mark Pace, as a small way to show appreciation for all the work Clopton did on behalf of the historical society and for the genealogical society. Send checks or money orders made out to Vance County Historical Society, 11 E. Spring St., Oxford, NC 27565, with

“Memorial Fund for Gill Clopton” in the memo line. Or call 919.603.5182.

Pace said that he and Clopton both were Class of 1979 graduates of Vance Senior High School, and although their paths crossed when they lived and worked in Raleigh years ago, it wasn’t until about 10 years ago that the two discovered their shared enthusiasm for history.

“I’ve talked to him practically every day for the last ten years,” Pace said, recalling moments when they would ask each other obscure questions about local history.

Pace estimated that Clopton probably scanned as many as 60,000 photos, many from the local newspaper, but others from private sources and from other local agencies like the Henderson Police Department.

While talking on Thursday’s TownTalk, Pace and Bill Harris praised Clopton’s efforts and diligence to the ongoing archiving project.

“I feel very confident that the work he’s done…it will be out there and people can have access to it,” Pace said.

“Gill had the inclination to do it, he had the time to do it…and he had the meticulousness to want to sit there and want to do hours of work,” often tedious and monotonous.

“I can’t tell you how much people in the future will benefit from the work that Gill did,” Pace said.

Officials Break Ground For Shell Building At H-V Industrial Park

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Local and state officials were on hand for a groundbreaking ceremony at the Henderson-Vance Industrial Park Thursday to officially begin construction of a shell building on that campus.

“It’s a great day to see some dirt moving,” said Vance County Manager Jordan McMillen to the small group assembled on the chilly, blustery afternoon.

“This project is really about partnerships,” McMillen continued. From the city’s water and sewer extension and the nonprofit industrial park board that oversees the property to the county that is paying the bills and financing the project, McMillen said it would not be possible to build and grow without this multi-agency collaboration.

“This is a day we have anticipated for some time,” said Vance County Board of Commissioners Chair Leo Kelly. Having a shell building ready to be finished out by incoming industry puts Vance County in strong competition with other counties as companies look to locate or relocate their operations.

State legislators Lisa Barnes and Frank Sossamon, each coming off wins in the Nov. 8 midterm elections, were on hand for the ceremony. County Commissioner Tommy Hester credited Barnes for helping Vance County secure the funding for the shell building, but also for her role in getting $5 million for water projects in Henderson.

Hester also is president of the industrial park board. “Lisa stepped up and said ‘What can I do to help Vance County,’” Hester said, adding that whenever anyone asks that question, he is not shy to answer.

He said there could be a building on the site as early as January. “If you build it, they will come,” Hester told the group.

Meat Conference Dec. 6 In Rocky Mount

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The Northeast District Local Meats Conference will be held in Rocky Mount, NC on Tuesday, Dec. 6. The conference is designed for individuals interesting in creating or expanding a local meat marketing business.

The conference will begin at 9 a.m. at the East Carolina Livestock Arena, located at 1175 Kingsboro Rd. in Rocky Mount.

Some of the topics that will be discussed include N.C. Department of Agriculture meat handlers’ licensing, as well as rules and regulations, labeling claims and laws about meat sales.

In addition, there will be information about carcass evaluation, and planning, marketing and pricing.

Lunch will be included. Pre-register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/northeast-district-local-meats-conference-tickets-419613434077

 

NC Forest Service

Forest Service Offers Veterans’ Discount On Tree Seedling Purchase In November

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To show its appreciation for service to their country, the N.C. Forest Service is offering a 25 percent discount on tree seedling orders placed by active, honorably discharged or retired military personnel during the month of November.

“North Carolina is home to many veterans and current military members, many of whom are forestland owners,” Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a press statement.

November is also National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to celebrate both those who have served in the military as well as their families, for their contributions and sacrifices to the country.

“This discount is a token of appreciation as we honor them this Veteran’s Day and it also helps ensure the sustainability of forestland in the state.”

To qualify for the discount, proof of service is required. A valid military ID, Department of Defense Form  214/215 or National Guard Bureau Form 22/22A is acceptable. Standard shipping rates still apply. Tree  seedlings may be ordered by calling 1-888-NCTREES or by visiting www.buynctrees.com.

The discount applies to the first $500 of all new orders, up to a $125 discount.

Vance “State Of The County” Focuses On Positives In Service, Economy And Business

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In Thursday’s “State of the County” address sponsored by the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Henderson Rotary Club, county officials laid out a list of initiatives and programs, all of which bode well for Vance County, both in the immediate future and in the long-term.

County Manager Jordan McMillen painted a positive picture in remarks to the group of about 100 business and corporate leaders, elected officials and other key players.

“Vance County is alive and thriving,” McMillen said. “That’s not to say that we don’t have our challenges…but today’s going to be positive.”

Vance County Board of Commissioners Chairman Leo Kelly also spoke to the group assembled at the business luncheon held at Henderson Country Club.

Kelly highlighted four projects within the county that have helped to propel the county forward:

  • The $4.5 million renovation of the Eaton Johnson campus, which now houses several different agencies, from DSS and the Senior Center to GRRO and the city-county youth services
  • The second shell building in the industrial park
  • Sale of the former DSS building to the Henderson Family YMCA
  • Purchase of 2.5 acres beside the EMS building to prepare for construction of a new facility

“We’re real proud of what happened to that building,” Kelly said of the renovation of the former middle school campus. “The building is getting fantastic use.”

Finding ways to use existing buildings is one way the county has maximized its resources, but the shell building concept is one that has proven itself as well.

When Mako Medical was looking for a location in 2017, McMillen said, company leaders looked here “because we had a building.”

Public-private partnerships like the shell buildings are going to continue to play a vital role in moving the local economy forward, McMillen noted, and he encouraged the audience to continue to invest in the future of the county and their community.

The total value of all the property in Vance County comes to just shy of $3 billion, and that property generates about $26 million in tax revenue, he said. “That funds everything we do.”

More than three-quarters of the county’s total $55 million budget goes to three sectors: public safety, education and human services.

Other county services highlighted include:

  • Tax collection rates are at an all-time high, more than 97 percent
  • Senior Center provides more than 20,000 meals and in-home assistance to older citizens
  • Animal Services has a new facility and boasts the lowest euthanasia rate in the area
  • 911 answers an average of 236 calls a day
  • Veterans service staff helped more than 1,200 veterans and their dependents access $17 million in benefits
  • The kitchen at the county detention center provides meals for inmates, but also prepares meals for the Senior Center and for Meals on Wheels
  • Parks and rec programs – which gets 45 percent of its funding from the county – served 8,500 youth in its various programs and activities
  • Another 6,500 residents participated in Cooperative Extension activities and programs
  • Smart Start, the Boys & Girls Club, Gang Free, Inc. and the local children’s home all are supported by county funding.

Residential home construction is on the rise, and the county is getting more tourism dollars – and a record occupancy tax from hotels and motels. There’s plenty of room for more, McMillen said.

“We’re not there yet, but I think the state of Vance County is strong,” McMillen said.

To view the presentation, visit https://www.vancecounty.org/and click on the link titled State of the County under the heading Latest News.

Vance Co. Regional Farmers Market

Visit Vance County Farmers Market For Cool-Season Greens And So Much More

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No doubt, some folks already are planning the menu for their Thanksgiving meal. Whether that’s the case at your house or not, the Vance County Regional Farmers Market’s annual Handcrafted Holiday Market coming up Nov. 19 can check off many items needed to create dishes sure to delight all those around the holiday table.

Manager Pat Ayscue said farmers are harvesting one of their very best fall crops, fresh for the taking this Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There’s an abundance of collards and turnip salad, lettuce, cabbage and broccoli, as well as crisp apples, farm fresh eggs, pork and grass-fed beef and fresh baked goods.

The holiday market, set for Nov. 19, will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature the market vegetables as well as vendors’ handcrafted items and other goodies.

Ayscue gives thanks for the farmers, vendors and all the patrons who support the local farmers market.

EBT is accepted.

Visit www. https://vance.ces.ncsu.edu/vance-county-regional-farmers-market/

The farmers market is located at 210 Southpark Drive in Henderson

Sossamon Unseats Incumbent Garrison For N.C. House District 32 Seat

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He didn’t win in his home county, but political newcomer Frank Sossamon unseated incumbent Terry Garrison to win the District 32 seat in the N.C. House.

And shortly after learning of his victory Tuesday evening, Sossamon told WIZS News that his election was a grassroots effort.

“The people realized it was time for a change,” Sossamon said, adding that he looks forward to advancing the district economically, and advancing the community in a wholesome way. He also said he wants to put some “real teeth” in the law that punishes those who kill law enforcement officers. He said he would be in favor of the death penalty for those who take the lives of law enforcement officers.

The criminal element in District 32, Sossamon said, is “no longer welcome in our community. I will do whatever I have to do to make us crime free,” he added. “It’s time for us to clean up our neighborhoods.”

Final election results posted on the N.C. State Board of Elections website had Sossamon with 14,107 votes – 51.39 percent – to Garrison’s 13,342 – 48.61 percent.

Garrison said, despite the loss, he is optimistic for the future. In a phone interview with WIZS Tuesday evening, he said he was grateful for the opportunity he has had to serve the public.

The recent redistricting affected the race, he said. “When I lost Warren County, that was a big loss,” he said.

Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame has won a second term, soundly defeating challenger Patrick Bailey in Tuesday’s midterm elections, leading the way for other incumbents in numerous local races. With 100 percent of precincts reporting, Brame, a Democrat, got 8,422 votes, compared to 4,558 votes for Bailey, a Republican.

Democrat Randy Oxendine is the winner over challenger Charlie Baskerville for Vance County Board of Education District 2, receiving 63 percent of the vote. Baskerville got 37 percent of voters.

Candidates for Vance County Board of Commissioners ran unopposed – Sean Alston in District 3, Dan Brummitt in District 4 and Tommy Hester in District 7 – and were re-elected in Tuesday’s election.

In a phone interview Tuesday evening, Brame said he was relieved upon hearing the results that give him a second term as sheriff.  “I can breathe,” Brame said. He underscored the need for collaboration and for the citizens of Vance County “to take ownership of your community.”

Oxendine won a seat on the Vance County Board of Education and he told WIZS News Tuesday that he feels he is “stepping in” to a role previously held by his wife. “I almost feel like I’ve already been on the board,” Oxendine said, reflecting on his win over challenger Charlie Baskerville. Oxendine’s wife previously held the seat, but when she announced that she would not seek another term, her husband threw his hat into the ring.

In some other results that affect Vance County and surrounding counties:

  • Democrat Don Davis defeated Republican Sandy Smith in the U.S. House District 1 race, which opened up when G.K. Butterfield announced he would not seek another term.
  • Although Democrat Cheri Beasley won in Vance County by more than 2,000 votes, she lost her bid for U.S. Senate to Republican Ted Budd.
  • In the race for N.C. Senate District 11, Republican Lisa Barnes defeated Democrat Mark Speed (46 percent).
  • In the race for Granville County Sheriff, Democrat Robert Fountain Jr. earned 38.55 percent of the vote, followed by Chris Smoot (unaffiliated) with 32.9 percent and Republican Vance Johnson with 28.55 percent of the vote.
  • Political newcomer and Democrat Mary Wills Bode defeated E.C. Sykes for the newly drawn N.C. Senate District 18, which includes all of Granville County and a small portion of Wake County. Although Sykes received more votes in Granville County, Bode’s numbers from the southernmost precincts in Wake County swung the race in her favor. Final figures, according to the state board of elections, had Bode with 41,979 votes and Sykes with 37,925.

G.R.A.C.E. Ministries Site Of Nov. 12 Gift Box Giveaway

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There will be a gift box giveaway this Saturday, Nov. 12 at G.R.A.C.E. Ministries on Burr St., Henderson. All are welcome to participate in coming out to this event is welcome. Organizers said vehicles should enter at 215 Crozier St.

Each box contains various household items valued at more than $100 each and will be available for pickup between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., according to Bobby West with G.R.A.C.E Ministries. The goal is to distribute 500 boxes.

G.R.A.C.E. Ministries is partnering with Rushing Water Outreach to host the community-wide event, “working together to show God’s love.”

Contact West at 252.432.7124 for more information.

 

 

TownTalk: ‘Clearview Today’ Show Airs On WIZS M-F At 10 A.M.

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One of the team members at Clearview Church describes pastor Dr. Abidan Shah as a scholar with a pastor’s heart. That’s a winning combination, to be sure. And the Henderson church has launched a new show called Clearview Today to share his insights and message to others.

John Galantis and Ryan Hill are two members of the Clearview team who help produce the programs that emanate from Clearview, and they spoke with John C. Rose on Thursday’s TownTalk to shed a little light on the origins of the new show, which can be found Monday through Friday at 10 a.m. right here on WIZS.

Both said they were excited about the new platform, which also gives listeners a chance to interact with Shah each week.

There’s a dedicated phone line – 252.582.5028 – for listeners to make comments or to ask questions. The Friday show answers those questions from listeners, Hill said. “We (will) read and respond as best we can,” he added.

One of the biggest things that drives the Gospel, Galantis said, is God’s call to his people to take the Gospel into the world. “It’s very important that the conversation doesn’t die,” he said.

Hill said the show is another way to take the Gospel into the world. “We build a partnership with the people who are listening,” he said.

Shah and the half dozen or so team members at the church regularly sit down over lunch to discuss important topics, but the team routinely left with valuable life lessons. The podcasts arose from such meetings, and then, Galantis explained, they took it a step further:

What would happen if, instead of five or six people benefitting from Shah’s talks, “it were radically elevated to hundreds of people?”

From there the group created a daily show, related to the Bible, but also relevant to current situations and today’s issues.

The Clearview Today show’s signature line is “engages the mind and heart for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

There are deep truths to be found in the Bible, and Galantis said Shah’s insights are powerful.

“But you don’t need a PhD. to grasp some of these truths,” he said. Shah translates those deep truths that a layperson can understand, all the while enjoying the learning that is taking place.

Both men attribute having a strong collaborative team that engages and strategizes to achieve the common goal of bringing the Word to others.

“We trace God’s hand through all of that,” Hill said.

Galantis agreed. “Sometimes it’s difficult to see God’s hand when it’s happening,” he said. Most of life is looking back and coming to God. When he looks back at where the church was one year, five years, 10 years ago – “that’s how I’ve seen how God has worked.”

Visit www.clearviewtodayshow.com

Community Partners of Hope

Men’s Shelter Open; Donations Needed

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The local men’s shelter opened a month ago – one month earlier than last year. That puts Delthine Watson and others who work with Community Partners of Hope closer to their goal of being able to provide emergency housing year-round instead of just during the winter months.

In a recent update, Watson, who is CPOH’s community network specialist, reported that that the shelter has served 14 different men. “One of our guests has been recommended to move to Hope House and his application is being processed now,” Watson said.

But the shelter still needs support from the community, and Watson said there are plenty of ways to help – from signing up to provide a meal to dropping off cases of bottled water and other snacks and even volunteering to staff the shelter when it’s occupied.
“We’ve had amazing responses for meals, but we do need several meals this month,” Watson said. Use THIS LINK  to sign up to provide a meal. The greatest needs are this weekend – Nov. 12 and 13, Monday, Nov. 21 and Friday, Nov. 25.

Volunteers who can spend the night should sign up two weeks in advance, she noted. Volunteers are needed for Monday and Thursday nights; this allows paid staff to be scheduled if there’s not enough coverage.

Volunteering overnight provides an opportunity to see the shelter in action and helpsgreatly with expenses, Watson said. Consider volunteering individually or forming a two-person team, she said.

“We are taking extreme cautions to prevent the spread of COVID, but we understand that some are still hesitant to volunteer.   Masks are required at all times, hand-washing and sanitizer are emphasized, and of course we maintain safe distance as well,” Watson said.

Details for shelter volunteers are in the signup (CLICK HERE). Watson said she appreciates the coverage that two volunteers from First United Methodist provide for one Thursday night each month and challenges other church groups to consider doing the same for a different night.

Of course, monetary donations always are welcomed, but other things they need to create “go bags” for the clients included bottled water, tea, soft drinks and underwear in all sizes but most especially L, XL, 2X and 3X.

Watson said a complete list of needs is available at www.cp-hope.org.

Please do NOT take donations to the shelter. The shelter is closed during the day and staff is busy during the evening hours helping the men who are there for the night.

Instead, call 252.432.9494 to arrange delivery.

Watson currently is working on grant applications, coordinating with other agencies for partnerships and speaking with churches and civic groups. Call or email her to schedule a talk with a community group at 919.339.1462 or  specialist.cpoh@gmail.com.