NC Community College Educators Attend Regional Seminar at VGCC

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College recently hosted a regional seminar for educators from a number of North Carolina community colleges on the subject of “active learning.” The event was presented through a partnership with the National Institute for Staff & Organizational Development (NISOD) at The University of Texas at Austin and the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE).

Earlier this year, VGCC was one of just 10 colleges across the country that were selected to host one of these credit-bearing regional seminars, which support faculty use of evidence-based teaching practices.

“It was great to see talented faculty members expanding their knowledge to enhance teaching, learning and the student experience,” remarked VGCC Vice President of Learning, Student Engagement & Success Dr. Levy Brown.

Laurie Pendleton, the Executive Director of Assessment at ACUE, served as the presenter for the training. “I really enjoyed helping faculty at Vance-Granville Community College and colleges throughout the area engage in learning to fine-tune their use of active learning strategies,” said Pendleton, a veteran teacher and professional development specialist.

Active learning is generally defined as any instructional method that engages students in the learning process, with activities that emphasize interaction, participation and critical thinking.

“It is always exciting to work with faculty who are so invested in the success of their students, and I look forward to hearing how the participants bring these research-based practices back to their students,” Pendleton added. “Vance-Granville Community College was an exceptional host, and both NISOD and ACUE appreciate their careful planning, participation and support throughout the day.”

Petra Kohlmann, Partnership Director for ACUE, also participated in the seminar at VGCC. “It was a pleasure to be with faculty at Vance-Granville Community College, as well as ACUE and NISOD colleagues, as we learned together about ways to engage students in large classes through active learning techniques,” Kohlmann said. “Being part of a ‘classroom of instructors’ is always an invigorating experience, and I look forward to more opportunities to share ACUE’s research-backed teaching practices with Vance-Granville.”

Edward J. Leach, the Executive Director of NISOD, thanked VGCC faculty and staff for their help co-hosting the event. “VGCC has raised the bar when it comes to providing an excellent learning experience for Seminar participants!” Leach said.

Vance County High School

Vance Co. HS Well-Represented in 3A’s ‘Big-Eight’ Conference Standings

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-Information courtesy the NCHSAA

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association has released the ‘Big-Eight’ All-Conference standings for 2019, and Vance County High School shines with two ‘player of the year’ honorees.

In football, Viper quarterback Samein Burwell was named ‘Offensive Player of the Year,’ while Emani Foster was awarded the coveted ‘Player of the Year’ title in volleyball.

The ‘Big-Eight’ 3A Conference includes VCHS, Southern Durham High School, Northwood High School, Northern Durham High School, Orange High School, East Chapel Hill High School, Cedar Ridge High School and Chapel Hill High School.

The list of VCHS student-athletes that made all-conference and honorable mention status in football, volleyball and soccer includes:

2019 ‘BIG-EIGHT’ 3A FOOTBALL 

Samein Burwell – ‘Offensive Player of the Year’

ALL-CONFERENCE:

Samein Burwell, Noah Terry, Phadol Jordan, TaQuan Lyons, Davonte Evans, Daunta Wimbush, Kemarreus Jones and William Hawkins IV

HONORABLE MENTION:

Demarius Harris, Jy’Kavious Judkins and Malik Williams

_______________________________________________________________________________

2019 ‘BIG-EIGHT’ 3A VOLLEYBALL

Emani Foster – ‘Player of the Year’

ALL-CONFERENCE:

Emani Foster

HONORABLE MENTION:

Kyra Mitchell and Kynnedy Keel

SPORTSMANSHIP:

Vance County High School

_______________________________________________________________________________

2019 ‘BIG-EIGHT’ 3A MEN’S SOCCER

ALL-CONFERENCE:

Jesus Zuniga

HONORABLE MENTION:

Diego Vasquez and Miguel Garcia

NC Coop Extension

Cooperative Extension with Wayne Rowland 12/03/19

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News 12/03/19

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Town Talk 12/02/19: Free Adoptions at Vance Co. Animal Shelter!

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Frankie Nobles, Chief of Vance County Animal Services, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Monday at 11 a.m.

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Nobles was happy to announce that adoption fees at the Vance County Animal Shelter have been covered for harder-to-adopt, large-breed adult dogs and cats now through December 23, 2019.

“We are offering free adoption for the community for adult dogs and cats. This does not include puppies, kittens and smaller breeds because they are easier for us to adopt,” Nobles said.

Those interested in adoption will still need to complete the application process which includes a vet check and landlord approval (if applicable).

“The application process will still need to be completed to ensure the animal is going to a good home,” explained Nobles. “Once the application process is completed and approved, pets that are already spayed or neutered will be able to go home that day. If they are not, an appointment will be made with a vet and the new owner can pick their pet up after the appointment.”

On any given day, Nobles approximates 40 dogs and 10-15 cats are available for adoption and are in need of a good, loving home.

The adoption fee is typically $150 for dogs and $100 for cats. Fee includes the spay or neuter procedure (if not already completed), microchipping and other tests and treatments.

According to Nobles, there has already been increased interest since the recent free adoption announcement; however, he cautions those who are looking for a new pet to fully consider the implications prior to making such a large commitment.

“Make sure you are ready for cleaning up after them and feeding them. You need to make sure you are financially ready to provide for them. If you aren’t ready for that, you aren’t ready for a life change. It is a life-changing experience when you bring an animal home,” stated Nobles.

The Vance County Animal Shelter is located at 1243 Brodie Road in Henderson. Hours of operation are Mondays from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The shelter is closed on Fridays and Sundays.

Please visit www.vancecountyanimalshelter.com or the shelter’s Facebook page for more information.

To hear the interview with Nobles in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk. Nobles’ segment begins at the 11:30 mark. 

Sheriff Curtis Brame

Vance Co. Sheriff’s Office Offers Tips for a Safe Holiday

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-Press Release, Vance County Sheriff’s Office

“With the holiday season upon us and winter’s low temperatures, the chances of a fire occurring in your home dramatically increase,” said Sheriff Brame of Vance County. “Decorations, candles and Christmas trees are the leading cause of house fires during the holidays.” 

The Sheriff reminds all Vance County residents to follow these fire prevention safety tips: 

Christmas Trees 

  • Select a fresh Christmas tree that has been kept in water at all times. The needles on a fresh tree should be green and hard to pull from branches. When the trunk of a tree is bounced on the ground, a shower of falling needles shows that the tree is too dry and is a fire hazard.
  • Leave the tree outside until ready to decorate.
  • The tree stand should hold at least one gallon of water. A 6′ tree will use one gallon of water every two days. The water level should be checked daily.
  • Secure the tree with wire to keep it from tipping and be sure the tree is placed at least three feet from floor heaters, fireplaces, or other heat sources.
  • Dispose of the tree properly.
  • Never burn a real tree, wreaths, or wrapping paper in a fireplace.

Decorations: 

  • Inspect lights before using them to ensure they don’t have frayed wires, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, or excessive wear.
  • Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
  • Turn off Christmas lights when you sleep, or if you will be away from home for an extended time.
  • Never use candles in place of light strands, even on artificial trees.
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm supports to protect from wind damage.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.
  • All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant.
  • Never place trimmings near open flames or electrical connections.
  • Remove all wrapping paper from trees and fireplace areas immediately after presents are opened.
  • Keep matches, lighters and candles out of reach of children.
  • Avoid smoking near flammable decorations.

“The holiday season is a joyful time in Vance County, filled with generosity, warmth, family and tradition,” Sheriff Brame concluded, “But let’s make it a safe time as well.”

H-V Chamber to Host Annual Membership Appreciation Christmas Social

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-Information courtesy the H-V Chamber of Commerce

The Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Membership Appreciation Christmas Social is scheduled for Thursday evening, December 5, 2019, at the Henderson Country Club from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres with a cash bar. There is no charge to attend, thanks to the generous sponsorships of local CPA Firms Holden Moss Knott Clark & Copley, Phillips Dorsey Thomas Waters & Brafford, William L Stark & Co, William D Hoyle, Danny Wright and Robert Herford.

Please RSVP to the Chamber office at (252) 438-8414 or email michele@hendersonvance.org by the end of the day on Tuesday, December 3.

Please note, you are welcome to bring a guest/spouse and also share this invitation with your company management representatives.

The Chamber’s staff and board of directors look forward to meeting you and enjoying a fun night of networking and fellowship.

Granville County Public Schools

Four GCPS Principals Receive School Performance Bonuses

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-Press Release, Granville County Public Schools

The following Granville County Public Schools principals have been recognized and awarded monetary bonuses by the State of North Carolina for their school’s outstanding academic performance in the 2018-2019 school year:

  • Jackie Harris – Granville Early College EXCEEDED GROWTH TOP 10% ($10,000)
  • Janita Allen – Granville Central High School EXCEEDED GROWTH TOP 10% ($10,000)
  • Sheila Atkins – Wilton Elementary School EXCEEDED GROWTH TOP 20% ($2,500)
  • Lisa Tusa – South Granville High School MET GROWTH TOP 50% ($1,000)

In the 2017-18 budget year, the General Assembly of North Carolina created a salary bonus structure for principals and select teachers across the state whose students academic growth performance met certain criteria, including the school’s previous academic performance and the individual employee’s school assignment.

Student growth is measured by the state’s adopted analysis software, EVAAS, which is a product of SAS Analytics based in the Research Triangle.

Through EVAAS, student growth is determined by the amount of academic progress that students make over the course of a grade or class. Students enter grades and courses at different places; some have struggled while some have excelled.

Regardless of how they enter a grade or course, students can make progress over the course of the school year. In this way, students and schools can be measured using complex statistical analysis of state test scores, which provide measurements and designations of growth.

Currently, the state uses the growth score of a school as 20% of the letter grade for that school, and proficiency scores for the remaining 80%.

The State of NC has just recently released information on which principals will be awarded bonuses.

Maria Parham Health

Maria Parham to Hold Second Annual Youth Art Show & Silent Auction

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-Information courtesy Jane Haithcock, Regulatory Compliance & Privacy Officer, Maria Parham Health

Maria Parham Health’s Second Annual Youth Art Show & Silent Auction will be held Thursday, December 5, 2019, from 2 until 8 p.m. The show will be held in Maria Parham’s Main Lobby.

The community is urged to attend and support local youth and the United Way.

All money raised with be donated to the United Way of Vance County.

City of Henderson Logo

Henderson City Council’s Land Planning Committee to Meet Dec. 3

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-Information courtesy Esther J. McCrackin, City Clerk, City of Henderson, NC

The Henderson City Council’s Land Planning Committee will meet on Tuesday, December 3, 2019. This meeting will take place at 2 p.m. in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 134 Rose Avenue in Henderson.

The purpose of this meeting is to discuss group homes, the tree in Veteran’s Park, a School of Government proposal and guidance for the sale of 725 Roberson Street.

The public is welcome to observe.