-Press Release and photos, Granville County Government
Granville County’s Spring Shred and Recycle Event, held May 16, 2020, resulted in the collection and proper disposal of truckloads of scrap metal, electronics/televisions, shredded paper, hardback books, household batteries, outdated medications and other items.
Recycle and Sustainability Coordinator Teresa Baker reports the following totals:
* Shred Ace – 5,440 pounds of paper (2.72 tons) * Metech Recycling – 4,725 pounds of electronics and TV’s * RMR Recycling – 800 lbs of hardback books * Dart Container – 1/2 enclosed trailer of polystyrene * Granville County Sheriff’s Office – 185 pounds of medication and sharps * Interstate Batteries – four (4) five-gallon buckets of various household batteries, four (4) lead-acid batteries, and a pallet of other batteries * Granville County Humane Society – 1/2 truckbed full of various items * GFL = 985 pounds of scrap metal and broken appliances
“I was very pleased with the turnout,” said Baker. “Thanks to all who participated, and to our volunteers who came out to make the day a success.”
Recycling events are held twice a year in Granville County and are scheduled in the spring and fall at the Expo and Convention Center. Details about the fall event will be announced soon.
For additional information or to learn more about local recycling efforts, please contact Baker at 919-725-1417 or at bakertd@gcs.k12.nc.us.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Granville-Spring-Shred-2020.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-06-05 11:13:572020-06-05 11:13:57Granville Spring Shred & Recycle Event Results Announced
Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Department’s Kendrick Vann, director, and Darius Pitt, program director, appeared on the WIZS Coach’s Corner Thursday.
Stating summer and fall sports are in a holding pattern due to COVID-19 concerns, Pitt explained the Rec. Department is following the directives of the National and North Carolina Recreation and Park Associations, as well as the CDC.
“We are watching right now, and everything is on hold,” Pitt said. “We want the kids to be involved in sports, but we are also concerned about their safety and the safety of their parents and others that come to the games.”
Pitt said the department is hopeful that activities will return for the fall, even if that takes on a different format from the norm. “Things change daily, and we are hopeful for the fall. Right now, we are looking at offering camp training programs rather than organized sports leagues. We are looking at ways to space kids out [physically] so they can stay active by doing individual workouts and conditioning.”
Vann said he is working with other area recreation departments and athletic directors to get new ideas for keeping youth and families engaged while still protecting against the spread of COVID-19.
“This is new to everyone and things change daily,” said Vann. “We don’t have a hard deadline, but we’re working with other areas so we can be consistent with our message and with our offered sports.”
To hear more from Vann and Pitt, please listen to the Coach’s Corner audio by clicking the play button above.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/coachscornerfeaturedimage.jpg265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2020-06-05 10:09:202020-06-05 15:18:18Coach’s Corner 06/04/20: H-V Rec. & Parks ‘Uncertain But Hopeful’ for Fall Sports
The Jefferson County Development Authority announces that Dennis Jarvis II will be its new executive director, effective July 6, 2020. Jarvis will lead the organization as it develops a new strategic plan for its future direction and focus on economic development efforts in Jefferson County.
The Jefferson County Commission approved the employment of Jarvis today upon the recommendation of the Jefferson County Development Authority (JCDA) Board of Directors. Working with a national firm, JCDA board members began the search for a new executive director six months ago. After seeking input from community stakeholders regarding the type of candidate to pursue, Jarvis was selected following an extensive screening and interview process.
The Jefferson County Development Authority announces that Dennis Jarvis II, currently the director of the Henderson-Vance Economic Development Commission in North Carolina, will be its new executive director, effective July 6, 2020. (Photo courtesy JCDA)
Jarvis has 20 years of community and economic development experience in West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina. He started his career as the deputy director of the Logan County Development Authority in West Virginia and is currently the director of the Henderson-Vance Economic Development Commission in North Carolina.
His background with business development, job creation, small business and entrepreneurial assistance programs as well as marketing and grant writing will be instrumental to the JCDA, said Neil McLaughlin, president of the JCDA. “We were impressed with Dennis’s enthusiasm for this area, his motivation and creativity for the role in general, and his stalwart Mountaineer spirit.”
“We look forward to Dennis joining the county,” said Jefferson County Commission President Jane Tabb. “This position is key to increasing and diversifying the tax base for Jefferson County and strengthening the economic well-being of our county, our businesses, and our residents.”
Since being reconstituted a year ago, McLaughlin noted the JCDA Board has been working to move forward, increase transparency, and grow relationships with the community, business leaders, and regional and state officials. In January, the JCDA hired a consultant to facilitate the development of a new strategic plan to guide JCDA leaders in establishing the direction of the organization.
“We’re looking forward to having Dennis on board as we begin this new chapter of the JCDA,” McLaughlin said. “His engaging personality, pro-active attitude, and relationship-building skills will be assets as the JCDA incorporates community involvement into the strategic planning process in the next few months.”
Jarvis welcomes the opportunity to come back to West Virginia. “I am honored to return home to West Virginia and the eastern gateway to our great state,” he said. “The choice to relocate to Jefferson County was easy. This is a progressive, dynamic community with a strategic location and vibrant workforce.”
The JCDA board is focused, Jarvis noted. “I am pleased to be able to work with the JCDA board. They are an energetic, synergistic group,” he said. “Developing a new strategic plan for the organization with community input is exciting for the future of Jefferson County.”
Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, Jarvis received his bachelor’s degree from Bluefield State College and completed his master’s degree at Marshall University. He is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute at Oklahoma University, the Community Development Institute of West Virginia University, and is a Certified Business Retention Specialist with Business Retention International.
Jarvis and his wife, Lori Daniels Jarvis, are looking forward to returning to West Virginia with their cat, Virginia, and puppy, Buzzie. They enjoy traveling and riding their Indian Chieftain motorcycle. He is also a big fan of college football and likes podcasting.
During the next few months, the JCDA will be planning several events where community officials, business leaders, and local residents will have an opportunity to meet and get to know Jarvis.
The JCDA consists of a 15-member board of directors, including representatives from the county commission and each of the five municipalities within the county as well as industry, business, labor, education, and citizens representatives. The JCDA aims to promote, develop, and advance the economic development of Jefferson County, West Virginia.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Dennis-Jarvis.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-06-05 08:53:462020-06-05 08:53:46Dennis Jarvis, H-V Economic Development Director, Accepts Position in Jefferson Co., WV
JCPenney has announced that 154 stores, including the Henderson Square location at 380 N. Cooper Dr. in Henderson, NC, will close permanently.
Other North Carolina JCPenney store closings include the locations at Biggs Park Shopping Center in Lumberton, Twin Rivers Mall in New Bern, North Hills Shopping Center in Raleigh and the Richmond Plaza in Rockingham.
Following a comprehensive review of our retail footprint, JCPenney made the difficult decision to close 154 stores. We will continue to operate the majority of our stores and our flagship store, jcp.com, to ensure our valued customers continue to have access to the products and brands they need and want.
Please click here for the full list of closing locations by state.
Tracy Twisdale, a Vance County resident assisting a local non-profit with the 2020 U.S. Census, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Wednesday at 11 a.m.
Taken every decade since 1790, the census counts every person living in the United States and five U.S. territories.
In March, homes across the country began receiving mailed invitations to complete the 2020 Census. Responses tell the U.S. Census Bureau how many people lived in a particular household as of April 1, 2020.
“The Census is done every ten years to give an accurate account of the people living in the United States,” explained Twisdale. “That count will determine how billions in federal funding is allocated for fire departments, hospitals, schools, roads and more. It also determines how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and is used to draw state and congressional legislative districts. So, you’re basically shaping the future of the area around you as it relates to federal funding when you take a few minutes to complete the census.”
The census, which takes approximately five minutes to complete, includes questions on the age, race and gender of those living in the household as of April 1. According to Twisdale, no extra forms, paperwork or documentation is needed, and everyone in the household should be counted, including roommates, newborns, young children, and/or someone renting a space in the home.
The census can be completed by returning the original invitation via mail, by calling (844) 330-2020 or online at www.my2020census.gov.
With Vance County being labeled a “hard-to-count” community, which means, compared to other counties, Vance County residents are historically less likely to respond, Twisdale reminded Town Talk listeners that completing the census is required by law.
“According to the U.S. Code, if you are over 18 and you refuse to answer all or part of the census, you can be fined up to $100,” stated Twisdale. “If you give false information, your subject to a fine of up to $500. If you offer suggestions or information with the intent to throw off the count, you can be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 and/or one year in prison.”
The 2020 U.S. Census website states that the U.S. Census Bureau is bound by law to protect census answers and keep them strictly confidential. The law ensures that private information is never published and that answers cannot be used against a respondent by any government agency or court.
The deadline for census completion has been extended to an as-yet determined date due to COVID-19 restrictions. In the meantime, Twisdale said census takers will soon be going door-to-door to speak to those households who have not yet responded.
To hear the interview with Twisdale in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Census-2020.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2020-06-04 16:42:502020-06-04 17:14:00Town Talk: 2020 U.S. Census Response a Legal Requirement
Kinzie Luce, Mobile Free Pharmacy events and volunteer manager with NC MedAssist, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m.
NC MedAssist is holding a Mobile Free Pharmacy Event in Granville County on Friday, June 19, 2020. The event, which is in collaboration with Triangle North Healthcare Foundation, is open to any individual or family needing over-the-counter medications.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Granville County Expo & Convention Center (4185 US-15 South, Oxford, NC 27565). Participants must be at least 18 years old to receive the medicine. No identification is required.
In order to comply with local recommended guidelines, all participants will remain in their vehicles while volunteers retrieve their medicine. For those individuals unable to register online, volunteers will be available to complete registration forms for each person, limiting touch points.
Unlike previous Mobile Free Pharmacy events, this one will be held as a drive-thru service only. Participants are highly encouraged to order their over-the-counter medicine online at https://bit.ly/Granville. “We have completely revamped our Giveaway Day in order to keep our participants, volunteers, and staff as safe as possible,” said Misty Moore, Senior Development Director at NC MedAssist. “Over 100 participants have ordered their medicine in advance which will speed up the process significantly. Please register online if you are able to do so.”
“Triangle North Healthcare Foundation is pleased to partner with NC MedAssist on the Mobile Free Pharmacy event,” said Foundation Director Val Short. “The event is expected to have a huge impact on the community, especially during such difficult times. Triangle North Healthcare Foundation values the work of NC MedAssist in our communities on behalf of those who are vulnerable and don’t have access to healthcare. We hope to educate participants on the healthcare resources available in Granville and surrounding counties.”
NC MedAssist is a statewide non-profit pharmacy, founded in 1997. The organization provides free prescription medication to low-income, uninsured North Carolinians. NC MedAssist offers three programs that address the needs of children and adults: the Free Pharmacy Program, the Mobile Free Pharmacy Program, and the Transitional Job Program. Learn more about NC MedAssist right now at www.medassist.org.
To hear the interview with Luce in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/NC-MedAssist-Logo.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2020-06-04 16:41:222020-06-04 16:41:22Town Talk 06/04/20: NC MedAssist Holding Mobile Free Pharmacy Event in Oxford
Melissa Elliott, the founder of Gang Free, Inc. and Henderson City Council member, reached out to WIZS this afternoon to help spread the word of Gang Free Inc.’s free food delivery to those affected by COVID-19.
Stating she was currently “a bit overwhelmed” by the response of those in need, Elliott would appreciate any volunteer help she can get in delivering food boxes on behalf of the Gang Free organization.
This would also be a great opportunity for youth who are now out of school for the summer to get involved in helping others in their community.
According to Elliott, volunteers would leave food boxes in the resident’s vehicle or on the porch and would not go into the home.
“I think it is notable that the people are reaching out for assistance so that they don’t infect others in the community,” Elliott said.
For more information or to volunteer, please call Elliott at (252) 425-5220.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Gang-Free-Inc.-Logo.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2020-06-04 12:53:122020-06-04 12:53:12Gang Free, Inc. in Need of Volunteers to Deliver Food Boxes ASAP
100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm
WIZS, Henderson – Your Community Voice
Gang Free is delivering boxes of food to people
Filing for Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor begins Monday, June 8
Advance Academy announces graduation details
Vance Granville Community College announce enrollment gains
-Press Release, Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations
With June 1 came the official beginning of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts until November 30.
Already, we have had an active season with three (3) named storms, and with the forecast projections for this year, we could definitely be in for a busy season.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an above-normal season in terms of the number of storms.
The Atlantic Basin Seasonal Hurricane Forecast for 2020
Number of Named Storms: 13-19
Number of Hurricanes: 6-10
Number of Major Hurricanes (Category 3 or higher): 3-6
The Vance County Office of Emergency Operations wants to make sure that you and your family are prepared for whatever this season brings our way. The time to prepare is now, well out in front of peak hurricane season. Keep in
mind that communities and individuals are expected to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours (3 days) following the impact of a hurricane.
“If the impact is severe enough, it may potentially take outside help three (3) days to get here,” Short said. “By taking the time to gather up a few basic necessities now, you will enable your family to weather the storm and the aftermath until help can arrive.”
For more information about how you and your family can prepare for severe weather, visit the National Weather Service website: http://www.weather.gov/rah or visit our state site for emergency information including severe weather preparedness: https://readync.org/EN/Index.html
The best time to assemble a three-day emergency supplies kit is well before you will ever need it. Most people already have these items around the house, and it is a matter of assembling them now before an evacuation or State of Emergency order is issued.
Start with an easy to carry, watertight container – a large plastic trash can will do, or line a sturdy cardboard box with a couple of trash bags. Next, gather up the following items and place them in your kit:
Essentials
Water – 1 gallon per person per day (a week’s supply of water is preferable)
Water purification kit or bleach
First aid kit and first aid book
Pre-cooked, non-perishable foods, such as canned meats, granola bars, instant soup & cereals, etc.
Baby supplies: formula, bottle, pacifier, soap, baby powder, clothing, blankets, baby wipes, disposable diapers, canned food and juices
Non-electric can opener
Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel
Blanket or sleeping bag per person
Portable radio or portable TV and extra batteries
Flashlight and extra batteries
Essential medications
Extra pair of eyeglasses
Extra house and car keys
Fire extinguisher – ABC-type
Food, water, leash and carrier for pets
Cash and change
Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
Please remember your pets
Sanitation Supplies
Large plastic trash bags for waste, tarps and rain ponchos
Large trash cans
Bar soap and liquid detergent
Shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes
Feminine hygiene supplies
Toilet paper
Household bleach
Rubber gloves
Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your family’s safety and comfort during and after a disaster. Store enough supplies for at least three days, preferably seven days, in one place.
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IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers are back at the Granville County Senior Center in Oxford to assist Granville County seniors age 60+ with their tax returns. This free service will be available from 5 until 8 p.m. each Thursday through July 9. Appointments are required.
Participants will need to bring a valid picture ID, Social Security cards for themselves and any dependents claimed, income information, proof of health insurance and their previous-year tax returns.
To schedule an appointment, contact the Granville County Senior Center in Oxford, located at 107 Lanier Street, at 919-693-1930.
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