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Friday Ceremony Names Satterwhite Point Bridge Over I-85 For Master Trooper Brent Montgomery
Dozens of uniformed State Highway Patrol troopers stood solemnly Friday afternoon around a crowd of easily more than 100 friends and family members gathered for the first part of a dedication ceremony to honor the late Master Trooper James Brent Montgomery.
The bridge that carries SR 1319 – Satterwhite Road – over I-85 in northern Vance County was officially named in Montgomery’s memory.
Montgomery died in March 2021 of complications from COVID-19. He was 50.
In opening remarks, Brandon Jones, division engineer for NCDOT, said Montgomery will be remembered for the integrity and compassion that he displayed in the pursuit of law and order.
“He was a loving husband, father and friend,” Jones said, and active in his community and church.
Pastor Gary Harper offered the invocation and benediction for the brief ceremony held indoors at Kerr Lake Country Club. Harper said he married Montgomery and his wife, Heather, and he dedicated their children.
He called Montgomery a “dreamer,” someone with a vision – whether it was for a good-looking vehicle or a fancy watch, both things he was fond of.
SHP Maj. William P. Moore II was one of several speakers who recalled his friend and colleague and said the sign on the bridge will serve as a public reminder of the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make every day in the line of duty.
Montgomery’s compassion wasn’t something he learned, Moore said; rather, that compassion was “simply the core of Brent’s spirit.”
That green highway sign with the words “Master Trooper Brent Montgomery Bridge “is an outward reminder of (our) gratitude for his service…we owe it to our fallen heroes to uphold his memory.”
N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon recalled how the whole community rallied around Montgomery and his family when illness struck. There was an outpouring of support to pull together fundraisers during his sickness and everybody pitched in to make them successful.
“He left us too soon…but he gave us so much,” Sossamon noted. “He was loved, respected, valued and appreciated.”
Unlike the other speakers, N.C. Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson said he had not had the pleasure of knowing Montgomery. Robinson said he recalled attending the trooper’s funeral, and felt a little awkward because this was someone that he really didn’t know.
“But I see him every day in the faces of the troopers…in other police officers across this state…in the faces of all these people in this room,” Robinson said.
When people drive across the newly named bridge, some of them will only know that a law enforcement officer who lost his life is remembered by the state.
“There are many more people…who will ride across that bridge and smile,” because they knew just who Brent Montgomery was.
“His name on that bridge is more than a plaque,” Robinson said. “It stands as a legacy.”
And speaking directly to the trooper’s family seated on the front row, he asked them to consider one thing when they pass over the Master Trooper Brent Montgomery Bridge and remember their loved one: “Don’t shed a tear, but smile.”
A steady drizzle Friday afternoon didn’t affect the procession of Highway Patrol cars, blue lights blazing, down the ramp to northbound I-85 at Parham Road to reach their destination at the Satterwhite Road bridge. Rescue vehicles and fire trucks of all shapes and sizes blocked traffic to allow the entourage to pass unhindered. A ladder truck was parked along the interstate at the Satterwhite Road bridge displaying a giant American flag as part of the dedication ceremony.
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One Man Injured In Shooting On N. Clark Street
PRESS RELEASE from Henderson Police Department
On Wednesday, March 13, around 10:28 PM, officers with the Henderson Police Department responded to 213 N. Clark Street in reference to a person who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers found a 67-year-old male suffering from a single gunshot wound to the abdomen.
The victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment and has since been released from the hospital. Members of the Henderson Police Department Criminal Investigations Division are actively investigating the incident and following up on promising leads.
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Henderson Police Department at 252.438.4141, your local law enforcement agency, Crime Stoppers at 252.492.1925, or use the P3 app on a smartphone or tablet device. Callers may remain anonymous. Crime Stoppers offers rewards for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of suspects involved in criminal acts.
VCS Announces March Student Spotlight Winners
-information courtesy of VCS Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin
Three fifth graders representing three different elementary schools have capture honors as Student Spotlight winners for March.
Brisa Nunez of Aycock Elementary, Michelle Reyes of Clarke Elementary, and Gabriella Fields of Pinkston have demonstrated exemplary qualities and contributions to their school communities. The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate outstanding students who are making a meaningful difference in their schools. These students have not only demonstrated excellence in their academics but also exhibited commendable qualities
such as kindness, dedication, and a commitment to personal growth.
Brisa Nunez, Aycock Elementary
Brisa is bursting with enthusiasm, and her passion for science ignites her journey each day. She’s captivated by the wonders of the human body, fueled by her dream of becoming a doctor in the future. One of the most interesting topics she has recently enjoyed conquering the art of multiplying fractions!
Not only is Brisa committed to academics, but she also is an active member of the Aycock Beta Club and the Safety Patrol. Assistant Principal Donald Johnson III sings her praises, highlighting her infectious friendliness and ever-present smile that brightens everyone’s day. When asked about her Aycock experience, Brisa’s eyes light up with excitement. She cherishes the endless opportunities to expand her knowledge and lend a helping hand to her peers. Beyond the school walls, Brisa finds joy in playing with her brother. Dreaming big comes naturally to Brisa. If she could possess any superpower, she would soar through the skies, exploring the globe and connecting with loved ones in Michoacán, Mexico. She is inspired by her mom’s unwavering support and kindness. Her advice to fellow students is to embrace challenges, listen attentively, and always follow the path of determination. With Brisa’s boundless spirit and determination, the sky’s not even the limit—it’s just the beginning of her extraordinary journey!
Michelle Reyes, 5th grade, Clarke Elementary
Michelle’s insatiable hunger for knowledge and an unwavering dedication to learning is what sets her apart. Her teachers marvel not only at her dedication to academics but also at her boundless kindness, which shines as a guiding light for her peers. When she is not conquering the classroom, Michelle finds solace in the world of anime and the soothing melodies of her vinyl records—a newfound passion that fills her with joy. Dreaming big comes naturally to Michelle, who has aspirations of becoming a chef. With a love for culinary delights from Mexico and Japan, she is already practicing her skills in the kitchen with delicious dishes.As an active member of the Clarke Elementary Beta Club and Robotics team, Michelle thrives in a community where her love for exploration and discovery flourishes. History classes, particularly those units delving into the World Wars, fuel her curiosity and ignite her passion for understanding the past. If given the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world, Michelle would love to explore Mexico and Japan, immersing herself in their vibrant cultures. Her message to her fellow students is to stay focused, stay productive, and embrace the journey of learning—it is the key to unlocking success!
Gabriella Fields, Pinkston Street Elementary
Gabriella is described as a nurturing student with concern for the well-being of others, including her fellow peers. With an authentic desire to make a positive impact, Gabriella’s journey towards becoming a doctor is characterized by unwavering determination and kindness, inspiring those around her. Her goal to be a doctor stems from her compassion for people and wanting to see them get better. Her motivation for coming to school is fueled by the support of her parents and her own drive to achieve her goals. She finds joy in challenges, particularly in mathematics, where she enjoys the process of learning and understanding complex concepts.
Beyond her academic achievements, Gabriella is a well- rounded student who actively contributes to various facets of school life. Her involvement in the Principal Advisory Council (PAC), Beta Club, and the prestigious Girls in Pearls demonstrates her commitment to leadership, service and excellence. She has a love for reading, drawing, and arts and crafts, drawing inspiration from her father, who serves as her role model due to his passion for art. Additionally, her participation in the choir at New Life Church reflects her passion for music and community engagement. Gabriella’s affinity for the book “The Wild River” reflects her adventurous spirit. If given the choice of any superpower, she would opt for the abilities of Miles Morales from “Spiderman Across the Spider Verse,” encompassing invisibility, electric venom capabilities, and the skill to crawl on walls. Imagining herself holding a magic wand, Gabriella wishes for peace in the world. Her sincere advice to her peers is to keep pushing ahead, tackle challenges head-on, use time wisely, focus on self-improvement, and stay dedicated to personal and academic growth.
Tickets On Sale Now For VGCC Foundation Beer, Wine Tasting Fundraiser Apr. 13
– information courtesy of VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel
The Vance-Granville Community College Foundation is hosting a wine and beer tasting event on Saturday, April 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at HighRock Farms in Granville County. Tickets are $75. Proceeds of the fundraiser will be used to help support students who find them facing unforeseen financial crises.
The theme for the event is “Be the Light in a Student’s Life,” and there will be an array of wineries represented to highlight their signature wines. Local brewery Tobacco Wood Brewing Company will be showcasing their craft beers Guests will be able to pair their beverages with an assortment of sweet and savory foods, including seafood, chicken and beef, according to a press release from VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel.
Unexpected burdens can easily derail some students. Having initiatives like a stocked food pantry, emergency assistance, transportation vouchers, and career closet, The VGCC Foundations steps in to meet students’ basic needs when the unexpected gets in the way of their academic progress.
Attendees will receive a souvenir wine glass and have the option to purchase their favorite finds. In addition, a variety of silent auction items will be on display for bidding throughout the evening. A short program showcasing students who have benefited from donor contributions will open the evening, and local students will provide the event’s entertainment.
Beth and David Hollister operate HighRock Farms, a 200-acre property located at 2317 Enon Rd., Oxford. The venue is handicap accessible.
Dress for the evening is business attire.
Purchase tickets at The VGCC Foundation office, online at www.vgcc.edu/the-vgcc-foundation-online-gifts and enter “Gala” in the Designation box. To purchase tickets using any other form of payment, please contact The VGCC Foundation by email at foundation@vgcc.edu or by calling 252.738.3264.
GVPH Director Lisa Harrison Receives State Honor As Health Director Of The Year
Granville Vance Public Health Director Lisa Macon Harrison was named Health Director of the Year at the North Carolina Association of Local Health Directors’ annual awards ceremony in Raleigh.
Harrison, who has been at the helm of GVPH for 12 years, was selected based on her commitment to public health and “lifting the work, value and voice of health departments locally, statewide and at the national level,” according to a press release.
NCALHD President Quintana Stewart presented the award to Harrison. “Lisa is a leader not only for her health department but also for several local health departments in North Carolina and across the United States as she has shared their stories and passion while advocating for needed resources to support their dedication to improving the lives of our neighbors,” Stewart stated.
In a telephone interview Wednesday with WIZS News, Harrison said the award was “a huge surprise – I wasn’t expecting it.” She did say, however, that as she sat in the audience, listening to the presenter talk about the not-yet-named recipient, she thought the list of accomplishments sounded familiar.
“I thought, ‘That sounds a lot like my resume,’” Harrison said. “And then, all of a sudden, comes in the leadership team and Michael,” her husband. “It totally surprised me – I didn’t know a thing about it until the end,” she added.
“It’s been such a fun experience,” Harrison said. “Being in public health is working with some really caring, skilled, talented, smart people who are just nice to work with. It’s just such a pleasure to get up and go to work every day – I’m very lucky.”
Harrison called her leadership team “amazing,” and said the staff of 100 works hard every day. “There’s so much work to be done in a health department and our people just do it really, really well, so we’re held up as an example in rural public health,” Harrison said.
Growing up in Cullowhee in the western part of the state and working in a largely rural area has shaped her career – and her passion – for rural North Carolina. Harrison became a leader and champion for rural communities throughout the state and nation and focusing on the importance of public health in all communities.
During her 12 years at GVPH director, Harrison has created, led and supported a multitude of public health service enhancements and expansions. The health department’s budget has increased by 129 percent under her leadership, a testament to her advocacy efforts with local and state elected officials as well as her gift of successful grant writing.
Since 2015, GVPH has secured more than $6 million in grant funding to combat mental health and substance use disorder challenges in the two counties it serves. GVPH was the first health department in North Carolina to offer Medication Assisted Treatment, building on the success of the primary care services model to provide regular visits with a healthcare provider and linking individuals to behavioral healthcare and support resources. As a result, the National Association of Counties selected GVPH for a Peer Exchange site visit in April 2023, bringing leaders from across the U.S. to the rural communities in Vance and Granville counties.
Since 2016, GVPH has offered comprehensive primary care services to ensure whole-person care, including preventive services for obesity, diabetes, hypertension and medical nutrition therapy.
In addition, GVPH has also implemented, supported, or led partnerships aimed at reducing the number of people with mental illness in jails along with 30 agencies representing law enforcement, jail administration, public health agencies, EMS, social work agencies, behavioral health agencies, and community through the Stepping Up program. Harrison brought together organizations and community members to help kids stay healthy through the Working on Wellness Coalition, which implements and evaluates the impact of evidence-based interventions focused on nutrition, physical activity and prevention of chronic disease to improve child health and well-being in Granville and Vance counties.
Harrison also makes sure that the health department provides “safety net” care for its clients. Since 2016, GVPH has offered comprehensive primary care services to ensure whole-person care, including preventive services for obesity, diabetes, hypertension and medical nutrition therapy.
But her influence extends beyond county lines as she has proven herself to be an unwavering champion for local public health in North Carolina and across the nation. Harrison has often represented local health departments in media campaigns, on commissions and to statewide leaders. She served as a Task Force Chair for the N.C. Institute of Medicine’s Future of Local Public Health Task Force and was inducted as a member of the N.C. Institute of Medicine.
In October 2021, as the COVID pandemic continued to affect so many people’s lives and livelihoods, Harrison, as president of the National Association of County and City Health Officials, presented testimony to the Subcommittee on Health of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce highlighting the national public health workforce crisis and explaining that no other healthcare providers have the breadth of responsibility for communicable disease control as public health workers.
As a result of being a part of this national discussion, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra spent a day visiting Granville and Vance counties in November 2023 and participated in a GVPH-led roundtable discussion highlighting efforts to expand healthcare access and lower healthcare costs in rural areas.
GVPH Medical Director Dr. Shauna Guthrie, called Harrison a champion and strong voice for local public health in the state and nationally.
“Whether in her community, across the 100 counties of North Carolina, or the almost 3,500 local health departments across the nation, Lisa is a public health warrior,” Guthrie said. “She is an innovative leader who has highlighted Granville and Vance counties for community efforts to improve their health, and who finds partnerships across various healthcare groups to further the practice of public health.”
By partnering with agencies and organizations throughout the counties it serves, GVPH can effect positive change. Whether it’s with schools, hospitals or the juvenile justice system, these partnership touch people’s lives. “That’s what success means to me in public health,” Harrison said.
Bill Martin – Troop C District 4 – Order of the Long Leaf Pine
William “Bill” Nission Martin retired as a Master Trooper with the State Highway Patrol. His 30 years with the law enforcement agency – every one spent with Troop C District 4 – was a remarkable achievement.
But N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon put some icing on the proverbial cake Sunday, Mar. 10 and presented Martin with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor the state gives.
Sossamon presented Martin with the award at Tungsten Baptist Church with family, friends, retired co-workers, current Highway Patrol employees, members of the community and members of the church looking on.
Throughout his career, Martin garnered numerous accolades and recognitions for his exceptional service to the community. As a Trooper Training Officer, he played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of law enforcement professionals, imparting his wisdom and expertise to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens he swore to protect.
This dedication was underscored by the acquisition of several certificates, each a testament to his commitment to excellence. He earned an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from Vance Granville Community College, laying the educational foundation for a distinguished career. He was also certified as a VASCAR Operator, Radar Operator, and Breathalyzer Operator, all of which showcased his proficiency in the latest law enforcement technologies and techniques.
Beyond his career in law enforcement, Martin is a proud Mason, exemplifying his commitment to principles of fellowship, charity, and personal growth. He has been a member at Tungsten Baptist Church since 1973, which is a testament to his strong faith and enduring dedication to his community.
Following his retirement from the SHP, Martin continued his service as a Vance County deputy sheriff for eight years. During this tenure, he served as both security for the court and court Bailiff, ensuring the smooth administration of justice in the county.
Within his cherished Tungsten Baptist Church, Martin has held various vital roles, including deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Superintendent of Sunday School. He is known to lend his technical skills by operating the soundboard during church services and offering comfort through prayer when needed.
Bill Martin’s life is a remarkable journey of dedication, faith and service. His enduring commitment to his community, both in his career and within the church, has left an indelible mark that continues to inspire and uplift those around him. Martin’s legacy is one of selflessness, and his impact on Troop C District 4 and Tungsten Baptist Church will be remembered for generations to come.
Vance Sheriff Curtis Brame: Two Arrested On Drugs, Weapons Charges
– Information from Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame
On Friday, Mar. 8, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant for illegal drugs at a residence located at 87 Pueblo Lane near the Vance and Franklin county line. Entry into the home was gained by tactical units from both counties. No injuries were reported.
Two men were arrested and charged with various drug offenses:
Demarius Vass was charged with:
Possession of a Weapon of Mass Destruction (A Glock pistol converted to fully automatic)
Felony Maintaining a Dwelling
Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Vass was placed under a $20,000 bond.
A second person, Jatavious Boyd, was charged with:
Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Heroin (2 Counts)
Felony Maintaining a Dwelling
Possession of Marijuana
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 Counts)
Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
No bond was issued for Boyd because at the time of his arrest, he was out on bond for a previous charge.
Law enforcement officers recovered 100 Dosage Units of Heroin as well as approximately 2 grams of a substance suspected to be Cocaine Hydrochloride. Four firearms and an undisclosed amount of US Currency was also seized.
Multi-Agency investigations into illegal drug trafficking will continue throughout both Vance and Franklin counties, to include the assistance of the NCSBI and other local jurisdictions.
Crawford Knott Named 2023 John Penn Citizen Of The Year At Granville Chamber Banquet
The Granville County Chamber of Commerce named Crawford Knott as the 2023 John Penn Citizen of the Year at its 82nd annual membership meeting and banquet on Monday, sponsored by Granville Health System. More than 200 chamber members and guests attended the event, held at The Barn at Vino in Stem.
Knott was presented the award by Xavier Wortham, a former award recipient, who shared Knott’s outstanding dedication to his community in various capacities over the years.
The Chamber’s Education Committee shone a spotlight on outstanding students from the current academic year. Jade Gingue, chair of the Education Committee and president-elect recognized Cassie Peele, AJ Heggie, and Madison Lavrack, all students who are recipients of the Student Spotlight award. These students who are employed by Chamber members, along with other spotlight nominees, are now eligible to apply for scholarships offered by the Chamber, fostering the next generation of community leaders.
Additionally, Winston International was honored as the 2023 Small Business of the Year. The 2022 recipient Trey Snide, offered remarks about the family-owned business and its commitment to excellence and support to the community. Winston President Rob Winston accepted the award alongside his family and several members of the Winston team.