NC Coop Extension

Franklin Cooperative Extension’s Small Farm Boot Camp Begins Apr. 3

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The Franklin County Cooperative Extension is hosting a regional Small Farm Boot Camp designed to provide information for new and beginning farmers and homesteaders and others who are looking for innovative ways to market farm or garden products.

The series will be held on Thursdays in April, beginning Apr. 3 and continuing on Apr. 10, 17 and 24. Each session will begin at 4 p.m. and will be held at the Franklin County Plaza Conference Room, 279 S. Bickett Blvd., in Louisburg.

A culminating activity that includes a local farm tour is planned for Sunday, May 11.

The deadline to register for the program is Wednesday, Apr. 2. The cost is $150.

Register on Eventbrite at https://go.ncsu.edu/2025smallfarmbootcamp.
For additional information, call the Franklin County Extension Office at 919.496.3344, or contact Martha Mobley Ag Agent, martha_mobley@ncsu.edu.

Learn more at https://franklin.ces.ncsu.edu/.

Franklin Co. Planning & Inspections Director Scott Hammerbacher Named Assistant County Manager

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— information courtesy of Franklin County Public Information Officer James F. Hicks III

 

Franklin County has named county Planning & Inspections director Scott Hammerbacher as assistant county manager.

Hammerbacher fills a vacancy created by Will Doerfer, who resigned in October 2024. Hammerbacher has worked for the county for 19 years – 16 years as planning and inspections director.

“I am looking forward to expanding my service to Franklin County as an assistant county manager,” said Hammerbacher. “I have enjoyed my time in the Planning Department and am looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the County Manager’s office.”

Previously, he served as a planner in both Holly Springs and Reading, PA and as a construction manager in Ocean City, MD. He was named Franklin County Employee of the Year in 2009.

“Scott brings a wealth of planning and project management experience to the County Manager’s office as assistant county manager,” said Ryan Preble, interim county manager.

Hammerbacher received a bachelor’s degree in geography with a concentration in environmental planning from Salisbury State University in Salisbury, MD.

 

The Local Skinny! Aviation Academies at the Henderson-Oxford Airport

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The Henderson-Oxford Airport is one of a dozen airports to get state funding to host summer academies for students in grades K-12 who want to learn more about aviation and the aerospace industry.

The N.C. Dept. of Transportation’s Division of Aviation has awarded grants of up to $5,000 for these smaller airports to have programs for young people, according to information from NCDOT.

“We’re thrilled to partner with airports across the state to offer these academies,” said Nick Short, interim director of the NCDOT Division of Aviation. “Not only do students have an incredible time learning about aviation, but they also gain valuable insight into the career opportunities available in this dynamic and growing industry. It’s about sparking curiosity and showing them that the sky really is the limit.”

The academies are designed to engage students in hands-on activities, interactive lessons and behind-the-scenes experiences that bring the aviation industry to life. Participants can look forward to flight simulator sessions, airport tours, aircraft demonstrations and opportunities to connect with aviation professionals who share their passion for the skies. Triangle North Executive Airport in Louisburg is also participating in the summer academy program.

The ACE Academy Grant Program is a key component of the Division of Aviation’s mission to support aerospace and aviation workforce development. By funding these academies, the Division is helping to cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals who will contribute to the state’s robust aviation sector.

Parents and students interested in participating in this year’s ACE Academies can learn more by visiting the NCDOT web page devoted to the academies, which contains contact information for each.

James N. Brown, Jr., director of Customized Training at Vance-Granville Community College, is the contact person for both local airports. Contact Brown at 252.738.3520 or brownj@vgcc.edu.

CLICK PLAY!

41st Annual VGCC Golf Tournament Set To Tee Off May 5,6

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The 41st annual Vance-Granville Community College Foundation’s Golf Tournament for Scholarships is set for Monday, May 5 and Tuesday, May 6 at the Henderson Country Club.

The four-member team Super Ball tournament begins with lunch and registration at 11:30 a.m. and shotgun start at 1 p.m., according to information from Sheri Jones, The VGCC Foundation’s associate director.

Find registration forms and sponsorship information here:

The VGCC Foundation Golf Tournament – Vance Granville Community College.

The golf tournament is one of VGCC’S primary fundraisers for The Foundation. Money raised will be used for scholarships to help eligible students with the cost of tuition and books, as well as emergency grants.

The golf tournament provides resources for the College to remove barriers in order to enhance and expand its efforts to address need-based aid for students and promote equitable outcomes for all learners.

Sponsors, please note that payment must be received to guarantee your sponsorship. Please make checks payable to The VGCC Foundation. Online payments can be made at The VGCC Foundation Online Gifts Page.

For more information, contact foundation@vgcc.edu.

NC Forest Service

N.C. Forest Service: Statewide Open Burning Ban In Effect Until Further Notice

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A statewide open burning ban is currently in effect, and the N.C. Forest Service has cancelled all burning permits until further notice because of the increased risk of wildfires.

The ban prohibits all open burning in all 100 counties, even if a permit previously had been issued. New permits will not be granted until the ban is lifted. Anyone who violates the burn ban faces a $100 fine plus $183 in court costs and anyone responsible for setting a fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire, according to information from the N.C. Forest Service.

Local fire departments and law enforcement officers are assisting the N.C. Forest Service in enforcing the burn ban.

Although the burn ban does not apply to fires started within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling, local fire marshals have the authority to suspend permits for those fires as well. Earlier Friday, WIZS News received information from Warren County Fire Marshal Greg Henry and Franklin County Fire Marshal Trey Evans stating that all burn permits issued for open burns within 100 feet of a residence also are suspended for as long as the state burning ban is in effect.

“It is spring wildfire season in North Carolina, and we are seeing wildfire activity increase due to dry conditions,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “With these ongoing conditions, a statewide burn ban is necessary to reduce the risk of wildfires starting and spreading quickly. Our top priority is always to protect lives, property and forestland across the state. It is imperative that folks adhere to this burn ban until further notice.”

The N.C. Forest Service will continue to monitor conditions.

Contact your county’s fire marshal or N.C. Forest Service ranger for more information

 

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is open burning? 

A: Open burning includes burning leaves, branches or other plant material. In all cases, burning trash, lumber, tires, newspapers, plastics or other nonvegetative material is illegal.

Q: May I still use my grill or barbecue? 

A: Yes, if no other local ordinances prohibit their use.

Q: How should I report a wildfire? 

A: Call 911 to report a wildfire.

Q: How should I report a person who intentionally starts a wildfire? 

A: Call 911 to report a wildfire.

Q: My local fire marshal has also issued a burn ban for my county. What does this mean?

A: The burn ban issued by the N.C. Forest service does not apply to a fire within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. Local government agencies have jurisdiction over open burning within 100 feet of an occupied dwelling. The N.C. Forest Service has advised county fire marshals of the burning ban and has asked for their consideration of also implementing a burning ban. If a fire within a 100-foot area of a dwelling escapes containment, a North Carolina forest ranger may take reasonable steps to extinguish or control it. The person responsible for setting the fire may be liable for any expenses related to extinguishing the fire.

Q: Are there other instances which impact open burning?

A: Local ordinances and air quality regulations may impact open burning. For instance, outdoor burning is prohibited in areas covered by Code Orange or Code Red air quality forecasts. Learn more about air quality forecasts at https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/air-quality/air-qualityoutreach-education/air-quality-forecasts.

Q: Can I have a campfire when I go camping? 

A: Campfires would be considered open burning and are not exempt from the burn ban. During a burn ban, portable gas stoves or grills are alternate methods for cooking food while camping.

Q: What can I do to protect my house against the risk of wildfire?

A: Learn about wildfire risk assessments and preparedness and prevention plans on the N.C. Forest Service website at https://www.ncforestservice.gov/fire_control/fc_wui.htm or https://www.resistwildfirenc.org/.

The Local Skinny! VGCC Foundation Fundraiser Saturday, April 5 At HighRock Farms

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Join The VGCC Foundation at the second annual wine tasting gala and silent auction fundraiser on Saturday, April 5, from 6 – 9 p.m. to help support students facing unforeseen financial crises.

The event’s theme is  “Unlocking Possibilities: You Are Key,” and will take place at HighRock Farms in Granville County.

Unexpected burdens can easily derail some students. Through initiatives like a food pantry, emergency assistance, transportation vouchers and career closet, The VGCC Foundation steps in to meet students’ basic needs when the unexpected gets in the way of their academic progress, according to information from VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel.

Now in its second year, the wine tasting gala and silent auction features an array of wineries showcasing their signature wines including reds, whites, bubbly and more. Guests will enjoy a buffet of foods including chicken, beef, and more (as well as tea and water), while The Hub will offer a variety of beer and wine for purchase by the glass.

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. Also added this year is a Wine Pull and various raffle opportunities. A short program showcasing students who have benefited from donor contributions will open the evening, and local students will provide the event’s entertainment.

HighRock Farms, located at 2317 Enon Road outside Oxford, is owned by Beth and Dave Hollister.

Dress for the evening is business attire.

Tickets are $75 each and may be purchased through The Vance-Granville Community College Foundation office. Only 150 tickets will be sold, so be sure to get yours early! To purchase tickets online, visit www.vgcc.edu/the-vgcc-foundation-online-gifts and enter “Gala” in the Designation box. To purchase tickets using any other method, please email foundation@vgcc.edu or call 252.738.3264.

Click Play!

Maintenance At Dozens Of CSX RR Crossings In March; Drivers, Expect Detours

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Drivers in Vance County who typically cross the CSX railroad tracks, the one that goes right through downtown Henderson, may encounter a detour or two starting March 3 and continuing until March 28th.

Perhaps you’ve already seen the piles of crossties along the line. Maintenance work is scheduled, with some closures lasting from 2-to-5 days. Major crossings like those at Warrenton Road, Andrews Avenue, Chavasse Avenue and Bearpond Road are expected to be completed on the same day.

New railroad ties will be installed on the track from Manson almost as far south as Franklinton.  Work is scheduled to begin in Warren County, continue through Vance County and end in Franklin County.

Initial projections have the work at Warrenton Road being done March 10 with the work going through Henderson that week and reaching Bearpond Road on March 17.

Southern Commercial Development is the traffic control contractor coordinating the project for CSX and will be in charge of creating detours during the various road closures.

There are 32 crossings in Vance County that will see work, as well as two each in Warren and Franklin counties. Eleven of the 32 involve either private roads or one-way access roads and work crews will try to complete those projects within 24 hours.

According to the Director of Media Relations Austin Staton of CSX, the project is estimated to take four weeks and should be wrapped up by Mar. 28.

The length of time the railroad crossings are closed will be dictated by the type of maintenance they are set to receive, but crossings will not be closed for the duration of the project.

To see which crossings are scheduled for maintenance, click on the link below, which lists each crossing and the estimated dates the maintenance should occur:

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1IX49r53Iuc2CC94RdcjTDQzuWHiclT0&usp=sharing

4-H Dairy Youth Program Interest Meeting Re-Scheduled To Tuesday, Feb. 25

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Youth in Warren and Franklin counties interested in showing dairy calves are invited to a 4-H Dairy Youth Program interest meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 25 in Louisburg. This meeting was originally scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20, but has been re-scheduled because of the winter storm.

The Feb. 25 meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Franklin County Cooperative Extension Annex in Louisburg.

During the 8-week program, youth will learn about dairy calves and preparing them for a local show. In addition to learning more about handling livestock, participants will gain knowledge about communication, public speaking, record-keeping, teamwork and problem solving.

Bi-weekly practices will begin on Monday, April 7.

Register online at go.ncsu.edu/franklin2025dairymeeting

For more information, please contact the office at 919.496.3344,

Contact your local livestock agent to learn more:

Franklin County Gets $1M Investment With Addition Of Building Materials Manufacturer In Youngsville

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— information courtesy of Franklin County Public Information Officer James F. Hicks III

 

An Arizona-based manufacturer is expanding its East Coast presence with a new facility in Youngsville, resulting in a $1 million investment for the county and the creation of between five and 10 jobs.

Quail Run Building Materials, Inc. — a leading manufacturer of cold-formed steel building components — will expand its operations with the establishment of a 10,000-square-foot manufacturing plant at 265 Northbrook Drive in Youngsville, according to information from Franklin County Public Information Officer James F. Hicks III.

“We are excited to welcome Quail Run Building Materials to Franklin County,” said Barbara Fiedor, Franklin County Economic Development director. “Their investment and job creation will not only strengthen our local economy but also enhance our reputation as a prime location for companies in the manufacturing sector and demonstrate Franklin County’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment for new development and investment.”

Quail Run was established in 1986 and is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. The company is known for its high-quality products and commitment to innovation in construction solutions.

“We are thrilled Quail Run Building Materials has chosen Franklin County for their East Coast expansion,” said Ryan Preble, Franklin County interim county manager. “Their presence will bolster our local manufacturing sector and provide valuable opportunities for our community.”

This new facility marks the company’s strategic move to North Carolina to better serve the East Coast market and strengthen its industry presence.

“Quail Run Building Materials is excited to expand operations with our new facility in North Carolina.  Both the Town of Youngsville and Franklin County have been great partners in the development of this project, and we are excited to work with neighboring businesses as well as the local community to create additional growth and economic opportunity,” said Craig Gautschi, Senior Vice President, East Coast Division.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening event are planned for late April 2025. For additional information about the grand opening or to learn more about employment opportunities, email CraigGautschi@qrbm.com or by visit the company website at www.qrbm.com.

Thinking Of Planting A Specialty Crop? N.C. Ag Dept. Accepting Grant Applications

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The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is accepting grant applications for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in the marketplace. Nonprofits and government agencies have until 5 p.m. on Mar 10 to submit applications.

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is managed by the department, through anticipated funding by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Eligible projects must involve fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, culinary herbs and spices, medicinal plants, nursery, floriculture or horticulture crops.

“We are fortunate in North Carolina that our farmers can grow just about any crop, which means the production of specialty crops continues to grow and add to the state’s $111 billion ag industry,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This $1.2 million in grants helps support and grow specialty crop production.”

The department will accept grant requests of up to $200,000 from nonprofit organizations, academia, commodity associations, state and local government agencies, and colleges and universities. Grants are not available for projects that directly benefit or provide a profit to a single organization, institution or individual.

See https://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp/specialty-crop for a comprehensive listing of qualifying specialty crops. For grant guidelines and an application, go to www.ncspecialtycrops.com/apply. For questions, contact Jenni Keith at 919.707.3158 or by email at jenni.keith@ncagr.gov.