NCDOT Seeks Public Comment on Transportation Projects

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WIZS Note: The Division 5 meeting, including Durham, Franklin, Granville, Person, Vance, Wake and Warren counties will be held Tuesday, June 19, 2018, from 4 – 6 p.m. at the NCDOT Division 5 Office, 2612 N. Duke St., Durham.

-Press Release, NCDOT

RALEIGH – Starting June 4, North Carolinians are invited to express their opinions about which regional and local transportation projects should be top priorities in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) – a 10-year plan that identifies funding for projects and schedules them for construction.

The N.C. Department of Transportation combines data and local input to determine which projects will get built, using a formula established in the Strategic Transportation Investments (STI) law to focus funding on projects that will reduce congestion, improve safety and promote economic growth.

During a public comment period that runs from June 4 through July 9, NCDOT will collect feedback from citizens who express their views at public meetings, online, by phone or in writing.

Public Meetings

NCDOT’s 14 local transportation divisions will host informal meetings to present proposed projects and to receive public comment. The first meetings are Monday, June 4, in Winston-Salem (Division 9) and Thursday, June 7, in Aberdeen (Division 8).  See below for the schedules and locations of all the public meetings.

At each meeting, citizens are invited to stop in and provide input on how the division plans to rank its project priorities. Please note that these meetings are not for maintenance projects, such as patching potholes, resurfacing roads or improving ditches.

NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for anyone with disabilities who wants to participate in the public meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Lauren Putnam, Public Involvement Officer, at 919-707-6072 or by email at lnputnam1@ncdot.gov as early as possible so that these arrangements can be made.

Other Ways to Participate

In addition to the public meetings, NCDOT is offering other options for citizens to provide input starting Monday, June 4, through the STI website (ncdot.gov/sti).  Citizens can complete a short, interactive survey to identify priority projects, or send a message to their local division planning engineer.

The online survey features an interactive state map with the proposed projects up for funding.  Citizens can review project information and provide feedback on which projects they think are important.

The STI website provides the phone numbers and postal addresses of local division planning engineers, for citizens who want to comment on transportation projects by telephone or mail.

In April, NCDOT released data scores for more than 2,100 transportation improvement projects across the state, in the first round of an evaluation process to determine which projects will be scheduled for construction.  Also in April, NCDOT identified 77 high-scoring Statewide Mobility projects that will be programmed for funding over the next decade.

Next Steps

After the comment period ends on July 9, NCDOT will combine the data scores and local input to produce the total project scores. A draft list of the top-scoring Regional Impact projects is scheduled for release in August. A similar process for local input will take place in the fall for local Division Needs projects.

Once all project scores are finalized, the top-scoring projects will be programmed for construction based on available funding. Other factors may determine whether a project ultimately moves to construction, including the completion of environmental and engineering plans, corridor spending limits prescribed by law, and other federal and state funding restrictions.

This information will be used to create the next STIP for the years 2020-2029. NCDOT will release a draft STIP for public comment in January 2019. The final 2020-2029 STIP is expected to be adopted by the N.C. Board of Transportation in June 2019.

The STI law, enacted in 2013, established a data-driven process that allows NCDOT to invest transportation dollars more efficiently and effectively.  NCDOT updates the STIP approximately every two years to ensure that it accurately reflects the state’s current financial situation.

Meeting Dates and Locations

  • JUNE 14, 5-7 P.M. – EDENTON
    (DIVISION 1: Camden, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Bertie, Hertford, Northampton, Chowan, Hyde, Martin, Tyrrell and Washington counties)
    NCDOT Division 1 Office
    113 Airport Drive
    Edenton, N.C.  27932
  • JUNE 12, 4-6 P.M. – KINSTON
    (DIVISION 2: Beaufort, Carteret, Craven, Greene, Jones, Lenoir, Pamlico and Pitt counties)
    NCDOT Division 2 Office
    2815 Rouse Road Ext.
    Kinston, N.C. 28504
  • JUNE 12, 5-7 P.M. – CASTLE HAYNE
    (DIVISION 3: Brunswick, Duplin, Onslow, New Hanover, Pender and Sampson counties)
    NCDOT Division 3 Office
    5501 Barbados Blvd.
    Castle Hayne, N.C. 28429
  • JUNE 12, 5-7 P.M. – WILSON
    (DIVISION 4: Edgecombe, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Wayne and Wilson counties)
    NCDOT Division 4 Office
    509 Ward Blvd.
    Wilson, N.C.  27895
  • JUNE 19, 4-6 P.M. – DURHAM
    (DIVISION 5: Durham, Franklin, Granville, Person, Vance, Wake and Warren counties)
    NCDOT Division 5 Office
    2612 N. Duke St.
    Durham, N.C. 27704
  • JUNE 18, 5-7 P.M. – FAYETTEVILLE
    (DIVISION 6: Bladen, Columbus, Cumberland, Harnett and Robeson counties)
    NCDOT Division 6 Office
    558 Gillespie St.
    Fayetteville, N.C. 28301
  • JUNE 11, 5-7 P.M. – GREENSBORO
    (DIVISION 7: Alamance, Caswell, Guilford, Orange and Rockingham counties)
    NCDOT Division 7 Office
    1584 Yanceyville St.
    Greensboro, N.C.  27415
  • JUNE 7, 5-7 P.M. – ABERDEEN
    (DIVISION 8: Chatham, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Richmond and Scotland counties)
    NCDOT Division 8 Conference Room
    902 N. Sandhills Blvd.
    Aberdeen, N.C. 28315
  • JUNE 4, 4-6 P.M. – WINSTON-SALEM
    (DIVISION 9: Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Rowan and Stokes counties)
    NCDOT Division 9
    Conference Room
    375 Silas Creek Parkway
    Winston-Salem, N.C.  27127
  • JUNE 19, 5-7 P.M. – ALBEMARLE
    (DIVISION 10: Anson, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Stanly and Union counties)
    Stanly County Commissioners Meeting Room
    1000 N. First St.
    Albemarle, N.C. 28001
  • JUNE 11, 4-6 P.M. – NORTH WILKESBORO
    (DIVISION 11: Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Caldwell, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes, and Yadkin counties)
    NCDOT Division 11 Office
    802 Statesville Road
    N. Wilkesboro, N.C.  28659
  • JUNE 25, 5-7 P.M. – MAIDEN
    (DIVISION 12: Alexander, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell and Lincoln counties)
    Maiden Town Hall
    19 N. Main Ave.
    Maiden, N.C. 28650
  • JUNE 14, 5-7 P.M. – BLACK MOUNTAIN
    (DIVISION 13: Buncombe, Burke, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Rutherford and Yancey counties)
    Lake Tomahawk Park
    Lakeview Clubhouse
    401 Laurel Circle Drive
    Black Mountain, N.C.  28711
  • JUNE 11, 5-7 P.M. – HAYESVILLE & JUNE 12, 5-7 P.M. – MILLS RIVER
    (DIVISION 14: Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Polk, Swain and Transylvania counties)
    June 11:     Hayesville First United Methodist Church
    989 U.S. 64 Business
    Hayesville, N.C. 28904

Rebuilding Hope, Inc. to Participate in Servants on Site Event

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-Information courtesy Don Dunlin and the monthly Rebuilding Hope, Inc. Newsletter

Servants on Site Event – June 23 – 30, 2018

Participants in this year’s Servants on Site (SOS) will repair 12 roofs and build six wheelchair ramps. The June 23-30 event will be our sixth annual week of witnessing and sharing Christ and serving people in need in our communities.

As the May 1 deadline for registering passed, 153 participants had signed up.

Project Coordination

Leigh Humphries is once again project coordinator, a job she’s had since the first SOS week in 2013.

Leigh, who lives in Person County, has sorted through the registrants and organized the crews according to the types of jobs scheduled. Before the work begins, she will assign encouragers for the crews at the work sites, which she visits during the week.

Leigh’s duties continue once the day’s work is done as she helps chaperone the youth overnight at Crossroads Christian School.

“It’s a big job and a huge responsibility,” says Leigh, a member of Theresa Baptist Church.

“This time of year I get a little anxious,” she said, “but when the kids get here there’s a lot of joy.”

Materials Coordination

Without a steady supply of materials, the jobs would not be completed. And that’s where Walt Slaton, a member of Central Baptist Church, comes in as materials coordinator.

With a worksheet describing each job, Walt assembles shingles, tar paper, lumber, nails, bolts, nuts, washers, tools, compressors, hoses and more the week before SOS. Materials are on-hand, donated or purchased locally. Where possible, materials are delivered to sites before the work week begins.

Throughout the week, Walt says he has runners ready at the RHI warehouse to resupply workers through a chain that begins with a job’s crew chief who notifies a multisite supervisor. The supervisor notifies Walt who dispatches a runner.

Destination SOS

In addition to participants from Vance, Granville, Warren and neighboring counties, teams will be coming from a number of communities, such as Roxboro, Windy Gap and Otto, reports Martha McGowan, SOS secretary and a member of West End Baptist Church.

And it’s also Destination SOS for teams from Alabama and South Carolina.

Breakfast and Supper

Breakfast and supper are served at Central Baptist Church, beginning with Sunday breakfast before the work week begins.

Central Baptist member Roger Bibee does most of the cooking.

Supplies, Roger says, include 4-5 cases of liquid eggs, 300 chicken quarters, 10 gallons of spaghetti sauce and noodles, 40-45 pounds of bacon, sausage, hash browns and more. Supper includes a full salad bar. A team of six helps with serving and cleaning up.

Lunches

Fifteen churches will provide lunches for the teams at the work sites. The churches are Fuller’s Chapel, Gardner Baptist Church, First Baptist Church (Creedmoor), West End Baptist Church, Raleigh Road Baptist Church, Liberty Christian Church, New Bethel Baptist Church, New Life Baptist Church (Henderson), North Henderson Baptist Church, New Sandy Creek Baptist Church, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Carey Baptist Church, Oxford Baptist Church, Island Creek Baptist Church, and Norlina Baptist Church.

Week’s Theme is “Fixed”

The theme for the week this year is “Fixed.” The meaning of the theme will be explained by guest speakers at each of the evening worship services during the week.

The services and their emphases will be: Sunday, “Need Fixing,” based on Romans 3:9-18; Monday, “Can Be Fixed,” based on Romans 1:16; Tuesday, “All Eyes Fixed on Jesus,” a panel discussion; Thursday, “God’s Plan is Fixed,” based on Matthew 28; Friday, “God is Fixing a Place – Eternity,” based on John 14:1-11. On Wednesday afternoon, participants have free time.

The public is encouraged to attend the worship services at 7 p.m. at Central Baptist Church, except Wednesday night.

Needs for SOS

Volunteers – Adult/college-age volunteers are needed to serve as staff during the week. Staff assists with setting up the rooms, posting signs and schedules and for chores such as cleaning bath and restroom facilities.

Financial Support for SOS Projects

A roofing project costs approximately $2,000, but any amount is appreciated. A church sponsoring a project will “adopt” the crew for the week and serve lunch each day. Your crew will attend your church for worship and lunch on Sunday and meet your congregation. Afterward, the crew will visit the homeowner.

How to Bring a Group to Rebuilding Hope, Inc.

RHI has a number of volunteer opportunities throughout the year and will work with you or your group (youth or adult) to not only meet the needs of homeowners but also to meet the needs of your group in its effort to put its faith into action serving others.

We provide job locations and materials for hands-on experience and will arrange for one-day projects or projects for more than one day. Overnight accommodations can be arranged. E-mail us at rwilson@rebuildinghopeinc.org or call 252-438-5132 for more information or registration.

Please visit Rebuilding Hope’s website at www.rebuildinghopeinc.org for additional information on the organization and the upcoming SOS event.

 

VGCC Basic Skills Graduates Encouraged to Dream of Better Futures

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Graduates of Vance-Granville Community College’s Adult Basic Skills programs received a double dose of encouragement to dream of better futures and work to make those dreams come true at their commencement exercises on May 3.

The honorees were among those students who have completed either the Adult High School Diploma program or the High School Equivalency program in the past year.

The principal commencement speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Dorwin L. Howard, Sr., retired superintendent of Granville County Public Schools. The Oxford native followed at the podium a presentation by Jennifer Pascual of Henderson, speaking on behalf of the graduating students. A native of Vance County, Pascual completed her High School Equivalency in April after attending classes on the main campus.

Above: Retired Granville County Schools Superintendent Dr. Dorwin Howard of Oxford addresses VGCC Adult Basic Skills graduates. (VGCC photo)

“Do you have a dream?” Dr. Howard asked the graduates. “Do you have a vision of what your future could look like? If you’ve not begun to dream already, I urge you to do so right now. The truth of the matter is that you cannot afford not to dream.”

Citing his work as a school administrator, Dr. Howard recalled student-athletes who had size, speed, strength and a natural talent for athletics. Those attributes, however, were inadequate without an initiative to work, the discipline to practice and the humility to follow the guidance of coaches, he said. “Champions are not born. They are made,” Dr. Howard said, noting the process begins with a dream.

Citing Amos 6:1 from the Old Testament, Dr. Howard urged the graduates to apply themselves. “Woe unto you who will not apply yourself in order to make yourself better. Woe unto you who are looking for the easy way out,” he said.

“I dare you to dream tonight. Dream of entering the workplace. Envision yourself climbing the ladder of success. Dream of continuing your education to help you advance in your career. Dream of earning well. Dream of living well…. But note that dreams don’t become reality by chance. They don’t happen by luck. Dreams begin in your head and heart and become real as you work to make them come true.”

He encouraged the graduates to explore possibilities by reading about what they would like to become and do in life, to be willing to take risks to succeed and to continue to be diligent and work hard. “Dreamers make things happen,” he said.

“Like your parents, relatives and friends, like your instructors and counselors who worked with you and the administrators here at Vance-Granville Community College, I too believe in you and I believe that one day you will make your dreams come true,” he concluded.

Above: Jennifer Pascual of Henderson addresses her fellow VGCC Adult Basic Skills graduates. (VGCC photo)

Student speaker Pascual described for her fellow graduates what had not always been an easy road in life because of family and financial challenges. She described having a dream as a 12-year-old of being a pediatrician; however, that dream faded when her mother and father separated, her family faced the future without a father, her mother battled diabetes while working for 25 years in the tobacco fields, and a brother was deported.

“I gave up on my dreams. I also wanted to give up on life,” she said. “But then I had to think about my mother and what she would go through.”

“While it’s not been easy for my family, I’m glad I made it this far to get my High School Equivalency diploma. I didn’t think I would be able to graduate this year because of financial struggles,” she said. “This program got me focused on my future, a better future for myself and family…. As this program has come to an end for me, I want to make my dreams a new reality by becoming a registered nurse.”

She praised her instructors, including Glenn Alston whose teaching helped her “get the hang of math,” and the department chair for Basic Skills, Dr. Greg Nash, who encouraged her to pursue the curriculum nursing program at VGCC now.

“I now realize not to let fear stop me from pursuing my dreams,” she said. “If I can do this, you can, too. Dream big! Chase your dreams until you catch them!”

Dr. Levy Brown, VGCC’s vice president of academic affairs, announced a special incentive to the graduates to continue their education at Vance-Granville. “Commencement, as you know, does not mean an ‘ending.’ It means a ‘beginning,’ and that is especially true on this occasion tonight,” he said. “The diploma that you will receive will allow you to achieve your dreams wherever you may go.”

As an extra incentive for graduates to begin their collegiate studies, Dr. Brown announced that each graduate would receive a certificate worth free tuition and fees for one semester of courses in curriculum programs or continuing education courses at VGCC, absorbing costs not covered by federal financial aid. “This certificate for tuition and fees is our way of saying ‘congratulations’ and ‘keep going,’” he said.

In conferring diplomas to the graduates, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the president of VGCC, praised the graduates and applauded the Basic Skills faculty for preparing students to succeed.

After Dr. Nash announced the candidates for graduation, Dr. Brown assisted Dr. Williams in presenting diplomas.

Also on the program were Tiffany Hunter and Owenwiston Raymond III, both 2018 HSE diploma graduates, who provided the welcome and introduced the student speaker, respectively; Michael Young, an instructor in Basic Skills, who introduced Dr. Howard; Dawn Michelle Tucker, dean of Continuing Education and Basic Skills, who offered remarks; and the Rev. Terry Huffines of First United Methodist Church of Henderson, who provided the invocation and benediction.

More photos: Check out VGCC’s album on Flickr!

Video from the Ceremony: Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

VGCC Releases Names of 2018 Basic Skills Graduates

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-Information courtesy Vance-Granville Community College

VGCC ADULT HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAS

 

Vance County

Seion Bobbitt, Henderson

Lateria Christmas, Henderson

Jazmer Cole, Henderson

Shawn Davis, Henderson

Grethel Flores Tavera, Henderson

Sherrell Harris, Henderson

Andrew Creech, Kittrell

David Kaiser, Kittrell

Shadian Whitmore, Kittrell

 

Granville County

Gavin Carroll, Bullock

Leslie Collie, Creedmoor

 

Franklin County

Christopher Ayscue, Franklinton

Haley Briggs, Franklinton

Chy-Na Fuller, Franklinton

Jadan Puett, Franklinton

Trevor Martin, Louisburg

Patrick O’Neal, Louisburg

Sarah Wilds, Louisburg

Kathrine Herbig, Youngsville

Jacob Naegele, Youngsville

Logan Robbins, Youngsville

 

Warren County

Patrick McCollough, Henrico

Joshua Edwards, Littleton

Mason Keys, Littleton

Alford Brandon, Norlina

Shadae Jackson, Norlina

Chaquell Jiggetts, Norlina

Krystle Reid, Norlina

Taylor Sidden, Norlina

Delahoya Benjamin, Warrenton

Sharron Lewis-Williams, Warrenton

Juanita Mincey, Warrenton

Victoria Perry , Warrenton

Gabrielle Seward, Warrenton

Earnest Solomon, Warrenton

Imani Swinney, Warrenton

 

Wake County

Alexandria McKinnon, Garner

Nikayla Morgan, Raleigh

Lyndaiha Sullivan-Henry, Raleigh

Isaiah Napier, Wake Forest

Brianna Cid, Zebulon

Cynthia Leon, Zebulon

Anasia Perry, Zebulon

 

Other Communities

Jaime Villareal, Asheboro

Tristan Martin, Bradenton, Fla.

Jairin Shaw, Burlington

Tiffany Joyner, Carrboro

Ahjah Lewis-Rowe, Charlotte

James Shepherd, Charlotte

Dontravious Williams, Charlotte

Ebony Wilson, Charlotte

Kyle Broas, Clayton

Robert Osborne, Dallas

James Moore, Durham

Keion Evans, Enfield

Deonte Robinson, Fayetteville

Thaddeus Dozier, Greensboro

Infinity Miller, Greensboro

Jerome Ballance, Jacksonville

Kimberly Birdlow, Lake Wylie, S.C.

Alexander Ingram, Lexington

Matthew Neal, Lexington

Kashief Matos, Pinetops

Armon Davis, Plymouth

Hassan Bangura, Rocky Mount

Christopher Spruill, Tarboro

Kwon’shelya Best, Williamston

Clarissa Overton, Winston Salem

 

VGCC HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY

 

Vance County

Cameron Bollinger, Henderson

Johnathan Brooks, Henderson

Bridget Crute, Henderson

Janie Evans, Henderson

Chase Gupton, Henderson

Vernon Jenkins Jr., Henderson

Christie Matthews, Henderson

Erin McGhee, Henderson

Michael Noyce, Henderson

Jennifer Pascual, Henderson

Owenwiston Raymond III, Henderson

Leonardo Renteria, Henderson

Jeremy Roberson, Henderson

Michael Stutzman, Henderson

Taylor Walker, Henderson

Lonnie Webb Jr., Henderson

Denise Woodard, Henderson

Christopher Gaither, Kittrell

Matthew Varker, Kittrell

Rebekah Varker, Kittrell

 

Granville County

Travis Sizemore, Bullock

Christopher Smith, Butner

Barry Avery, Creedmoor

Danielle Blackwell, Oxford

Monica Foster, Oxford

Tiffiny Hunter, Oxford

Charles Johnson, Oxford

Karen Montalvo-Franco, Oxford

 

Franklin County

James Goodson, Franklinton

Michael Ray, Franklinton

Christina Tyson, Franklinton

Shakera Alston, Louisburg

Timon Bailey, Louisburg

Dorothy Bobbitt, Louisburg

Noah Corbett, Louisburg

Serenity Corbett, Louisburg

Ronald Dement Jr., Louisburg

Cathrine Forsyth, Louisburg

Rose Johnson, Louisburg

Emily Martinez, Louisburg

Eric Trammell, Louisburg

Kenneth Jeffreys, Youngsville

 

Warren County

Eric Alexander, Manson

Serenia Lester, Warrenton

Christopher Tharrington, Warrenton

 

Wake County

Benjamin Mashburn, Apex

Amanda Bridges, Wake Forest

Jesse Pendleton, Wake Forest

 

Other Communities

Cheyenne Irby, Roxboro

Volunteers Needed for Red Cross’ Disaster Action Team

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The American Red Cross will hold Disaster Action Team Boot Camp sessions on Saturday, June 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday, June 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Franklin County Emergency Services building, 8146 NC-56 in Louisburg, NC.

Sessions are free of charge to Franklin, Warren, Vance and Granville County residents who are interested in being trained to respond to local disasters, such as house fires, on a volunteer basis. Attendance is required at both sessions to serve as a disaster response volunteer. Lunch will be provided to participants.

Jennifer VanGundy, senior volunteer specialist with the American Red Cross, was on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday to provide details regarding the Disaster Action Team Boot Camp and its purpose.

“In this area, we are in need of Disaster Action Team members to help respond to single-family fires or small disasters,” said VanGundy. “365 days a year, we have volunteer teams that are on standby in the local community and are second on the scene of a disaster. Internally, we often refer to them as second responders.”

According to VanGundy, teams respond within a two-hour call time and go on site to evaluate the situation; address family needs including clothing, food, shelter, a place to sleep for the night; take documentation to start the family’s case; help with long-term care needs; identify the possible need for mental health and/or spiritual assistance.

Responding teams usually consist of two trained volunteers and a response driver. VanGundy’s goal is to have at least three or four volunteers from each of the four local counties participate in the boot camp sessions.

The American Red Cross recently started the faster-paced two-day boot camp training approach as a way to bring volunteers up to speed more quickly so they are ready to respond to disasters sooner.

At the two-session boot camp, participants will:

  • Learn the Red Cross role and values for engaging with disaster clients, first responders, and the public
  • Understand functions of the Disaster Action Team (DAT), and expectations for DAT workers on a response
  • Discover roles a DAT member may perform on a large-scale disaster response
  • Learn casework and recovery planning processes and the system used
  • Learn how direct client assistance is issued and how referrals are made to community partners
  • Complete training through a simulation drill, practicing the skills learned during the classroom sessions
  • If desired, be assigned to a Disaster Action Team, and support the Red Cross in Franklin, Warren, Vance and Granville Counties

The local four-county area is part of 53 counties that make up the Eastern North Carolina region of the American Red Cross. VanGundy said the region averages eight disasters a day.

“Up to 94 percent of the American Red Cross workforce is volunteers,” VanGundy said. “Our disaster response team volunteers have gone out on Christmas Day, left their meals and left their families to respond to someone who has had a disaster happen in their home.”

VanGundy addressed the common concern volunteers have about being on-call, “We know the on-call part sometimes scares people. We understand that you have full-time jobs, children and other commitments.”

To make it easier for volunteers to communicate their availability, the American Red Cross now has an app that allows the Disaster Action Team member to select or “go” green when they are available and to “go” red when they are not available to respond to a call. “We do ask that volunteers go green more than they go red,” said VanGundy.

VanGundy believes that anyone who has a fairly flexible schedule and a desire to help others in need would make a good fit for the volunteer team, including retirees. “The only thing you need is to want to help in your own community and to have some flexibility in your schedule. Once you come in, we will provide the training you need and will have you ready to go by the end of the boot camp.”

For more information on the American Red Cross and volunteer opportunities, visit www.redcross.org and click the Volunteer tab. To participate in the June 2 and June 16 Disaster Action Team Boot Camp in Louisburg, please call Jennifer VanGundy at (919) 231-1602.

VGCC Releases Names of 2018 Curriculum Graduates

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VOCATIONAL or TECHNICAL DIPLOMA

Cosmetology

Eillah Kahmil Spivey, Bunn

Cheryl Anne Bragdon, Franklinton

Nitianndra Garryale Boyd, Henderson

Kadejah Monique Bass, Oxford

Tonisha Chandre Chavis, Oxford

Kristina Faith Graham, Raleigh

Ashley M Holden, Raleigh

Nicole Brueck, Wake Forest

Maya Elise Grimmett, Wake Forest

Electrical Systems Technology

James Otis Clark, Youngsville

Paralegal Technology

Barbara Edwards Sirucek, Louisburg

Jennifer Alondra Campos, Oxford

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE

 

Accounting

Ciara Shantel Lynch, Franklinton

Jennifer Marie Burton, Norlina

Associate Degree Nursing

Valerie Jade Strange, Bullock

Matthew Hartmann Grooms, Butner

Caitlin Elizabeth Moen, Cary

Tammy Lynn Emery, Creedmoor

Mary Ann Rojas-Galvan, Creedmoor

Caitlyn Brooke Smith, Creedmoor

Victoria Mawumenyo Puplampu, Durham

Stephen Mwaura Gakumo, Durham

Mujahid Yagoub, Durham

Tonya Marie Berry, Franklinton

Shakeera Monique Robinson, Franklinton

Jeannie Sheree Adcock, Henderson

William Tracey Autrey, Henderson

Kaylan Cheryl Hoyle, Henderson

Courtney Breann Moss, Henderson

Tasha Nicole Warren, Henderson

Joan Yancey Currin, Kittrell

Brittany Lynn McFarland, Kittrell

Guadalupe Fabiola Duran Maya, Louisburg

Christine Marie Kingsley, Louisburg

Rachel Christian Morton, Louisburg

Jessica Lynne White, Louisburg

Britanny Nicole Beddingfield, Oxford

Jodie Dare Carroll, Oxford

Joy Lamelca Harris, Oxford

Brittani Renae Lynch, Oxford

Latonya Renee Morton, Oxford

Laura Louise Murray, Oxford

Crystal Michelle Satterfield, Oxford

Halie Catherine Brooks, Raleigh

Shayne Dillard Gravitt, Raleigh

Ashley Nicole Drake, Stovall

Roselyne Muhimpundu, Wake Forest

Omar Rexford O’Brien, Wake Forest

Automotive System Technology

Jacob Fleming Mosley, Henderson

Dustin Ray Burrows, Norlina

Business Administration

Sara Lynn Reid, Creedmoor

Bobbie Jean Wilkerson, Creedmoor

Christy Page Valerio, Durham

Teresa Ray Pope, Durham

Sarah Jean Gabriel, Franklinton

Griselle Martinez-Garcia, Franklinton

Crystal Renee Thomerson, Franklinton

Diane Thorpe Hunt, Henderson

Dana Lee Tuck, Henderson

Jennifer Marie Burton, Norlina

Angelica Lorraine Bridges, Oxford

Tammy Lynne Brown, Oxford

Stacy Thomas Hicks, Oxford

Mary Lewis Selvidge, Raleigh

Jason Lin Thompson, Stem

Lisa Ferris Haithcock, Warrenton

Jessica Morgan Howell, Warrenton

Computer Technology Integration

Andrew Alfred Dadson Jr, Butner

Criminal Justice Technology

Travis Calvin Campbell, Creedmoor

Tiffany Rozelia Wilson, Durham

Cherall Lynnette Martin, Henderson

Rebecka Rosane Paul, Henderson

Morgan Taylor Lawhorne, Henderson

Catherine Elizabeth Crowder, Oxford

Wesley Scott Whitley, Oxford

Culinary Arts

Tyneshia Monae Brackett, Creedmoor

Niamani Faithe Dantzler-Sneed, Henderson

Sara Christmas Cheek, Louisburg

Danielle Nicole Enright, Louisburg

Ethel Christmas Fogg, Warrenton

Early Childhood Education

Maria Luiza Gutierrez, Durham

Deborah Edwards Barker, Franklinton

Anita Mann Fuller, Franklinton

Jamie Nicole Taylor, Franklinton

Amber N Gresham, Henderson

Jacquella S Jones, Henderson

Ella Hargrove Kelly, Henderson

Makala Ann West, Henderson

Summer Michelle Jessup, Louisburg

Tomekia Marie Rainey, Pinetops

Catherine Gable Jones, Raleigh

Electronics Engineering Technology

Jacob Randall Buchanan, Wake Forest

Elysse Martine Young, Wake Forest

Entrepreneurship

Austin R Lovegrove, Franklinton

Heather Ann Henkel, Sanford

Global Logistics and Distribution Management Technology

Charles Brandon Braswell, Wilson

Human Service Technology

Ana Toral-Sanchez, Franklinton

Fredesvinda Concepccion Euceda-Colindres, Creedmoor

Stalisha LaShawn Royster, Franklinton

Debra Ann Jones, Norlina

Mikala Lynn Tinsley, Oxford

Morgan Danielle Sumner, Youngsville

Human Services Technology/Gerontology

Caitlyn Marie Rudd, Franklinton

Pamela R. Campbell, Littleton

Information Technology

Nyrelle Shanay Busby, Henderson

Antoine Crudup, Henderson

Dustin L Starnes, Henderson

Graham Ellis, Oxford

Faustino Gregorio-Sanchez, Oxford

Richard Franklin Reynolds III, Stem

Mechatronics Engineering Technology

Kevin Glenn Greear, Franklinton

Charles Purdie Deese, Henderson

Medical Assisting

Melissa Carol Bridges, Creedmoor

Dajane Johnson, Henderson

Michelle Denise Beckwith, Kittrell

Melissa Barreto, Louisburg

Stephanie Marie Kearney, Louisburg

Kristy Ann Robertson, Louisburg

Kiera Shantrice Fogg, Warrenton

Mirna Lopez, Youngsville

Medical Office Administration

Cynthia Michelle Black, Bunn

Celestae Joyner Bailey, Durham

Timmara Durham Smith, Henderson

Jessica Catlett Allgood, Henderson

Tamara Francesca Glover, Henderson

Brianna Nicole Lynch, Hollister

Ashley King Bouchelle, Kittrell

Amanda Suzanne Aiken, Rougemont

Kaitlyn Ford Wilson, Roxboro

Rebecca Taylor George, Warrenton

Thomas Marshall King Jr., Wise

Office Administration

Ieshia Danielle Harris, Henderson

Katherine Lynn Mims, Warrenton

Paralegal Technology

Bratanya Kay Simmons, Henderson

Katie Scarlett Rogers, Louisburg

Paralegal Technology Caira Rose Romero Berube, Louisburg

Pharmacy Technology

Katrina Nichelle Evans, Henderson

Lesli Marisol Miranda, Henderson

Matthew Anthony Fuller, Rougemont

Radiography

Katie Ann Weary , Bullock

Brittnee Marie Orto, Creedmoor

Corinna Wray Hutton, Durham

James Dereke Bolton, Henderson

Crystal Cobb Gill, Henderson

Laurie Anne Newton, Henderson

Jan Carol Maniace, Hillsborough

Jennifer Dunn Wright, Hurdle Mills

Mark James Meinhart, Louisburg

Brittany Nicole Harmon, Norlina

Marco Antonio Carmen Vasquez, Oxford

Whitney Michelle Cox, Oxford

Gloria Maria Hudnall, Oxford

Aaron Jacob McNeill, Oxford

Johnathan Harold Williamson, Oxford

Terrance Mario Wesley, Raleigh

Ashley Michelle Rhew, Timberlake

Bethany Scarbrough Murphy, Youngsville

Welding Technology

Hernan Hernandez-Jimenez, Castalia

Cedric Jessie Rodebaugh II, Franklinton

Eduardo Ibarra Renteria, Henderson

Keodric Donte Grant, Oxford

Galen Dean Wilds, Stem

Austin Shane Holliday, Wake Forest

Andrew Michael Lynam, Youngsville

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS DEGREE

Nya Jynae Smith Allen, Butner

Marisol Galvan Romo, Butner

Jasmine Dominique Jackson, Butner

Ryan Vital Makueyi, Butner

Tiffany Martinez, Butner

Alma Liliana Ramirez Cortes, Butner

Aislinn Rea Servin, Butner

Matthew Thomas Lewis, Charlotte

Caitlyn Alexandra Good, Creedmoor

Shanika Jean Keith, Creedmoor

Mariah Rose Landis, Creedmoor

Andres-Manuel Mata Espino, Creedmoor

Aukeija Aoshane Merritt, Creedmoor

Owen Thomas Mettam, Creedmoor

Christina Angela Offenburg, Creedmoor

Samantha Jordan Shannon, Creedmoor

Tamiya Ronnae Thomas, Creedmoor

Charles Grant Wicker, Creedmoor

Malcolm J Jones, Creedmoor

Sarah Catherine Stewart, Creedmoor

Jocelyn Shantelle Williams, Durham

Tyler B Woods, Durham

Alexis Monroe Barton, Franklinton

Chloe Ava Bowman, Franklinton

Evan Taylor Dixon, Franklinton

Jeffrey Rojas, Franklinton

Abril Rosales-Martinez, Franklinton

Mya Danyel Wilson, Franklinton

Je’Ronee Mag’zheem Blackwell, Henderson

Stackia Lamondria Burwell, Henderson

Shaneisha Lorraine Eaton, Henderson

Taylor G Gregory, Henderson

Dy’quan Lugene Marrow, Henderson

Hunter Charles Antel, Henderson

Nancy Carolina Bonilla, Henderson

Mercedes Nemya Brust, Henderson

Cameron Gabriel Bullock, Henderson

Nahu Carlos, Henderson

Ke’Moni Malik Rashaad Champion, Henderson

Brooklyn Summer Davis, Henderson

Zairea Eboni Ashanaia Davis, Henderson

Zenee Toni Elajhia Davis, Henderson

Hong Dong, Henderson

Malcolm Slyvester Elam, Henderson

Nealee Ray Fisher, Henderson

Lehman Ricardo Ford, Henderson

Luke Mabry Frazier, Henderson

Allison Mahala Hines, Henderson

Brandy Nicole Hiracheta, Henderson

Brandon Joel Hughes, Henderson

Victoria Ashley Inscoe, Henderson

Nicholas Gray King, Henderson

Caroline Marie Oakley, Henderson

Brandy Lynne Patterson, Henderson

Brittney Michelle Patterson, Henderson

Jimmy Perez Ponce, Henderson

Hannah Marie Roberson, Henderson

Evan Tyler Stinson, Henderson

Latia Shonice Thomas, Henderson

Matthew Alexander White, Henderson

Suzanne Cathleen Williams, Henderson

Danielle Lorene Ayscue, Kittrell

Andrew Dylan Brame, Kittrell

Stephon Eldred Bryant, Kittrell

Amber Paige Hicks, Kittrell

Jordan Lee Rooker, Kittrell

Miranda Ann Simmons, Kittrell

Aaron Christopher Williams, Kittrell

Lillian Diane Kanouff, Kittrell

McKenzie Joy Taylor, Kittrell

Makayla Renee Williams, Littleton

Brandon Joseph Adams, Louisburg

Miles Anthony Brown, Louisburg

Matthew John Reynolds, Louisburg

Casey Marie Shellman, Louisburg

Sovanny Ruth Taylor, Louisburg

Kiah Monique Durham, Manson

Ty’ayala Ajahnae Shearin, Manson

Joshua Isaiah Jacobs, Morrisville

Timothy Lee Avent, Norlina

Dana Evans Brannock, Norlina

Maggie Rena Cabiness, Norlina

Haley Nicole Elliott, Oxford

Erica Julianne Evans, Oxford

Daisy Gomez-Palacios, Oxford

Noah Owen Hendrick, Oxford

Sarah Louise Mabe, Oxford

Amya Shanay Madison Bullock, Oxford

Dylan Anthony Newton, Oxford

Emely Kiara Ovando, Oxford

Laniya Dawn Rogers, Oxford

Diamond A’Nya Royster, Oxford

Daniel Greene Sexton, Oxford

Kimberly Michelle Spence, Oxford

Sydney Arielle Towers, Oxford

Hanna Lea Williams, Oxford

William Mitchell Beck, Raleigh

Angelina Rose Cherry, Stem

Leighana Elizabeth Dail, Stem

Osvaldo Hernandez Martinez, Stem

Nelson Sanchez Juarez, Stem

Caitlynn Ashley Taylor, Stem

Seth Norwood Moody, Townsville

Cam’ron Aqil Aiken, Wake Forest

Elizabeth Nicole Durand, Wake Forest

Brianna Marie Medina, Wake Forest

Edgar Ivan Arrieta-Reyes, Warrenton

Isaac Emmanuel Barnett, Warrenton

Aaron Michael Bender, Warrenton

Sarah Anne Boone, Warrenton

Jonathan Jesus Hernandez, Warrenton

Wen Bin Lin, Warrenton

Casey Tyler Pollock, Warrenton

Giovanni Reyes, Warrenton

Quendarius Kamarea Williams, Warrenton

Brenda Rook Whitley, Wendell

Maria Eugenia Najera, Youngsville

Brian Samuel Restrepo, Youngsville

Colton Shayne Black

Victoria Anne Dupree

Brian Thomas Van Dyke

David Clovis Williamson

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE DEGREE

Nya Jynae Smith Allen, Butner

Marisol Galvan Romo, Butner

Jasmine Dominique Jackson, Butner

Caitlyn Alexandra Good, Creedmoor

Andres-Manuel Mata Espino, Creedmoor

Iris Moriel Medrano, Creedmoor

Aukeija Aoshane Merritt, Creedmoor

Christina Angela Offenburg, Creedmoor

Tamiya Ronnae Thomas, Creedmoor

Charles Grant Wicker, Creedmoor

Gavin Cooper Hardin, Franklinton

Sadie Jesslyn Outhouse, Franklinton

Jeffrey Rojas, Franklinton

Abril Rosales-Martinez, Franklinton

Zana Roderica Townsend, Franklinton

Mya Danyel Wilson, Franklinton

Ligaya Carissa Glenn Santos Aguas, Henderson

Nancy Carolina Bonilla, Henderson

Morgan Taylor Daniels, Henderson

Brooklyn Summer Davis, Henderson

Malcolm Slyvester Elam, Henderson

Nealee Ray Fisher, Henderson

Lucas Reid Hamrick, Henderson

Victoria Ashley Inscoe, Henderson

Joelle Lane Pernell, Henderson

Lindsey Rebecca Perry, Henderson

Matthew Alexander White, Henderson

Alexander Nathan Long, Kittrell

Madison Dawn Waddle, Kittrell

Aaron Christopher Williams, Kittrell

McKenzie Joy Taylor, Kittrell

Nubia C Lockett, Louisburg

Matthew John Reynolds, Louisburg

Sovanny Ruth Taylor, Louisburg

Kiah Monique Durham, Manson

Hannah Rose Arneth, Oxford

Andrew Eugene Ayers, Oxford

Kierra Michelle Crews, Oxford

Daisy Gomez-Palacios, Oxford

Sarah Louise Mabe, Oxford

Laniya Dawn Rogers, Oxford

Daniel Greene Sexton, Oxford

Hailey Thomas Woodlief, Oxford

Osvaldo Hernandez Martinez, Stem

Caitlynn Ashley Taylor, Stem

Edgar Ivan Arrieta-Reyes, Warrenton

Isaac Emmanuel Barnett, Warrenton

Raina Amaya Mills, Warrenton

Casey Tyler Pollock, Warrenton

Giovanni Reyes, Warrenton

Stephen Dale Byrns, Youngsville

Christian Matthew Helsel, Youngsville

Alexis Mionna McSears, Youngsville

Brian Samuel Restrepo, Youngsville

Victoria Anne Dupree

Franklin County Schools

Tar River Elementary’s Second Annual Quarter Auction

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-Information courtesy Jason Overby, Tar River Elementary School PTSO

Tar River Elementary School, 2642 Philo White Road, Franklinton, will hold their second annual Quarter Auction on Saturday, June 2 from 5 until 8 p.m.

Tickets are $10 each. You receive one paddle with your ticket. Additional paddles may be available at the door for $5.

Some items available for auction:

American Girl Doll
Tickets to Charlotte White Water Rafting
Tickets to ECU Game, NC State Game, UNC Game, Durham Bulls Game, Carolina Mudcats Game
$250 Gift Certificate to Diamonds Direct
Texas Roadhouse Certificates
Chick Fil A Certificates
Fit Bit Alta and Fit Bit Charge 2
Yeti Tumbler
Tickets to NC Zoo
And much more…….

Concessions will be available

Vendor tables are also available. If you are a vendor and would like to have a table, contact Jason Overby at (252) 425-7387

The Quarter Auction Fundraiser supports the Tar River Elementary School Literacy Program.

(This is not a paid advertisement)

Franklin County Sheriff

Two Raleigh Residents Arrested for Breaking/Entering in Franklin Co.

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-Press Release, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Terry M. Wright – Chief of Staff

On May 23, 2018, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Franklinton Police Department responded to a Breaking and Entering on Short Mans Way, Franklinton NC. The two agencies along with Probation and Parole established a perimeter and eventually Alexander Malik Morris and Steven Martin Cannady were taken into custody.

Alexander Malik Morris, of Guard Hill Drive in Raleigh, was charged with the following: one (1) count of Break and/or Enter a Residence, one (1) count of Possession of Burglary Tools and one (1) count of Injury to Real Property. Alexander Malik Morris was also served on a warrant for two (2) counts of Discharge Weapon into Occupied Property and one (1) count of Felony Conspiracy. 

Steven Martin Cannady

Alexander Malik Morris

Steven Martin Cannady, of Missionary Ridge Drive in Raleigh, was charged with the following: one (1) count of Break and/or Enter a Residence, one (1) count of Possession of Burglary Tools and one (1) count of Injury to Real Property. Steven Martin Cannady was also served with one outstanding warrant for Assault on a Female.

Alexander Malik Morris is currently being held in the Franklin County Detention Center under an $80,000.00 secured bond.

Steven Martin Cannady is currently being held in the Franklin County Detention Center under a $55,000.00 secured bond.

This matter remains under investigation and no further information will be released at this time. If anyone should have any additional information pertaining to this investigation, please call Detective Nick Kapl at 919-340-4344.

VGCC Department Chair McGrady Recognized for National Faculty Award

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College honored Steve McGrady, chair of the college’s Science Department and an instructor, for his recent receipt of the inaugural Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty recognition by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

In a session with the VGCC Board of Trustees on Monday, May 21, Dr. Stelfanie Williams, the college president, recognized the long-time member of the college faculty for the honor.

“This great honor reflects your long-term commitment to academic excellence, teaching and learning, and student success at Vance-Granville Community College as a faculty member,” Dr. Williams said. “Your dedication has been recognized at the national level.”

McGrady, who is a resident of Durham, was named last fall as the VGCC Faculty Member of the Year for 2017-2018, one of three of the college’s Glen Raven Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards. Glen Raven Inc., the manufacturer with a site in Norlina, is a longtime VGCC supporter and partner.

Above: Dr. Stelfanie Williams, VGCC president, left, presents a congratulatory letter to Steve McGrady, honoring the Science Department chair for his Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty recognition by the American Association of Community Colleges. (VGCC photo)

McGrady, a full-time VGCC instructor since 1990 and leader of the Science department since 1992, is a graduate of Wake Forest University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree, and of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his master’s degree in biology. He teaches courses in biology, chemistry and geology for Vance-Granville. Prior to joining the faculty at VGCC, he taught at Richmond Community College in Hamlet, N.C.

McGrady was the recipient of the VGCC President’s Leadership Award in 2006 after helping to lead a “Global Studies” initiative that took a group of faculty and students on an educational trip to Costa Rica.

McGrady and now-retired instructor Button Brady coordinated the VGCC Science Camp for middle school students from its inception in 2011, and he has overseen the camp on his own for the last two summers. This year’s camp is scheduled for June 11-15 on the Main Campus.

He served as co-chair of the VGCC Endowment Fund Faculty & Staff Drive from 2010 through 2012 and is a graduate of the VGCC Leadership Institute of 2005-06. McGrady has been involved in the college’s Male Mentoring program as a mentor and has served as chair of the college’s Academic Affairs Committee.

The AACC is the primary advocacy organization for the nation’s community colleges, representing nearly 1,200 two-year, associate degree-granting institutions and more than 12 million students. The award received by McGrady is named in honor of former AACC President and CEO Dale P. Parnell. The designation was established to recognize individuals making a difference in the classroom. The AACC said recipients are chosen for demonstrating passion for students and the classroom; showing a willingness to support students, inside and outside of the classroom; participation in college committees; and going above and beyond what is required to ensure that students are successful in their academic endeavors.

VGCC Trustees Expand Pharmacy Tech Programs with Certificates

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College’s Board of Trustees approved the addition of new certificates in the Pharmacy Technology curriculum program and the College and Career Promise (CCP) Pathways at the bimonthly meeting on the college’s Main Campus on Monday, May 21.

The Pharmacy Technology certificates, which will be available this fall, expand opportunities in a program that already offers an associate’s degree and a diploma providing qualified students with the skills and knowledge needed to practice in a variety of pharmacy settings. The suggested course sequence for the 13-hour certificate program, which can be completed in one semester, offers courses in Introduction to Pharmacy, Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy Calculations (including a lab), and Trends in Pharmacy.

Certificate coursework applies towards completion of a diploma or an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. The CCP Pathway offers qualified high school students the opportunity to earn college credit for free while enrolled in high school.

Above: Trustee Board Chair Danny Wright, left, and VGCC President Dr. Stelfanie Williams, right, present a plaque to Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor of Louisburg, honoring her for her service as Student Trustee for the Board of Trustees in 2017-2018. Taylor, who graduated this year from both the Franklin County Early College High School and VGCC, was president of the VGCC Student Government Association. She plans to continue her education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this fall. (VGCC photo)

Graduates of the Pharmacy Technology curriculum are eligible for employment in hospitals, nursing homes, private and chain drug stores, research laboratories, wholesale drug companies, pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and pharmacy benefit management call centers. Graduates are also prepared to take the National Certification Examination developed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). VGCC’s program has also become an Advocate Educator through the PTCB Educator Program.

The action came after a recommendation from the trustees’ Curriculum Committee, chaired by Trustee Barbara Cates Harris. In other action from the committee, the trustees voted to close a curriculum certificate program in Sustainable Electrical Energies, effective in the fall, because current trends in the workforce no longer support the demand for the certificate. Upon committee recommendation, too, the board approved the offering of an Occupational Extension course in Food Service Management to Captive/Co-opted Groups at Polk Correctional Institution in Butner.

Capital Projects

In an update on the college’s Capital Projects, Trustee Donald C. Seifert, Sr., noted that the structural renovation and restoration of masonry at the Main Campus will be placed out for bid this summer after the competition of the final assessment fieldwork.

The bidding process for fire alarm replacement work on the Main Campus has been delayed up to two months by reviews in the State Construction Office, he said.

In addition, he noted that design development and construction documents are scheduled to be completed later this month for renovations to Building 10, with bids going out in June, and Welding Laboratory renovations at the Franklin Campus have been inspected and accepted after being completed earlier this spring.

Quality Enhancement Plan

Jeffrey Allen, dean of enrollment and outreach for VGCC, gave the board an update on the college’s Quality Enhancement Program, designed to streamline the college’s advising process with more emphasis on student success.

Labeled as “Advising in 3D — Dream, Design and Discover,” the QEP has three goals: (1) Students will develop a rapport/relationship with an advisor; (2) Students will know the steps to completion of their academic and career goals; and (3) Students will become responsible, independent and empowered for their education.

Among the various steps being taken to meet those goals, advising and orientation are now mandatory; academic and career planning courses require students to identify their programs of study, review courses completed, and plan semester-by-semester for completing course requirements for graduation; and an emphasis is being placed on career services, the Academic Skills Center, financial aid and other resources to help ensure student success.

“We are pleased with the progress we’ve made for our students through the QEP,” noted Dr. Stelfanie Williams, president of VGCC, “and we see many opportunities for student success going forward.”

SGA President

The board recognized the Student Government Association president, Sovanny “Sophie” Taylor, who finished her term as a Student Trustee.

Taylor, who is a graduate of Franklin County Early College High School as well as Vance-Granville Community College, said that she found her academic experience at VGCC “refreshing” because of the support and care demonstrated by staff and faculty.

Taylor will enter Honors College at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a junior this fall, she told the board. She plans to study molecular genetics.

Other Action

In other action:

  • The trustees approved student, patron, child care and facility rental fees for the 2018-2019 academic year, recommended by the Budget Committee, chaired by Trustee Abdul Rasheed.
  • Trustee Sara Wester, chair of the Personnel Committee, reported on new employees, retirements and resignations.
  • The Investment Committee, chaired by Trustee L. Opie Frazier, Jr., reported on growth in the college’s investments.
  • Board Chair Danny Wright appointed a nominating committee composed of Frazier, Wester and Harris to prepare a list of nominees for officers for the Board of Trustees for 2018-2019.

The next meeting of the VGCC Board of Trustees will be held on Monday, July 16, at the Main Campus.