VGCC Logo

Reminder: VGCC to Hold Open Air Job Fairs This Week

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

-Information courtesy Tanya Weary, VGCC Dean of Business & Industry Solutions

Open air job fairs featuring hundreds of local positions will be held at all four Vance-Granville Community College locations this week. These events are in response to the dramatic need for employees across the service area.

The job fair begins at the college’s Warren County Campus (Warrenton) on November 17, 2020; at Main Campus (near Henderson) on November 18, 2020; at South Campus (Creedmoor/Butner) on November 19, 2020; and at the Franklin County Campus (Louisburg) on November 20, 2020.

VGCC’s Career Services, Small Business Center and Customized Training have teamed up to offer the first open air job fair event in our service area. Employers from across Granville, Franklin, Vance and Warren Counties will be there seeking to fill jobs from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“We’re really just trying to connect the businesses and employers with our job seekers throughout the counties that we serve. There are a lot of jobs and we are sure we can help you find one,” said Tanya Weary, VGCC Dean of Business & Industry Solutions.

This event is free and open to the public. Participants will meet employers from across the service area who will be hiring and eager to fill jobs with competitive wages, benefits and more. Job fair seekers will also be able to gain tips on getting the job they are after.

“We are excited to offer job fairs at each of our campuses,” Linda Fletcher, Director of Career Services said.  She continued, “The college is committed to developing strong communities and improving the quality of life for our community members. Jobs are the key. Local employers have jobs and need good candidates ready to work. We welcome both VGCC students and community job-seekers at each of our open air job fairs.”

Attendees are expected to adhere to social distancing guidelines, and capacity levels will be observed and mandated throughout each event. Job fair participants are reminded that health screenings and masks or face coverings are required for everyone while on campus.

VGCC Career Services encourages job seekers to consider adding to their skill set through additional training and/or education. We can help with career exploration for career-changers or determining the next step in developing an established career. In addition, our students receive assistance with resumes, interview preparation, and job search skills. Take the next step with us toward a better future.

For more information, visit: https://www.vgcc.edu/career-fair/, or contact Linda Fletcher, Director of Career Services, at (252) 738-3466 or fletcherl@vgcc.edu.

NC State Board of Elections

NC Counties Finalize Election Results; Several Steps Remain in Process

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-Press Release, NC State Board of Elections

About 10 county boards of elections in North Carolina are meeting early this week to finalize their 2020 election results, with a few counties correcting discrepancies in election results discovered during the post-election canvass process.

Results reported on election night are always unofficial. Canvass is the official process of determining the votes have been counted and tabulated correctly, resulting in the authentication of the official results.

Most county boards of elections certified their results late last week. However, a few are still working with State Board staff to ensure all votes are counted properly before they complete their canvass. Counties may delay canvass for a “reasonable time” if all aspects of the canvass process were not completed on Friday.

As counties continue their canvass processes, unofficial results will be updated accordingly on the State Board’s Election Results Dashboard.

“The canvass process exists to ensure votes are counted accurately,” said Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the State Board of Elections. “This is the process working as it is supposed to work. This election will not be certified until we are certain the results are accurate.”

Please see below for information about counties that will meet early this week to complete their canvasses.

Recounts

After all counties have completed their canvasses, any mandatory recounts would be conducted by county boards of elections. For statewide contests, the vote difference must be 10,000 votes or fewer for a candidate who is the runner-up to demand a recount. For non-statewide contests, the difference between the candidates must be 1 percent or less of the total votes cast in the contest.

Requests for recounts in most single-county contests are due by 5 p.m. Monday. Such requests in statewide and multicounty contests are due by noon Tuesday.

If a recount is demanded, the State Board of Elections office would issue a schedule, and the counties would conduct recounts individually during open meetings.

Counties would re-run every ballot through a tabulator and the results of the recount would be compared to the results of the original count.

State Board Audits

Prior to state canvass scheduled for November 24, the State Board conducts various audits of election results, including the “Voter History Audit.” Here’s how that audit is conducted:

When a voter checks in to vote at an early voting site or an Election Day polling place, or submits an absentee by-mail ballot, the voter receives a voter history record for that election.

When ballots are run through tabulators, tabulation software provides election return data that identifies the number of ballots cast in that election.

The “Voter History Audit” compares the “voter history” number with the number of physical ballots cast in that election. These two numbers should generally match, but may be slightly off for valid reasons, such as if a voter checks in at a polling place and then decides not to vote.

This audit is designed to identify certain problems or fraud, such as ballot stuffing, erroneous manual entries, user error, or certain ballot coding issues.

The State Board conducts additional audits summarized here: https://www.ncsbe.gov/about-elections/election-security/post-election-p…

The State Board will not certify results unless evidence from the audits show the results are accurate.

State Canvass

The State Board of Elections will certify statewide results for all federal, statewide, multi-district and judicial contests at a public meeting held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24. Results in each contest are not considered official until certified by the State Board. After state canvass, the board of elections with jurisdiction over each contest will issue a certificate of election to the prevailing candidate.

Electoral College

The Electoral College meets at noon on December 14. Electors’ names will be announced when the Secretary of State receives certified election results from the State Board and notifies the governor of the electors’ names. For more about the Electoral College, go here: https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/electoral_college.

Granville County Logo

Granville Co. Board of Commissioners to Meet Nov. 16

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-Information courtesy the County of Granville

The Granville County Board of Commissioners will meet remotely by Zoom conference call on Monday, November 16, 2020, at 7 p.m. for the regularly scheduled meeting.

Public comments for the 5310 Transportation Grant and public comments for other matters will be accepted in written format and must be received by Monday, November 16 at 12 p.m. by mail to P.O. Box 906, Oxford, NC 27565 or email to grancomrs@granvillecounty.org

Please contact the County Administration Office at (919) 693-5240 to receive the registration link.

To view Granville Co. Board of Commissioner meeting agendas and minutes, click here.

Henderson Christmas Parade

Majority of Local Christmas Parades Canceled; Oxford’s Still A Go

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

The Vance County Arts Council has announced that the Downtown Henderson Drive-Thru Christmas Parade originally scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 2020, has been canceled.

Likewise, the Town of Warrenton has also canceled its annual parade.

The Town of Louisburg has also announced that the Louisburg Christmas Parade originally scheduled for Sunday, December 6 has been canceled “due to COVID-19 concerns and the inability for the public and participants to social distance.”

As of the time of this posting, Oxford still plans to hold a “Reverse” Drive-Thru Christmas Parade on Friday, December 4.

In this “reverse” parade to be held downtown, floats, dancers and cars are stationary and spaced apart. Spectators can drive-through and enjoy from the safety of their vehicles. Candy will not be distributed.

The Oxford parade line up will start at 5 p.m., with the parade beginning at 6 p.m.

The public is reminded that plans change quickly with new COVID updates released daily. Please check WIZS and the respective organization’s webpage and social media sites for updates on holiday events.

Granville County Public Schools

Granville Board of Education to Hold Special Called Meeting Nov. 16

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-Press Release, Granville County Public Schools

The Granville County Board of Education will hold a special called meeting on Monday, November 16, 2020, at 4:30 p.m., at the Mary Potter Center of Education, 200 Taylor Street, Oxford.

The purpose of the meeting will be to hold a closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(1), (3), and (5) to consult with the Board’s attorney, preserve the attorney-client privilege and consider personnel information that is confidential under G.S. 115C-321.

Following the closed session, the Board may take action in an open session as needed to implement any decisions made during the closed session.

Oxford Tree Lighting

Town Talk 11/12/20: Granville Tourism Announces Holiday Events

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Angela Allen, director of the Granville County Tourism Development Authority, appeared on WIZS’ Town Talk Thursday at 11 a.m. Allen discussed upcoming holiday events in Granville County.

“In the midst of this challenging year of 2020, we still want to be able to open it up where people can have their holiday traditions,” said Allen. “We know that the holidays are a time for family and friends. Here in Granville County, we want to make sure that we are maintaining the well-being and the health of those around us, but we still celebrate the holiday season.”

Zoom Call With Santa ~ November 21

Join Santa on a special Zoom call Saturday, November 21 at 3 p.m. live from the North Pole. All participants will take part in Santa’s Elf Academy and receive a digital Elf-In-Training completion certificate.

Complete this google form (click here), and a link for the call will be sent to you on the day of the event.

Turkey Trot ~ November 26

This year’s 2.4 mile Turkey Trot has been modified but NOT canceled. Plan your trot, walk or run with neighbors, friends or family at your favorite location and please tag ACIM on Facebook @AreaCongreationsInMinistry.

A food donation box will be set up at Main Street Fitness, 110 Main Street, Oxford on Thanksgiving Day from 9 -10:30 a.m. to collect food or monetary donations.

Oxford Virtual Tree Lighting ~ December 3

Oxford’s Virtual Tree Lighting will be held on December 3. Details will be provided closer to the date. Please check https://www.facebook.com/VisitOxfordNC/ for updates.

Oxford’s “Reverse” Drive-Thru Christmas Parade ~ December 4

In this “reverse” parade to be held December 4 in downtown Oxford, floats, dancers and cars are stationary and spaced apart. Those wishing to soak up the seasonal merriment can simply drive-through and enjoy from the safety of their vehicles.

This year’s theme is “Oxford’s Whoville Holiday.” Churches, businesses and non-profits wishing to participate are asked to decorate accordingly. Spaces will be measured at 60 – 80 feet apart, allowing for social distancing. Candy will not be distributed.

The parade line up will start at 5 p.m. with the parade beginning at 6 p.m.

Butner Christmas in the Park Drive-Thru ~ December 4

Load up the kiddies with their letters to Santa and participate in a guided drive-thru at Butner’s Gazebo Park for a celebration of Christmas music and lights. Visit Santa safely from your car, and drop off the kids’ letters.

The event, sponsored by the Butner Community Association, will be held from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on December 4.

Please note that the annual Butner Christmas Parade is canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Carlee Farm Marketplace ~ December 5

Come out and show your support for 20 different local vendors selling unique items just in time for the holidays. Stem Fire & EMS will be selling hot dogs and hamburgers.

A holiday setup for family pictures you can take yourself will be available. Social distancing and masks will be required.

Granville Little Theatre Presents “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” ~ December 6-15

Granville Little Theatre’s Dinner and a Show series presents “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play December 6-15.

This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve.

Please visit the Granville Little Theatre’s website www.granvillelittletheatre.net for additional information.

The Barn at Vino ~ December 6

Each child will get to decorate Christmas cookies, make an ornament, enjoy hot cocoa and write a letter to Santa.

K.G. Photography will be there to capture pictures of your family with Santa & Mrs. Claus. (Digital images included in the price of admission).

COVID-19 guidelines for social distancing will be followed. Each family will have their own table. Masks are required when social distancing is unavailable.

Contactless ticket purchases are available online through Eventbrite (click here). Tickets will also be sold at the door, but purchasing tickets online gives you priority time slots.

“Back to Bethlehem” Drive-Thru Nativity ~ December 12-14

The Delrayno Baptist Church in Oxford will relive the miraculous events that proclaim the birth of Jesus Christ with a drive-thru, detailed recreation of the little town of Bethlehem. The drive-thru nativity will be open December 12, 13 and 14 from 6 until 8:30 p.m.

As you drive through, you will see the marketplace, various shops, people hustling about, the Inn that was full and angels announcing the birth of Jesus.

Contact Pastor Joe Don Cooper at (919) 691-9355 for more information.

For more information on upcoming events, please visit Granville County Tourism’s website at www.visitgranvillenc.com.

To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Granville County Public Schools

Granville Co. Board of Education Academic Subcommittee to Meet Nov. 13

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-Information courtesy Granville County Public Schools

The Granville County Board of Education Academic Subcommittee will meet virtually on Friday, November 13, 2020,
at 8:30 a.m. to discuss information related to academic performance.

For more information or a link to the virtual meeting, please contact Dr. Michael A. Myrick, Assistant Superintendent of
Curriculum and Instruction at myrickm@gcs.k12.nc.us or Mrs. Alston Shave at shavea@gcs.k12.nc.us.

Oxford Prep School

Town Talk 11/11/20: Donated Items Needed for Oxford Prep’s Senior Project

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

McKayla Boyd and Bryce Garrett, seniors at Oxford Preparatory School, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Boyd, of Oxford, and Garrett, of Bullock, discussed their senior project: collecting items for local families affected by abuse and domestic violence.

Partnering with Families Living Violence Free (FLVF) in Oxford, items collected will be distributed to families in need this holiday season.

Requested items include:

  • Toys for children ages 1-6 (new or used)
  • Adult and child hygiene products
  • Non-perishable food items (ramen, soups, breakfast items, snacks, canned food, etc.)
  • Throw blankets
  • Clothing items – size 2T to Adult (new only, please)

Donors are asked to sign up online at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4AACA72BA2FDC34-griffin

Donations may be dropped off at the front lobby of the school located at 6041 Landis Road in Oxford. Items will be sanitized before taken to FLVF for distribution.

Stating that Oxford Prep is big on students giving back to the community via service hours, Boyd said the senior class is happy to partner with FLVF for this drive. “I spent a lot of time looking for an organization that would let us do something to give back to our community,” said Boyd. “When I found FLVF, they were very excited to work with us.”

Garrett said his class is looking forward to providing supplies to those in need, and he hopes to see the drive become an annual event. “Our goal for our school is to keep this a tradition,” he said.

To hear the interview in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

NC State Board of Elections

Four Facts About the Vote-Counting Process in NC

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-Press Release, NC State Board of Elections

The State Board of Elections is releasing the following facts about the post-election vote-counting process in North Carolina, in part to address rapidly spreading misinformation. These processes are required by law.

  1. It’s the Law. The post-election “canvass” process occurs after every election. Canvass is the entire process of ensuring votes have been counted correctly and required audits have been completed, culminating in the certification of results during meetings of every county board of elections. By law, these meetings will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 13. Also pursuant to state law, the State Board of Elections will meet at 11 a.m. November 24 to finalize the results. N.C.G.S. § 163-182.5.
  2. All Eligible Ballots Must Be Counted. In 2020, county boards of elections must count absentee by-mail ballots postmarked on or before Election Day that arrive in the mail by 5 p.m. November 12. Ballots from military and overseas voters received by 5 p.m. November 12 will also be counted, as required by state law. N.C.G.S. § 163-258.12. During the post-election period, county boards also conduct research to determine whether to wholly or partially count provisional ballots. All eligible provisional ballots are counted during the canvass process. N.C.G.S. § 163-182.2. The post-election period ensures that the ballots of eligible voters will be counted as long as they meet statutory deadlines and comply with all other laws. This allows more eligible voters to lawfully exercise their right to vote.
  3. Results Must Be Audited. After each election, the State Board randomly selects two precincts in every county, where paper ballots must be counted by hand for the highest contest on the ballot – the presidential race in 2020 – and compared with the tabulated results. Called the “sample hand-to-eye count,” this audit recounts the ballots in the random precincts to ensure reliability of machine-tabulated results. Bipartisan teams at county boards of elections have been conducting these audits during the past week. The State Board of Elections conducts additional audits to verify the accuracy of the count. The results of all audits will be submitted to the State Board as part of the final certification of the election. For more information, see the Post-Election Procedures and Audits webpage.
  4. Elections Officials Do Not “Call” Elections. Many North Carolinians have contacted elections officials to ask why certain contests have been “called” for a particular candidate, while others have not. The state and county boards of elections have never – and will never – “call” or project a race for any candidate. Projections are made by media and/or candidates using unofficial results, typically based on the vote difference and the number of votes yet to be counted in a contest. In some cases, including the North Carolina governor’s race and North Carolina U.S. Senate race, the trailing candidates “conceded” when they realized they could not make up the vote differential with the ballots still uncounted. The State Board will certify final results on November 24. After that, the boards of elections will issue certificates of election to the prevailing candidates. N.C.G.S. § 163-182.15.
NC Governor Logo

NC Lowers Indoor Gathering Limit to 10 to Slow Spread of COVID-19

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-Press Release, Office of Governor Roy Cooper

Governor Roy Cooper announced today that North Carolina’s indoor mass gathering limit will be lowered to 10 people in an effort to drive down North Carolina’s key COVID-19 metrics. Executive Order 176 will go into effect on Friday, November 13 and will be in place through Friday, December 4, 2020.

“This reduction in our indoor gathering limit aims to slow the spread and bring down our numbers,” Governor Cooper said. “It also sends a serious signal to families, friends and neighbors across our state. Success in slowing the spread will help our businesses.”

As the weather gets colder, more people will be gathering indoors. Science has shown that indoor gatherings increase the risk of transmission of COVID-19, and this Executive Order seeks to limit indoor gatherings that could rapidly and dangerously spread the virus.

The Order does not change the reduced capacity limits for certain businesses that have already been laid out. For more on this, read the Frequently Asked Questions document.

Governor Cooper and NC DHHS Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen also underscored the need for people to wear a mask anytime they gather with people outside of their immediate household. As the holiday season approaches, NCDHHS released health guidance to help people celebrate as safely as possible without spreading the virus.

“Let’s keep our friends, family, and loved ones safe this holiday season. If you are going to travel or get together, plan ahead to reduce the risk to your family and friends,” said NCDHHS Secretary Cohen. “Remember, it’s not how well you know someone when it comes to wearing a mask. If they don’t live with you, get behind the mask.“

Dr. Cohen also provided an update on North Carolina’s data and trends.

Trajectory in COVID-Like Illness (CLI) Surveillance Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s syndromic surveillance trend for COVID-like illness is decreasing but still elevated.

Trajectory of Confirmed Cases Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory of cases is increasing.

Trajectory in Percent of Tests Returning Positive Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory in percent of tests returning positive is level but above 5 percent.

Trajectory in Hospitalizations Over 14 Days

  • North Carolina’s trajectory of hospitalizations is level but high.

In addition to these metrics, the state continues building capacity to adequately respond to an increase in virus spread in testing, tracing and prevention.

Testing

  • Testing capacity is high

Tracing Capability

  • The state is continuing to hire contact tracers to bolster the efforts of local health departments.
  • There have been almost 350,000 downloads of the exposure notification app, SlowCOVIDNC.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • North Carolina’s personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies are stable.

Mortgage, Utility and Rent Relief Program Expands

Also today, Governor Cooper announced that full-service restaurants are now eligible for assistance through the Mortgage, Utility and Rent Relief Program (MURR) administered by the NC Department of Commerce.

These businesses may apply for up to four months of rent or mortgage interest capped at $20,000 per location for up to two locations. Businesses can learn more and apply by visiting www.nccommerce.com/murr.