The Local Skinny! Bryan Cohn Accepts Nomination To Replace McRae In House District 32 Contest

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N.C. House District 32 Rep. Bryan Cohn is going to seek a second term after all.

Cohn said he is stepping back into the race for N.C. House District 32 following the unanimous vote of the HD32 Democratic Selection Committee, which met Saturday to select a replacement for Curtis McRae.

Although McRae won the Democratic primary in March, he announced a few weeks ago that he was withdrawing from the race to focus on personal health matters.

“That was a hard call, and I have nothing but respect for him,” Cohn said in a statement provided to WIZS by Angela Thornton, Vance County Democratic Party chairperson.

“I wish Curtis and his family well, and I ask that everyone respect his privacy as he takes care of what matters most right now.”

On the morning of Saturday June 20, the House District 32 Selection Committee met by Zoom. The committee, made up of two delegates from Granville County and two delegates from Vance County, voted unanimously to nominate Cohn as the Democratic candidate for the seat.

Cohn accepted the nomination.

“This seat is too important to leave uncontested,” Cohn said.

Cohn will face Republican Frank Sossamon, who previously held the seat before he was beaten by Cohn in 2024.

“House District 32 is a frontline district, and the work we started together in 2024 is not finished. I am stepping back in with the same energy I brought to this fight two years ago, and I am not letting up,” Cohn said.

Cohn said the campaign is already underway and will focus on protecting public schools, defending rural communities, strengthening local infrastructure, supporting working families, and making sure Granville and Vance counties continue to have a strong voice in Raleigh.

“We are already moving,” Cohn said. “This district knows what is at stake. We won this seat by organizing, showing up, and fighting for every vote. That is exactly what we are going to do again. Let’s get to work.”

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Vance-Granville Community College Receives $25,000 from Duke Energy for Regional Workforce Development

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— submitted by Courtney Cissel, VGCC Public Information Officer

Vance-Granville Community College is expanding its capacity to prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing and the energy sector thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation.

The grant is part of a broader $600,000 Duke Energy Foundation investment to strengthen North Carolina’s energy workforce. Through the effort, 20 community colleges across the state will receive resources to help develop the skilled workforce needed for the state’s continued growth and infrastructure investments.

The colleges will receive $25,000 each to support hands-on training, equipment, scholarships, and curriculum enhancements for programs connected to the energy ecosystem—from electrical systems and linework to welding, HVAC, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies. According to College officials, Vance-Granville will use the funding to purchase a piece of equipment that will be used across several programs at its Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology, which is currently under development.

“This funding enables the College to make significant investments in staying aligned with current industry partner standards in mechatronics, electronics, welding, and other advanced manufacturing programs,” noted VGCC President Dr. Rachel Desmarais. “The funding will also provide foundational equipment necessary to meet new local training needs in computer numerical control machining.”

From left: Tanya Weary, VGCC Foundation Executive Director; Beth Townsend, Duke Energy Government & Community Relations; Dr. Rachel Desmarais, VGCC President; and Fredesvinda Colindres, VGCC Grants Administrator.

The Bigger Picture

North Carolina is now home to more than 11 million residents and remains one of the fastest‑growing states in the nation. In 2025 alone, companies announced economic development projects generating more than 35,000 jobs and $24 billion in investments—much of it tied to new manufacturing facilities. That growth is driving rising energy demand and reinforcing the need for a well‑prepared, locally trained workforce.

“Investing in North Carolina’s community colleges is critical as our industry and state meet this incredible growth moment,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina President. “These programs are proven launchpads into meaningful, in‑demand careers—helping build the workforce that will power what’s next and support the infrastructure our customers rely on every day.”

In addition, the Duke Energy Foundation is investing $100,000 in two regional workforce partners to help expand access to high-demand training programs aligned with the energy sector. One of those partners is AdvanceNC, a regional coalition among community colleges, universities, and workforce boards focused on supplying skilled talent for Central North Carolina employers. Vance-Granville Community College has been a member of AdvanceNC since its 2023 inception.

TownTalk: Mental Health Resources Available To Farmers/Public

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Even under optimal conditions, farmers face daily challenges – mending fences, managing livestock, keeping gardens picked, maintaining tractors and equipment – and that’s just for starters.

But factor in extreme circumstances like persistent drought and higher-than-normal temps, and the additional stress can compound an already stressful lifestyle that can have serious implications on their mental health.

Vance County Cooperative Extension Agent Michael Ellington and Granville Vance Public Health clinical social worker Mary Constantino shared some sobering information about national suicide rates among farmers and what family members can do if they see concerning behaviors in their loved ones.

Ellington said it’s important to be aware of how stress impacts us – farmers and others, alike. It’s all about knowing what we can do and focusing on what we can control, he said on a recent TownTalk.

Constantino, GVPH Human Services Clinical Counselor Specialist, said the national data around suicide is about 14.4 deaths per 100,000. In North Carolina, that average is 14.1. But farmers, she said, have a higher rate per 100,000 than the average population – as much as 2 to 4 times the national average.

Ellington said he’s heard different people expressing feelings of desperation, that they can see no way forward, no way out.

“This is a problem happening right now,” Ellington said, “your family, your neighbors. It’s here.”

He wants to send the message that provides a lifeline to those in distress. “Whatever problems you’re facing,” there is a way out, a way forward.

“It’s really hard to talk about feelings and things that are stressful,” Constantino said.

When things aren’t going well, it’s human nature to blame ourselves, and she said it’s also natural to think that we should be able to handle the stressful situations without help.

It may be useful to change perspective from “I should be able to handle these feelings myself” to “gosh, maybe I do need some help trying to process through some of this,” she said.

Ellington said often, a farmer’s support system includes the very ones who are dependent on him or her.

“They probably are the folks they’re worried about letting down the most,” he said.

Constantino suggests having a daily “process check” when stress levels are high. The stress is acknowledged – now what to do about it?

Sometimes, it’s helpful to just ‘vent’ to someone. That can be enough, but not always. And it’s important to know what steps to take when venting hasn’t helped.

Ellington says there’s a difference between venting and problem-solving.

“Farmers are natural problem solvers,” he said.

“Venting is when we just need to put something out there, knowing that we can’t fix it.”

The weather. The drought. That tractor part that won’t be in stock for two weeks.

Sleeping more, drinking alcohol to excess, not wanting to socialize or even get out of the bed may be signs that there’s more going on than just reacting to normal stress.

GVPH has a variety of programs that address mental health and positive outcomes, Constantino said. Crisis lines in Vance and Granville counties can provide referrals to callers who reach out about services.

Of course, if you are fearful for the safety of your loved one, you can always call the national 988 suicide hotline.

“The best place to start is to say ‘Hey, we care about you,’” Constantino said.

GVPH can help manage medications and oversee people who need mental health support. In Granville County, there are therapists who go into schools; in Vance County, it’s mostly group-focused programs.

Clinicians all operate a little bit differently, Constantino explained, but clients often find relief when what they need is support and encouragement and strategic questions about how to move forward.

Call GVPH at 919.693.2141 or visit https://gvph.org/ webs to learn more.

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TownTalk: Bee Jubilee Coming to Granville Expo Center June 27

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The 10th annual Bee Jubilee coming up in Granville County on Saturday, June 27 is the perfect chance to ask all those questions that you’ve been wondering about: Does that beekeeper suit really protect you from stings? Exactly what is a varroa mite? Where can I get some mead?

Christi Henthorn, one of the event planners and organizers, can probably help answer those questions – and more.

The daylong Bee Jubilee will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Granville County Convention & Expo Center in Oxford with plenty of fun, food, info and more.

“We’ve grown so much,” Henthorn told WIZS. “It’s really awesome to think back and see the way we’ve added things and changed things and grown.” Like previous events, the 2026 Bee Jubilee features honey, arts, crafts, bee products and supplies, demonstrations, a live raffle, food trucks and a raffle for free honey for a year.

Late June in the Piedmont is most likely going to be warm, and Henthorn said this year, planners decided to move the sound stage to the northern end of the Expo Center to take advantage of shade provided by a nearby tree line.

Henthorn said the Bee Jubilee simply wouldn’t be possible without help from local beekeepers, who volunteer to put on this labor of love – which includes a fair amount of sweat, too, because, well, it’s June in the Piedmont.

A group of beekeepers is going to set up an ‘Ask the Beekeeper’ workshop for curious participants, she said, and will be available to answer questions from the comfort of their rocking chairs.

Another local bee expert is going to be available to educate the public about how to manage swarms of bees that find their way into unlikely places like buildings and homes.

Last year, people came from as far as several hours away to see what the Bee Jubilee was all about. Thanks to a partnership with the Granville Tourism Department, organizers got a grant for advertising that really paid off – attendance swelled from 2,500 to more than 4,000.

Whether you’re a real bee enthusiast or you just like honey, the Bee Jubilee has something for you, Henthorn said.

Check out the Bee Jubilee at https://granvillecobeekeepers.wildapricot.org/BEE-JUBILEE or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/beejubilee/.

Join the Granville Beekeepers Association, which meets on the first Thursday of the month. Visit https://granvillecobeekeepers.wildapricot.org/ to learn more.

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(This story was originally published June 8, 2026.)

The Local Skinny! Who Will Be The Democratic House 32 Candidate In November

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North Carolina House 32 Representative Bryan Cohn announced Wednesday his candidacy in hopes of appearing on the ballot in November, and Henderson Mayor Melissa Elliott re-confirmed her desire to run as well.

Both are seeking the ballot position, and others possibly, after the Democratic nominee, Curtis McRae, announced he would step away due to personal health matters.

“When Curtis made the difficult decision to step aside, I knew our community needed someone ready to step forward,” Cohn said. “While I had not planned to be a candidate this year, my commitment to the people of Granville and Vance counties has never changed,” he said in a press release.

Elliott told WIZS Thursday, for the second time, of her desire, and she said, “I submitted a letter. It’s the committee’s choice.”

Angela Thornton, the Democratic chairperson in Vance County, told WIZS Thursday the committee, composed of three Democratic Leaders from Granville County and two from Vance County, has not yet voted on the name they will send to the NC House Democratic Caucus.  Thornton said, “We are still waiting on paperwork to finalize our vote.  The committee is still meeting and following protocol to ensure all names are turned in for voting.”

On Wednesday, possibly around the same time Cohn issued his statement, the NC House Democratic Caucus issued its own statement in support of Cohn.  In part, that statement said the caucus “is proud to support Representative Bryan Cohn as the Democratic nominee for House District 32…”  The release spoke of his willingness to step forward and “ensures continuity of leadership and gives voters a candidate with the experience, relationships, and knowledge needed to be effective on day one.”

Once a name is chosen for the ballot, that name will appear in November’s election next to the Republican nominee, Frank Sossamon.

Whether the Democrat or the Republican wins, it will for a second election cycle have huge implications for the balance of power in Raleigh.

The name the local committee selects is the name that will appear on the ballot.  The local committee will tell the NC Dem House Caucus.

And, Thornton said, “An announcement from the house caucus will be made.”

Cohn told WIZS, “The official party nomination process has not happened yet.”

WIZS News has reached out to be informed of the ballot decision when it’s made and will provide and update when the information is received.

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The Local Skinny! Curtis McRae Ends House District 32 Campaign

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In light of Curtis McRae’s recent announcement that he is withdrawing from the House District 32 race, Vance and Granville County Democratic leaders are planning meetings this week to discuss possible replacements in the upcoming election.

“Recent personal health challenges have made it clear that I need to focus my time and energy on my health and my family,” McCrae said in a statement on Friday. “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this campaign, volunteered, donated, offered encouragement, or simply believed in our vision for the district.”

Vance County Democratic Party Chairperson Angela Thornton told WIZS News Monday that representatives from the two counties that comprise House District 32 will meet this week – most likely several times – to determine a replacement.

“The committee will meet and discuss appointing a replacement for (Mr. McRae),” Thornton said.

“It’s too late in the election cycle for a candidate to say ‘I want to run for this seat,’” Thornton explained. The committee – three representatives from Granville County and two representatives from Vance County – will appoint a replacement and will inform the House Caucus of its decision before an announcement is made.

The counties’ representatives have not met yet, but plan to this week, she said.

The seat is currently held by Democrat Bryan Cohn, who announced that he would not seek re-election. McRae defeated Melissa Elliott in the March primary. The Democratic replacement will face Republican challenger Frank Sossamon, who held the seat before being beaten by Cohn in the last election.

When asked Monday about whether he was reconsidering his decision, Cohn told WIZS Monday that he’s “evaluating that now.” Elliott told WIZS that she has “inquired about the process” of being considered by the local committee for consideration as a replacement candidate.

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Faith In Mental Health Initiative Plans Programs For Vance, Granville Churches

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The Faith in Mental Health initiative has two free events coming up in June to share information with churches about ways to support a faith-informed approach to mental health and addiction programs.

The “Faith-informed Responses to Youth Mental Health and Well Being” takes place on Monday, June 15 from 6 p.m.to 8 p.m. in the Maria Parham Health auditorium, 566 Ruin Creek Rd.

It’s open to any church in Vance and Granville counties, said Karl Johnson, program coordinator. There will be a youth panel and presentations from youth-oriented organization, as well as presentations from behavioral health specialists and community leaders.

Food will be provided.

The second event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23 at Cornerstone Christian Community Church in Oxford.  This event is an in-person webinar screening featuring Dr.Andrea Clements a professor of psychology at East Tennessee State University and author of The Trauma Informed Church: Walking With Others toward Flourishing.

The presentation will provide participants with a better understanding about caring for those with addiction and mental health struggles through a trauma-informed approach.

Cornerstone Christian Community Church is located at 3237 Knotts Grove Rd., Oxford.

Refreshments will be provided.

Contact Johnson at kjohnson@gvph.org or call him at 616.298.5626.

VGCC Foundation’s $5M ‘Building Futures Campaign’ Well On Its Way To Goal

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The Vance-Granville Community College Foundation’s $5 million fundraising campaign is well on its way, with more than $1 million raised since the campaign kicked off in March.

Building Futures: Empowering Students, Strengthening Communities is a 10-month campaign to raise money to address a funding deficit and ensure the successful completion of two transformational workforce training facilities, namely the Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology (CAMAT) and the Transportation Training & Technology Center (TTTC).

The $1,051,000 in philanthropic support demonstrates strong early momentum, donor confidence, and measurable community impact, according to school officials.

Building Futures represents a high-impact workforce development initiative, advancing economic mobility and career pathways for students across Vance, Granville, Franklin, and Warren counties.

While state funding and grants have supported both facilities, increased construction costs have created a funding shortfall. The Building Futures fundraising plan seeks to raise $5 million in transformational philanthropic investment to ensure both facilities open fully equipped with modern technology and industry-grade training equipment.

This investment directly supports student success, workforce readiness, and long-term regional economic growth, while strengthening the talent pipeline for high-demand industries.

The Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology will serve as a state-of-the-art training center designed to prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers in welding, mechatronics, electrical systems, and HVAC.

This facility will expand access to quality jobs, industry-recognized credentials, and upward economic mobility, while supporting employers seeking a highly skilled workforce.

The Transportation Training & Technology Center will expand and modernize instruction in CDL-A and B, heavy equipment operations, and diesel and heavy equipment mechanics.

This facility addresses critical workforce shortages while providing hands-on, career-connected learning opportunities that lead directly to employment and family-sustaining wages.

Together, these two facilities represent a transformative investment in community impact, workforce innovation, and economic development. By aligning education with industry demand, VGCC is advancing scalable workforce solutions, employer partnerships, and student-centered outcomes that strengthen communities and regional competitiveness.

The Building Futures initiative reflects a commitment to evidence-based impact, measurable outcomes, and expanding opportunity at scale—key priorities for national philanthropic leaders investing in systemic change.

Individuals, families, corporations, and philanthropic organizations are invited to participate in the Building Futures initiative through a variety of major gift and naming opportunities. Donors may choose to name classrooms, labs, and more.

For more information about supporting workforce training, transformational giving opportunities, philanthropic partnerships, or community impact investments, please contact the VGCC Foundation at foundation@vgcc.edu or 252.738.3264 or visit www.vgcc.edu/building-futures.

Franklin County Hosts 5-County Beef Tour On June 12

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Franklin County is hosting the 2026 5-County BEEF Tour on Tuesday, June 16. Participants will carpool to three innovative beef cattle farms, both large and small, that are participating in the Southeastern US Regenerative Agriculture Project, according to information from Matthew Place of the Franklin County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension.

There will be lots of networking, but also use of new technology for the cattle producer, demonstrations (grazing forages, rainfall simulator), and expert insights designed to help your farm thrive.

Participants will hear about the latest in agricultural tech and management strategies, including:

  • Nutritional Efficiency: Learn how to maximize your herd’s performance while managing costs. Grazing efficiency using the “grazing forage stick”, one free per family.
  • Forage & Drones: See how drone technology is changing the game for pasture management, heat checks, etc. See a live demonstration using the forage rainfall simulator.
  • Virtual Fencing: Explore the future of grazing without the wire.
  • Trade Show during lunch: new Hay Equipment, Seed companies, “No Fence” company, Farm Conservation and more.
  • Lunch speaker: Regenerative Agriculture and Programs Available.

Registration is required and the $30 fee includes lunch. The deadline to register is Friday, June 12.
Register at go.ncsu.edu/2026-5-county-beef-tour

For more information, contact Franklin County Center, 919.496.3344, Agricultural Extension Agent Martha Mobley or the Sampson County Center, 910.592.7161, Agricultural Extension Agent Paul Gonzalez.

The link to the tour brochure is Brochure & Tour Map.

 

 

 

TownTalk: Granville County Tourism Heating Things Up In June

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With summer just around the corner, Granville County’s calendar of events is heating up with a variety of programs, events and exhibits from Butner to Oxford sure to satisfy everyone’s interests.

Granville’s Tourism Director Angela Allen has a whole list of activities for folks to take part in most any time – summer in Granville County, she said, sort of unfolds – there’s something to do just about all the time.

Looking for an easy way to wind down after work with family and friends? Head to downtown Oxford on Thursday evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in June for Quittin’ Time. Slow down for a minute and stroll downtown, listening to live music, visiting local retail shops and enjoying small plate and specialty beverages from participating restaurants.

Or head down to Creedmoor’s Cedar Creek Gallery any ol’ time to catch the National Teapot Show, which comes every three years to the art gallery/retail space in southern Granville County. The exhibit features teapots created by artisans and craftspeople from all over, from the functional to the sublime.

Find some fresh produce, local meats and more at the Oxford Armory Farmer’s Market in downtown Oxford on Saturday mornings.

That’s just a sample of what’s available across Granville County this season, and Allen has a whole other list of special events that you’ll surely want to take in.

  • Butner Summer Festival this weekend, June 5-6. There’s a barbecued chicken cookoff, live music, vendors, kids’ activities and more.
  • Juneteenth Freedom Day – in Creedmoor on Friday, June 19
  • Juneteenth Freedom Day – Oxford on Saturday, June 20
  • Bee Jubilee and Food Truck Rodeo – Saturday, June 27 at the Granville County Expo and Convention Center on Highway 15 just south of Oxford

See a complete listing of events taking place in Granville County at www.visitgranvillenc.com

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(The text and audio are not a paid ad. Granville Tourism is, however, an advertising client of WIZS.com.)