The Hoppers Return to Henderson

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HENDERSON, N.C. (January 18, 2017)—Following the release of their new album “Life is Good” and back by popular demand, the legendary Gospel music group The Hoppers will grace the stage of McGregor Hall Performing Arts and Learning Center in Henderson, N.C., for their second concert there on Saturday, January 28th at 7p.m.

Known as “America’s Favorite Family of Gospel Music,” the multi-award winning group from Madison, N.C., have been singing to global audiences for over 55 years with appearances ranging from presidential religious inaugural ceremonies and New York’s Carnegie Hall to singing conventions and church platforms. Their unique blend of harmonies and song choices have landed them on top of the Billboard and Singing News charts and featured on Gospel music showcases such as The Gaither Homecoming videos and tours.

The Hoppers are comprised of family members Claude and Connie, sons Mike and Dean and his wife, Kim, and their daughter Karlye. A cancer survivor, Connie has been honored with numerous awards, including being inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame. Sons Dean and Mike have continued the family legacy with their musical talents and business abilities; and Kim, Dean’s wife, hails from her own nationally acclaimed musical family, The Greenes.

The Hoppers will be joined by two local opening acts: Unashamed and Lynn Cooper. Unashamed, a Southern Gospel Quartet from Henderson, N.C., are comprised of Bill Wheeler (bass), Chris Jarrell (baritone), Scott Brantley (lead) and Cliff Reavis (tenor). From a Country/Bluegrass sound to more progressive Southern Gospel, the quartet offers something pleasing for everyone.

Lynn Cooper is a rising Gospel/Christian recording artist from Durham County, N.C., who now resides in Granville County, N.C., with her family. This past December (2016), Lynn released her first Christian album titled “A Person From The Pew,” which was recorded and produced by three-time Grammy Award recipient Tre Corley of Oak Tree Studios in Hendersonville, Tenn. Along with her music ministry, Lynn and her husband, Joe Don, produce “House of Fate Ministries,” a faith-based performance held at Tungsten Baptist Church in Henderson, N.C.

For more information on the concert, visit www.McGregorHall.org, (252) 598-0662 or visit the box office at 201 Breckenridge Street in downtown Henderson.

 

For More Information About McGregor Hall, Contact:

Tommy Deadwyler, Executive Director

McGregor Hall Performing Arts & Learning Center

201 Breckenridge St., Henderson, NC  27536

(252) 598-0662

tommydeadwyler@mcgregorhall.org

Red Cross critically needs donors after winter weather adds to severe blood shortage

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RALEIGH, N.C. (Jan. 18, 2017) – Following several rounds of severe winter weather in many parts of the country, the American Red Cross urges eligible blood and platelet donors to help restock its shelves to overcome a shortage.

Since Dec. 1, about 300 blood drives across 27 states have been forced to cancel due to inclement winter weather, resulting in more than 10,500 blood and platelet donations going uncollected. Despite the weather, hospital patients still rely on transfusions.

Blood donor Jim Taylor knows how it feels to have a loved one waiting for a transfusion. His son Aaron was born with a rare liver condition. In the short two months of his life, he received 115 blood products. Taylor said each transfusion gave his family more time with Aaron, so he encourages others to give.

“When the Red Cross says there is a shortage, they are not exaggerating,” said Taylor. “I now know from experience that what they are saying is somewhere there is a father waiting on the donation that will save his son’s life. When the Red Cross asks for help, what that means is a new dad is praying for a miracle.”

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to save time when donating.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Franklin

Franklinton

1/28/2017: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Franklinton Baptist Church, 102 West Mason St.

Granville

Creedmoor

1/27/2017: 2:30 p.m. – 7 p.m., Creedmoor United Methodist Church, 214 Park Avenue

Oxford

2/10/2017: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Granville County Shrine Club, 706 Roxboro Road

Stem

2/7/2017: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Granville Central High School, 2043 Sanders Rd

Person

Roxboro

1/26/2017: 1:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., National Guard Armory, 605 Burlington Rd

1/29/2017: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., Theresa Baptist, 3919 Chublake Rd

2/10/2017: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Roxboro Police Department, 109 Lamar St.

Vance

Henderson

1/28/2017: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., St. James Catholic Church, 3275 US 158 Bypass

2/14/2017: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Vance Granville Community College, 200 Community College Road

Warren

Norlina

1/25/2017: 2 p.m. – 7 p.m., St. Pauls Lutheran Church, 438 Ridgeway Drewry Road

How to help

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood donors can now save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

 

(Press Release)

Granville Crime Stoppers Looking for Help with Incidents in Oxford

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TO: News Media

FROM: Granville County Crime Stoppers

DATE: January 17th, 2017

SUBJECT: Breaking and Entering/Burglary/Larceny/Vandalism

On Friday, December 30th, 2016 between the hours of 1:30pm and 3:40pm an unknown person or persons unlawfully went upon private property located off Breezing Lane, Oxford, NC and forced entry of a residence, which caused criminal property damage.

On Friday, December 30th, 2016 at approximately 3:00pm an unknown person or persons unlawfully went upon private property off Clear Springs Road, Oxford, NC and forced entry of a residence, which caused criminal property damage and unlawfully removed one 18” Poulan chainsaw, one Poulan gas powered hedge trimmer, one Stanley 12-14 volt drill and impact driver set and one DeWalt tool bag with an 18 volt drill impact driver set.

On Saturday, January 14th, 2017 at approximately 2:00 pm an unknown person or persons unlawfully went upon private property off Squire Lane, Oxford, NC and forced entry of a residence, which caused criminal damage to property and unlawfully removed one old model .22 caliber revolver handgun, one 12 gauge single barrel shotgun, one .32 caliber handgun, one bone collector cross bow, 600 rounds of .22 caliber bullets, 500 .32 caliber bullets, one air wrench in a case and one whole frozen ribeye loin.

Sometime between Saturday, January 14, 2017 during late evening hours and Sunday, January 15th, 2017 mid-morning hours an unknown person or persons went upon several private properties off Hight Road located in Oxford, NC and caused criminal property damage in plowing yards with a vehicle.

If you have information concerning these incidents, please contact the Granville County Sheriff’s Office at 919-693-3213 or call Crime Stoppers 919-693-3100.

THE GRANVILLE COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS HAS AUTHORIZED THE PAYMENT OF A REWARD OF UP TO $1,000 FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO THE ARREST/INDICTMENT(S) OF PERSON(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR THESE CRIMES.  IF YOU HAVE INFORMATION CONCERNING THESE CRIMES OR ANY OTHER SERIOUS CRIME(S) IN GRANVILLE COUNTY.  YOU ARE ASKED TO CALL THE GRANVILLE COUNTY CRIME STOPPERS IN OXFORD AT 919-693-3100.

Granville Superintendent Howard Announces Retirement

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Granville Superintendent Howard Announces Retirement

At the regularly scheduled January Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Dr. Dorwin L. Howard, Sr. informed Board members that he had made the decision to retire from employment with the State of North Carolina as Superintendent of Granville County Public Schools effective July 1, 2017.

Dr. Houlihan, Chairman of the Board of Education, offered his reaction to the news, “Speaking on behalf of the Board of Education, we were certainly saddened to hear about this announcement, but at the same time we congratulate him on the remarkable 37-year career he has had serving the students of Granville County Public Schools and we wish him and his family the very best in the future.”

Dr. Howard began his career in public education when he took his first job as an Agriculture Teacher at JF Webb High School in 1980.  Since then, he has served as a vice-principal, principal, Director of Secondary and Career and Technical Education, Assistant Superintendent of Operations, and as Superintendent.  All but six months of his career in public education has been spent serving the students of Granville County.

Dr. Howard shared the news with staff members across the district, offering  some thoughts about this important announcement, “I am appreciative of the opportunities which Granville County Public Schools has given me since I began teaching.  As I reflect on my experiences, I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to work with others throughout my career.  Each and every one of the employees has been, and I am sure will continue to be, instrumental in creating the type of school environment which fosters learning at the highest levels.”

Dr. Howard, a native of Granville County, and a graduate of JF Webb High School, attended NC A&T for his undergraduate degree, and NC State University for his master’s and doctoral degrees in Educational Administration.  He will have completed his third year serving as Superintendent upon retirement.

Dr. Howard concluded his remarks to staff by saying, “I trust that during my remaining five months with you as Superintendent, we all will continue to work together, giving our best for the good of all students throughout the district.  I pray that the future of the students of Granville County Public Schools will be bright.”

(Granville County Schools Press Release and Picture)

NC Supreme Court Justice Mike Morgan

NC Supreme Court Justice to speak at VGCC Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration

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NC Supreme Court Justice to speak at VGCC Martin Luther King Holiday Celebration

Vance-Granville Community College will hold a special program celebrating the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday on Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 11 a.m. in the Civic Center on VGCC’s Main Campus in Vance County. The celebration is free and open to the public, and is sponsored by the VGCC Male Mentoring Success Initiative (MMSI) and the Student Government Association.

The guest speaker for the event will be the newest Associate Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court, the Honorable Michael R. “Mike” Morgan. He was elected to the state’s highest court in November, after serving as an administrative law judge, a Wake County District Court judge and, most recently, a Superior Court judge. In addition, as a veteran faculty member of the National Judicial College located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Justice Morgan has taught and trained judges from all over the United States and its territories for the past 24 years.

A New Bern native, Justice Morgan is a graduate of Duke University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Sociology. He furthered his education at North Carolina Central University School of Law, distinguishing himself by serving as student body president in his final year of law school and earning his Juris Doctorate with Honors. Morgan later served as an adjunct professor for the NCCU School of Law.

The Jan. 18 program will also feature inspirational music presented by a choir of VGCC faculty, staff and students.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to a local charitable organization.

For more information, contact MMSI co-coordinators Anthony Pope at popea@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3395, or Michael Farmer at farmerm@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3234.

–VGCC Press Release–

(Cover photo of Judge Mike Morgan supplied to WIZS News in press release.  Credit for the photo apparently belonging to https://www.judgemikemorgan.com/)

VGCC Vanguards to play JV Tar Heels at Dean Dome

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For the second year in a row, the Vance-Granville Community College Vanguards men’s basketball team will soon travel to the Dean Smith Center in Chapel Hill to face the University of North Carolina Tar Heels junior varsity team.

The JV game is set for Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 7:30 p.m.

Henderson-based radio station WIZS 1450 AM will once again provide live coverage of the game starting at 7:15 p.m. Even for those outside the range of the radio station, the broadcast can be streamed online at wizs.com or on a smart phone with the free “TuneIn Radio” app. When WIZS covered the first contest between the two basketball programs in 2016, it was the first time in history that a UNC JV basketball game had been broadcast live on the radio.

The Vanguards compete in Region X of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II, which includes 11 two-year colleges in North Carolina and Virginia.

The UNC JV squad has several community college teams on its schedule this year, including one of VGCC’s Region X conference rivals, Wake Tech Community College.

Admission is free to the UNC JV game. For more information, call the Smith Center at (919) 962-2296.

Wednesday Closings / News 01-10-2017

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Wednesday Closings / News 1-10-17

Refresh Your Browser for the Latest!

Text or Email closings or announcements to 252-432-0774 or johncharles@wizs.com or call 252-492-3001

———

Update 5:40 p.m. Tuesday

  • Crosscreek Charter School closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Crossroad Christian School closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Davita Dialysis of Louisburg delayed until 7:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 11
  • Durham Public Schools closed Wednesday, January 11 (workday for teachers)
  • Franklin County Government Offices delayed until 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 11
  • Franklin County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Franklin County Superior Court postponed until Thursday, January 12 at 10:00 a.m.
  • Granville County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Granville County Government Offices delayed 1.5 hours Wednesday, January 11
  • Granville Vance District Health Department delayed until 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 11
  • Henderson Collegiate closed Wednesday, January 11 (workday for teachers)
  • Henderson Family YMCA delayed until 7:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 11
  • Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Department has cancelled all practices and games for Tuesday, January 10
  • Kerr-Vance Academy delayed 3 hours Wednesday, January 11
  • Mecklenburg County (VA) Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Oxford Preparatory School closed to students Wednesday, January 11 (optional workday for teachers)
  • Person County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Roxboro Community School closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Vance Charter School closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Vance County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Victory Christian School and Daycare will operate on a 2-hour delay Wednesday, January 11
  • Wake County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11
  • Warren County Schools closed Wednesday, January 11

 

Tuesday Closings / News 1-9-17

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Tuesday Closings / News 1-09-17

Refresh Your Browser for the Latest!

Text or Email closings or announcements to 252-432-0774 or johncharles@wizs.com or call 252-492-3001

———

Update 4:45 p.m. Monday

  • City of Henderson Offices delayed until 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10
  • City of Oxford Offices delayed until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10
  • Community Workforce Solutions of Henderson closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Crosscreek Charter School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Crossroads Christian School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Davita Dialysis of Louisburg delayed until 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10
  • Davita Dialysis of Vance County delayed 3 hours on Tuesday, January 10
  • Durham Public Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Falls Lake Academy closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Families Living Violence Free in Oxford, NC office will be closed today, Monday January 9, 2017. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you need help, please call our 24/7 crisis line 919-693-5700.
  • Franklin County District Court closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Franklin County Government Offices closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Franklin County Superior Court closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Franklin County Government Offices closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Franklin County Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Granville County Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Henderson Collegiate closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Henderson Family YMCA closed on Monday, January 9
  • Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks department – modified operating hours for Monday, January 9. The Aycock Rec Center is open until 6:00 p.m. The pool is closed.
  • Kerr-Vance Academy closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Louisburg College Check-in for new students starts at noon Tuesday. Returning students check in between 9-3 Wednesday. Classes begin Thursday.
  • Oxford Preparatory School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Person County Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Roxboro Community School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • The District Attorney’s offices in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren Counties will open at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10
  • Vance County Government Offices delayed until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10
  • Vance Charter School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Vance County Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Vance-Granville Community College evening classes cancelled on Monday, January 9
  • Vance-Granville Community College closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Victory Christian School closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Wake County Public Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Wake Technical Community College closed on Tuesday, January 10
  • Warren County Schools closed on Tuesday, January 10

 

Monday Closings / News 1-9-17

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All VGCC Campuses to close at 3:00 p.m. Today

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All campuses of Vance-Granville Community College will close today, Friday, Jan. 6, 2017, at 3 p.m. Evening and weekend activities are cancelled.

All campuses of VGCC will be closed on Saturday, Jan. 7, and Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017.

Thank you.

Andrew Beal, Public Information Officer

beala@vgcc.edu

(252) 738-3322