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Approval of New FY Budget on Henderson City Council’s June 8 Agenda

June 5, 2020/by WIZS Staff

THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

-Information courtesy Esther J. McCrackin, City Clerk, City of Henderson, NC

The Henderson City Council will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, June 8, 2020, at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 134 Rose Ave. in Henderson, NC.

Due to COVID-19 health mandates issued by Governor Cooper, the number of people allowed in Council Chambers will be limited for this meeting. Therefore, no citizens will be allowed in Council Chambers to observe or to make comments. However, members of the community are strongly encouraged to provide questions/comments for Council in writing as follows and to listen via Zoom:

Written Comments:

Email written comments to emccrackin@ci.henderson.nc.us
Emails received by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting will be read aloud at the meeting. Comments are limited to 3-minutes per person.

Zoom Instructions:

Time: Monday, June 8, 2020, 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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Agenda Items Include:

Consideration of Approval of Ordinance 20-21, Adoption of the FY 20-21 Budget and FY 20-21 Annual Fee Schedule. The proposed FY 2020-2021 budget is available for viewing in its entirety on the City of Henderson’s website, under the Finance Department tab (click here).

Consideration of Approval of Ordinance 20-22, Authorizing the Demolition of 224 Zene Street for Failure to Comply with Abandoned Structure Code.

Consideration of Approval of Ordinance 20-23, Amending Sanitation Ordinance Chapter 17, Section 17-3 Garbage and Trash Collection Policy.

Consideration of Approval of Resolution 20-40, Deferring Implementation of the Adopted Financial Model Developed by Stantec for the Kerr Lake Regional Water System.

Consideration of Approval of 1) Resolution 20-39, Accepting the 2020 BJA Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Grant and 2) Ordinance 20-24, FY 20 BA #30, Establishing a Budget for the BJA Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Grant.

Consideration of Approval of Tax Releases and Refunds from Vance County for the Month of April 2020.

Click here to view previous and current Henderson City Council meeting agendas and minutes.

Granville Spring Shred & Recycle Event Results Announced

June 5, 2020/by WIZS Staff

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-Press Release and photos, Granville County Government

Granville County’s Spring Shred and Recycle Event, held May 16, 2020, resulted in the collection and proper disposal of truckloads of scrap metal, electronics/televisions, shredded paper, hardback books, household batteries, outdated medications and other items.

Recycle and Sustainability Coordinator Teresa Baker reports the following totals:

* Shred Ace – 5,440 pounds of paper (2.72 tons)
* Metech Recycling – 4,725 pounds of electronics and TV’s
* RMR Recycling – 800 lbs of hardback books
* Dart Container – 1/2 enclosed trailer of polystyrene
* Granville County Sheriff’s Office – 185 pounds of medication and sharps
* Interstate Batteries – four (4) five-gallon buckets of various household batteries, four (4) lead-acid batteries, and a pallet of other batteries
* Granville County Humane Society – 1/2 truckbed full of various items
* GFL = 985 pounds of scrap metal and broken appliances

“I was very pleased with the turnout,” said Baker. “Thanks to all who participated, and to our volunteers who came out to make the day a success.”

Recycling events are held twice a year in Granville County and are scheduled in the spring and fall at the Expo and Convention Center. Details about the fall event will be announced soon.

For additional information or to learn more about local recycling efforts, please contact Baker at 919-725-1417 or at bakertd@gcs.k12.nc.us.

Dennis Jarvis, H-V Economic Development Director, Accepts Position in Jefferson Co., WV

June 5, 2020/by WIZS Staff

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-Press Release, Jefferson County Development Authority

The Jefferson County Development Authority announces that Dennis Jarvis II will be its new executive director, effective July 6, 2020. Jarvis will lead the organization as it develops a new strategic plan for its future direction and focus on economic development efforts in Jefferson County.

The Jefferson County Commission approved the employment of Jarvis today upon the recommendation of the Jefferson County Development Authority (JCDA) Board of Directors. Working with a national firm, JCDA board members began the search for a new executive director six months ago. After seeking input from community stakeholders regarding the type of candidate to pursue, Jarvis was selected following an extensive screening and interview process.

The Jefferson County Development Authority announces that Dennis Jarvis II, currently the director of the Henderson-Vance Economic Development Commission in North Carolina, will be its new executive director, effective July 6, 2020. (Photo courtesy JCDA)

Jarvis has 20 years of community and economic development experience in West Virginia, Virginia, and North Carolina. He started his career as the deputy director of the Logan County Development Authority in West Virginia and is currently the director of the Henderson-Vance Economic Development Commission in North Carolina.

His background with business development, job creation, small business and entrepreneurial assistance programs as well as marketing and grant writing will be instrumental to the JCDA, said Neil McLaughlin, president of the JCDA. “We were impressed with Dennis’s enthusiasm for this area, his motivation and creativity for the role in general, and his stalwart Mountaineer spirit.”

“We look forward to Dennis joining the county,” said Jefferson County Commission President Jane Tabb. “This position is key to increasing and diversifying the tax base for Jefferson County and strengthening the economic well-being of our county, our businesses, and our residents.”

Since being reconstituted a year ago, McLaughlin noted the JCDA Board has been working to move forward, increase transparency, and grow relationships with the community, business leaders, and regional and state officials. In January, the JCDA hired a consultant to facilitate the development of a new strategic plan to guide JCDA leaders in establishing the direction of the organization.

“We’re looking forward to having Dennis on board as we begin this new chapter of the JCDA,” McLaughlin said. “His engaging personality, pro-active attitude, and relationship-building skills will be assets as the JCDA incorporates community involvement into the strategic planning process in the next few months.”

Jarvis welcomes the opportunity to come back to West Virginia. “I am honored to return home to West Virginia and the eastern gateway to our great state,” he said. “The choice to relocate to Jefferson County was easy. This is a progressive, dynamic community with a strategic location and vibrant workforce.”

The JCDA board is focused, Jarvis noted. “I am pleased to be able to work with the JCDA board. They are an energetic, synergistic group,” he said. “Developing a new strategic plan for the organization with community input is exciting for the future of Jefferson County.”

Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, Jarvis received his bachelor’s degree from Bluefield State College and completed his master’s degree at Marshall University. He is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute at Oklahoma University, the Community Development Institute of West Virginia University, and is a Certified Business Retention Specialist with Business Retention International.

Jarvis and his wife, Lori Daniels Jarvis, are looking forward to returning to West Virginia with their cat, Virginia, and puppy, Buzzie. They enjoy traveling and riding their Indian Chieftain motorcycle. He is also a big fan of college football and likes podcasting.

During the next few months, the JCDA will be planning several events where community officials, business leaders, and local residents will have an opportunity to meet and get to know Jarvis.

The JCDA consists of a 15-member board of directors, including representatives from the county commission and each of the five municipalities within the county as well as industry, business, labor, education, and citizens representatives. The JCDA aims to promote, develop, and advance the economic development of Jefferson County, West Virginia.

For more information about the JCDA, visit www.jcda.net, email info@jcda.net, or call 304-728-3255.

Henderson JCPenney Among 154 Locations Closing Nationwide

June 5, 2020/by WIZS Staff

100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

-Information and featured image courtesy JCPenney

JCPenney has announced that 154 stores, including the Henderson Square location at 380 N. Cooper Dr. in Henderson, NC, will close permanently.

Other North Carolina JCPenney store closings include the locations at Biggs Park Shopping Center in Lumberton, Twin Rivers Mall in New Bern, North Hills Shopping Center in Raleigh and the Richmond Plaza in Rockingham.

JCPenney posted the following statement on the company blog:

Following a comprehensive review of our retail footprint, JCPenney made the difficult decision to close 154 stores. We will continue to operate the majority of our stores and our flagship store, jcp.com, to ensure our valued customers continue to have access to the products and brands they need and want.

Please click here for the full list of closing locations by state.

Gang Free, Inc. in Need of Volunteers to Deliver Food Boxes ASAP

June 4, 2020/by Kelly Bondurant

100.1 FM ~ 1450 AM ~ WIZS, Your Community Voice ~ Click to LISTEN LOCAL

Melissa Elliott, the founder of Gang Free, Inc. and Henderson City Council member, reached out to WIZS this afternoon to help spread the word of Gang Free Inc.’s free food delivery to those affected by COVID-19.

Stating she was currently “a bit overwhelmed” by the response of those in need, Elliott would appreciate any volunteer help she can get in delivering food boxes on behalf of the Gang Free organization.

This would also be a great opportunity for youth who are now out of school for the summer to get involved in helping others in their community.

According to Elliott, volunteers would leave food boxes in the resident’s vehicle or on the porch and would not go into the home.

“I think it is notable that the people are reaching out for assistance so that they don’t infect others in the community,” Elliott said.

For more information or to volunteer, please call Elliott at (252) 425-5220.

Noon News 06/04/20

June 4, 2020/by Larry

100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

WIZS, Henderson – Your Community Voice
Gang Free is delivering boxes of food to people
Filing for Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor begins Monday, June 8
Advance Academy announces graduation details
Vance Granville Community College announce enrollment gains

wizsradio · Noon News 06/04/20

Expected Above-Normal 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season Has Begun

June 4, 2020/by WIZS Staff

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-Press Release, Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations

With June 1 came the official beginning of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts until November 30.

Already, we have had an active season with three (3) named storms, and with the forecast projections for this year, we could definitely be in for a busy season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an above-normal season in terms of the number of storms.

The Atlantic Basin Seasonal Hurricane Forecast for 2020

Number of Named Storms: 13-19
Number of Hurricanes: 6-10
Number of Major Hurricanes (Category 3 or higher): 3-6

The Vance County Office of Emergency Operations wants to make sure that you and your family are prepared for whatever this season brings our way. The time to prepare is now, well out in front of peak hurricane season. Keep in
mind that communities and individuals are expected to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours (3 days) following the impact of a hurricane.

“If the impact is severe enough, it may potentially take outside help three (3) days to get here,” Short said. “By taking the time to gather up a few basic necessities now, you will enable your family to weather the storm and the aftermath until help can arrive.”

For more information about how you and your family can prepare for severe weather, visit the National Weather Service website: http://www.weather.gov/rah or visit our state site for emergency information including severe weather preparedness: https://readync.org/EN/Index.html

2020 Tropical Storm Names for the Atlantic Region

Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gonzalo, Hanna, Isaias, Josephine, Kyle, Laura, Marco, Nana, Omar, Paulette, Rene, Sally, Teddy, Vicky and Wilfred

Recommended Family Preparedness Items

The best time to assemble a three-day emergency supplies kit is well before you will ever need it. Most people already have these items around the house, and it is a matter of assembling them now before an evacuation or State of Emergency order is issued.

Start with an easy to carry, watertight container – a large plastic trash can will do, or line a sturdy cardboard box with a couple of trash bags. Next, gather up the following items and place them in your kit:

Essentials
 Water – 1 gallon per person per day (a week’s supply of water is preferable)
 Water purification kit or bleach
 First aid kit and first aid book
 Pre-cooked, non-perishable foods, such as canned meats, granola bars, instant soup & cereals, etc.
 Baby supplies: formula, bottle, pacifier, soap, baby powder, clothing, blankets, baby wipes, disposable diapers, canned food and juices
 Non-electric can opener
 Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel
 Blanket or sleeping bag per person
 Portable radio or portable TV and extra batteries
 Flashlight and extra batteries
 Essential medications
 Extra pair of eyeglasses
 Extra house and car keys
 Fire extinguisher – ABC-type
 Food, water, leash and carrier for pets
 Cash and change
 Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes
 Please remember your pets

Sanitation Supplies
 Large plastic trash bags for waste, tarps and rain ponchos
 Large trash cans
 Bar soap and liquid detergent
 Shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes
 Feminine hygiene supplies
 Toilet paper
 Household bleach
 Rubber gloves

Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your family’s safety and comfort during and after a disaster. Store enough supplies for at least three days, preferably seven days, in one place.

Tax Assistance Offered at Granville County Senior Center

June 4, 2020/by WIZS Staff

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-Press Release, Granville County Government

IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) volunteers are back at the Granville County Senior Center in Oxford to assist Granville County seniors age 60+ with their tax returns. This free service will be available from 5 until 8 p.m. each Thursday through July 9. Appointments are required.

Participants will need to bring a valid picture ID, Social Security cards for themselves and any dependents claimed, income information, proof of health insurance and their previous-year tax returns.

To schedule an appointment, contact the Granville County Senior Center in Oxford, located at 107 Lanier Street, at 919-693-1930.

Text-to-911 Now Available in Warren Co.; Residents Urged to Prioritize Calling 911

June 3, 2020/by WIZS Staff

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-Press Release, Warren County Government

Warren County E-911 is pleased to announce that Text-to-911 capabilities are now in place. However, residents should choose to call 911 over texting whenever possible. Text-to-911 should only be used in extreme emergencies.

When using Text-to-911, texters must include their location/address and name. Telecommunicators cannot assist a texter if they do not have a location. No photos or videos should be sent via Text-to-911.

With Text-to-911, the caller has the ability to send a text message to reach 911 emergency call takers from their mobile phones. Whenever possible, the caller should continue to call 911 rather than text.

If the person in need attempts to send a text to 911 where mobile service is not available, providers will send an automatic “bounce-back” message that will advise you to contact emergency services by another means, such as making a voice call. Bounce-back messages are intended to minimize your risk of mistakenly believing that a text-to-911 has been transmitted to an emergency call center when it has not.

Those using Text-to-911 should not text and drive.

For more information, contact the Warren County Sheriff’s Office at 252-257-3456.

Jenna Holloway Named GCPS 2020 Teacher of the Year

June 3, 2020/by WIZS Staff

THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

-Press Release, Granville County Public Schools

Each year, GCPS celebrates excellence in teaching through our Teacher of the Year recognitions. Staff at each school selects a Teacher of the Year who then competes to become the District Teacher of the Year, who then goes on to possibly compete at the regional, state and national levels.

Unfortunately, the pandemic altered the traditional special ceremony and announcements held this spring. This year, instead of being recognized in person, the teachers of the year were celebrated virtually at the June 1, 2020, Board of Education meeting.

Mrs. Jenna Holloway, first-grade teacher at Mt. Energy Elementary School, was selected as Granville County Public Schools’ 2020 Teacher of the Year. (Photo courtesy GCPS)

Senior staff and Board members recognized each of the eighteen school’s respective teachers of the year, showing photos and reading short biographies of each outstanding educator. Superintendent McLean then announced the second and first runners up, before Chairman David Richardson announced the 2020 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Jenna Holloway, First Grade Teacher at Mt. Energy Elementary School.

Mrs. Holloway was presented with her trophy, flowers, yard sign and balloons in person the day after the announcement. She will also receive a check for $1,000 on behalf of the Granville Ed Foundation. Each of the runners up were honored with a trophy and $500 on behalf of the Granville Ed Foundation.

Superintendent McLean offered her thoughts on the announcement, stating, “We are sure that Mrs. Holloway will be a shining star among the others recognized across the country for this top honor. We are proud of her and all she represents.”

Board Chairman Richardson also shared his praise, stating, “I am so proud of all of these teachers and the dedication and love they have for their students. I know that Mrs. Holloway will represent our district well in this coming year as a true ambassador for our county and the profession itself.”

2020 Granville County Teachers of the Year:

Elementary Schools

Butner Stem Elementary School ~ Amy Brown

C.G. Credle Elementary School ~ Shiloh Novak

Creedmoor Elementary School ~ Stephanie Layton

Mt. Energy Elementary School ~ Jenna Holloway (WINNER)

Stovall Shaw Elementary School ~ Christopher Leas

Tar River Elementary School ~ Shelby Ford

West Oxford Elementary School ~ Karla Gravitt

Wilton Elementary School ~ Sherri Wilkins

Middle Schools

Butner Stem Middle School ~ Kimberly York (SECOND RUNNER UP)

G.C. Hawley Middle School ~ Margaret Hernandez

Granville Academy ~ Michael Spradlin

Northern Granville Middle School ~ MaShaunda Goods

High Schools

Granville Central High School ~ Stacey Mangum

Granville Early College High School ~ Emily Nemitz (FIRST RUNNER UP)

J.F. Webb High School ~ Rebecca Wilkinson

J.F. Webb School HLS ~ Jennifer Howard

Phoenix Academy ~ Amanda Grady

South Granville High School ~ Dane Fields