TownTalk: Ride to Save Lives Event

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A Ride to Save Lives fundraiser will be held Saturday, May 31 in Henderson at Shooter’s Tavern on Norlina Road. Proceeds will go to support local participation in the Lost Voices of Fentanyl’s national event that will be held in October on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Local organizer Patricia Drewes said the motorcycle ride will begin at 11 a.m., but the day doesn’t end there. Guest speakers will take the stage about 1 p.m., Drewes said on Monday’s TownTalk and she wants families to come out and bring their children because they need to know how dangerous illicit drugs like fentanyl can be.

Drewes is vice president of the national group Lost Voices of Fentanyl, which she said is the largest fentanyl advocacy group in the U.S. with 36,000 members. The group’s president, April Babcock, is scheduled to speak during the local event, too.

Also on display will be 50 victims impact banners and four teen banners to highlight the tragic loss of young lives to fentanyl.

Beginning about 4 p.m., several bands will perform, including local groups Legendary Lane and Heartbreak Station. Virginia-based Redbank also will perform.

The cover charge for the concert is $15; the cost to ride is $20.

Drewes said she’s organized rallies before, but this is the biggest to date. She thanked Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow for his help with planning the route and for volunteering to lead the ride.

“I’m on a mission to save lives,” Drewes said. Her only child, Heaven, died from fentanyl poisoning.

“I want people to come out and bring their children,” she said, stressing the importance of helping young people realize and understand the dangers of illicit drugs.

“This could happen to them,” she said. “It’s just really important that kids see it. They need to understand that ‘yes, it can happen to you.’”

She prefers the word poisoning to overdose because an overdose implies that the person simply took more than the recommended dosage.

“It’s not an overdose,” she said. “There’s no recommended dosage for any illicit drug.”

 

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Cooperative Extension with Wayne Rowland: Vermicomposting

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On the Vance County Cooperative Extension Report from Wayne Rowland:

Vermicomposting can improve your garden by using vermicompost to improve your garden soil.

Listen live at 100.1 FM / 1450 AM / or on the live stream at WIZS.com at 11:50 a.m. Mon, Tues & Thurs.

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NCDOT

11 Miles Of Vance County Roads Included In NCDOT $1.2M Improvement Project

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— Information courtesy of the N.C. Department of Transportation

The N.C. Department of Transportation has awarded an almost $1.2 million contract to Sunrock Industries, LLC to improve more than 11 miles of roadway in Vance County.

NCDOT spokesperson Kim Deaner released the information on Thursday, May. 15.

The contractor will improve 11 sections of secondary roads including Glebe Road from Glover Road to N.C. 39, Nutbush Road from N.C. 39 to Satterwhite Point Road, and Haywood Wright Road from Ross Mill Road to N.C. 39.

The project will involve milling, resurfacing, shoulder reconstruction, and curb replacement. Work is scheduled to begin this spring and is expected to be complete by late fall 2026.

Maria Parham Health Celebrates National Nurses Week With Food, Fun, Gifts Galore!

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— information courtesy of Donna Young, Maria Parham Health Marketing & Communications coordinator

The nurses at Maria Parham Health enjoyed a little pampering during the recent National Nurses Week, celebrated May 6-9, to honor their extraordinary dedication, compassion and resilience of its nursing team. Throughout the week, events were held to show appreciation for the difficult and essential work nurses perform every day, according to Donna Young, MPH Marketing & Communications coordinator.

The celebration kicked off on Tuesday, May 6, with a festive ice cream sundae bar available to both day and night shift nurses. MPH team members also enjoyed a delicious variety of lunch options from local food trucks including Soulbachi, Bologna Boyz Food Wagon, and Smoking Aces.

On Wednesday, May 7, the hospital hosted its much-loved Annual Nurses’ Breakfast, providing a hearty meal to energize our healthcare heroes for the demanding day ahead.

Thursday, May 8, featured a particularly meaningful tradition: The Blessing of the Hands. Led by Pastor Frank Sossamon, this sacred ceremony acknowledges the physical and spiritual work of nurses, asking for strength, compassion and protection as they provide care and healing to others. The Blessing of the Hands is a long-standing ritual in healthcare settings, symbolizing the deep connection between the caregiver and the patient, and affirming the sacredness of the healing profession.

The week concluded on Friday, May 9, with a caffeine boost: nurses were treated to coffee from Love is Coffee.

Throughout the week, nurses were also entered into drawings for nearly 100 valuable prizes, generously donated by community sponsors. Maria Parham Health extends heartfelt thanks to the following businesses and individuals who made these giveaways possible:

Henderson Sponsors

Nella Roo’s • Charles Boyd • Chick-fil-A • Auto Brite • George’s • The Attic • Hair Loft • Jersey  Mike’s • Postal Plus/NC Flavors • Wester Insurance • NG Nails • Ichibar • Vanco Outdoor  Equipment • Sossamon Funeral Home 

Oxford Sponsors

Art and Craft Space • Southern Style Mercantile • Tobacco Wood • Oasis • Bliss Nutrition 

Wake Forest Sponsor

Salon Serenity 

Special thanks also go to Jane Haithcock, Connie Roberson, Kay Hall, and our MPH doctors for  their generous contributions and support throughout the week.

Maria Parham Health is deeply grateful to its nurses—not just during Nurses Week, but every day—for their tireless service and commitment to patient care.

“Our nurses are truly the backbone of this hospital,” said Maria Parham Health CEO Bert Beard.  “Their compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to our patients and community are nothing short of inspiring. This week was just one way for us to say ‘thank you’ for all that they do.”

Maria Parham Health proudly celebrates the vital role nurses play in delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare across our region.

Vance County Schools Named National District Of Distinction By National Beta

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— information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools has been named a 2024-2025 National District of Distinction by National Beta, an independent nonprofit organization that recognizes high academic achievement and encourages service to others.

This award is given to school districts which offer National Beta in all schools in their district and induct qualifying students in grades 4-12. Vance County Schools is one of only 78 districts to receive this award nationwide, according to information from VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Support Aarika Sandlin

Through the exceptional efforts of Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett, club sponsors and deserving Beta members, Vance County Schools has flourished since the district’s initial Beta charter. This national award speaks highly of our district’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and service involvement, and illustrates our dedication to preparing students for college and career readiness. The students in their district understand the importance of these qualities and exemplify the Beta motto, Let Us Lead by Serving Others.

“This recognition is evidence of the incredible work happening in every school across our district,” said Dr. Cindy Bennett, Superintendent of Vance County Schools. “To be named a National Beta District of Distinction again speaks volumes about the character of our students, the dedication of our staff, and our shared belief in service, leadership, and academic excellence. We are honored to celebrate this achievement together.”

Vance County has been named a Beta Club District of Distinction for the last 7 years, yearly since 2019. Vance County Schools will receive a National Beta District of Distinction plaque to display at the district office. In addition, National Beta District of Distinction principals will receive a plaque to display at their schools.

The District Beta Club Coordinator for Vance County Schools is Mr. Andrew Markoch, Director of Fine Arts and Physical Education. Following is a list of schools, their principals and Beta Club advisers.

  • Aycock Elementary: Principal, Donald Johnson III; Beta Club advisers, Raegan Ross and Caroline Boyd
  • Carver Elementary: Principal, Regina Rainey; Beta Club adviser, Michelle Morgan-Edwards.
  • Clarke Elementary: Principal, Dr. C’monee Wilkins; Beta Club adviser, Lori-Ann Lewis
  • Dabney Elementary: Principal, Dr. Michael Putney; Beta Club adviser, Michelle Foster
  • E.M. Rollins: Principal, Dr. Carnetta Thomas; Beta Club adviser, Nicole Anderson
  • E.O. Young Elementary: Principal, Kristen Boyd; Beta Club adviser, Marian Faulkner
  • L.B. Yancey: Principal, Dr. Shannon Bullock; Beta Club adviser, Wendy Oakley
  • New Hope Elementary: Principal, Letitia Fields; Beta Club adviser, Barbara Young
  • Pinkston Street Elementary: Principal, Canecca Mayes; Beta Club adviser, Yolanda Dixon
  • Zeb Vance Elementary: Principal, Joy Suther; Beta Club adviser, Colleen Tyburski
  • Vance County Middle School: Principal, Dr. Stephanie Ayscue; Beta Club adviser, Sheneika Campbell-Thomas
  • STEM Early High: Principal Edward Ortega also serves as Beta Club adviser
  • Vance County High School: Principal, Dr. Nealie Whitt III; Beta Club adviser, Lindsey Ramsey
  • Vance County Early College High School: Principal, Debbie Hite: Beta Club adviser ,Vicki Fullwood-Barrett
  • Vance Virtual Village: Principal, Dr. Jeff Batten; Beta Club adviser, Anton Wesley

 

 

‘Got To Be NC Festival’ Kicks Off May 16 For A Weekend Of Fun, Ag-Related Activities

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— from the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences

North Carolina’s No. 1 industry — agriculture — will be on display along with a colorful lineup of tractors, N.C. food and beverage products, and plenty of family-friendly activities when the Got to Be NC Festival returns to the State Fairgrounds May 16-18 in Raleigh.

In addition, this free event features a daily tractor parade at 1 p.m., carnival rides and games, a butterfly barn, kids’ activities, dairy milking classes, a pig birthing exhibit, antique farm equipment, an N.C. Craft Beer Garden and N.C. Craft Cocktail Garden, an antique tractor pull, fair food and music.

The Got to Be NC Pavilion will feature nearly 100 North Carolina food and beverage vendors showcasing some of North Carolina’s tastiest products. Visitors can sample and shop the Pavilion for their favorite items. Admission to the Pavilion is $3.

Daily grounds entertainment includes the King BMX Stunt Show, the Kenya Safari Acrobats, a puppet show, herding dog demonstrations with Quack Pack USA, demonstrations with K-9 officers with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office and Boomer’s Farm Truck that offers photo opportunities for youngsters and the young at heart.

The Got to Be NC Music Stage will feature a variety of music throughout the weekend including, country, rock, R&B, jazz, folk, Latin and Americana. Check the Got to Be NC website for the concert lineup.

On Saturday, May 17, the Carolina Pig Jig will feature more than 20 chapters of Masons in a BBQ competition to benefit the Masonic Homes for Children at Oxford and Central Children’s Home. BBQ and fixings will be served to the public beginning at 11 a.m, following judging. Stretchy pants are definitely recommended for this all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet. Tickets are $20 for ages 11 and older, $10 for youth 5 to 10 years old, and free for kids 4 and under.

Also on Saturday, catch the antique tractor pull from 2 to 8 p.m. in the N.C. Education Lottery Grandstand.

On Sunday, enjoy a gospel performance by The Master’s Men a capella group during the Heritage Church Service at 10:30 a.m.

Festival gate hours are Friday, noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Building and exhibit hours are Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Carnival hours are Friday noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Carnival hours may extend one hour depending on attendance.

TownTalk: Author Martha Gayle Book-Signing Event Saturday At Sadie’s Coffee Corner

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Author Martha Gayle will be at Sadie’s Coffee Corner Saturday morning, May 17, for a book signing event for her second book, When Jesus Leads. Come out to chat with Gayle between 10 a.m. and 12 noon at Sadie’s located at 324 S. Garnett St.

When Jesus Leads picks up chronicling the lives of Mary and Jimmy, and picks up where the first book, When Jesus Calls, ends.

“Both of the books are all real life,” Gayle said, and recall events in her own life journey.

Through these characters, Gayle said, she hopes to share the importance of learning to trust God above all else.

“When we walk in His way and His will, it’s always perfect, always beautiful on the other side. That’s a lot of what these stories share is just trusting God above all else,” she said on Thursday’s TownTalk.

Martha Gayle, her pen name, said it’s a humbling experience to speak to others about her life. “That’s why God gave us this life, to share it.”

Gayle said she has found healing in writing the books.

“Writing has been the easiest part of the journey,” she said.

The first book was published in 2023, and When Jesus Leads was published in January of this year. She working on a third now – she’s on Chapter 7, so far.

“It’s a story that just continues,” she said, but wouldn’t give away any secrets about what happens in the lives of her characters Mary and Jimmy in this second book.

“There’s a twist in the second book,” she said, “I’m not going to say anything else, because it’s pretty awesome, actually.”

She said reviews have been positive thus far, and she read from one that said called When Jesus Leads a “heartfelt and faith-driven novel” that deals with themes of redemption, forgiveness and faith.

“Believing, trusting and walking in the will of God is the only thing that any of us need to do,” Gayle said. “It’s not always easy but to see the blessings and to see God glorifying himself in those moments – there’s nothing like it in the world.”

She gave a little clue at what the third book may include, but readers will just have to wait until it’s out to know for sure. “I believe this third book…is going to be a healing season for Jimmy, not as much for Mary,” she hinted.

 

A line of Scripture that features prominently in her life, her writing and her website is John 11:40, which reads: “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

For Gayle, that verse is central to her life and to her endeavors as an author.

“God has planned this to the minute of what’s happening,” she said. The reviews and rewards (are) just been total confirmation that I’m doing exactly what God wants me to do in telling the story.”

 

Gayle dedicated her first book to her father; the second book is dedicated to her father and to her daughter.

We’ll have to wait and see to whom the third – and maybe more – books are dedicated.

Both books will be available for purchase at Saturday’s book signing, and Gayle said anyone who wants to bring books they’ve already purchased, she’ll sign those, too.

Visit www.marthagayle.com to learn more. She welcomes comments and prayer requests, too.

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Cooperative Extension with Jamon Glover: The Decision-Making Muscle

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Vance County Cooperative Extension with Jamon Glover

Listen live at 100.1 FM / 1450 AM / or on the live stream at WIZS.com at 11:50 a.m. Mon, Tues & Thurs.

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