VGCC Board Of Trustees Votes Against Hosting Educational Forum On Data Centers

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In a special called meeting on Thursday, Sept. 3, the Vance-Granville Community College Board of Trustees decided against hosting an educational forum to discuss the issue of data centers.

At its regularly scheduled meeting on July 20, the board heard two requests from residents during the Public Comment period requesting the board consider hosting a public forum to give the community an opportunity to learn more about data centers, which has been a hot-button topic in Vance County for months.

At that meeting, the board instructed VGCC President Dr. Rachel Desmarais to create a framework for a public forum.

“They specified that the framework should include a forum structure and guidelines,” Desmarais said in a statement Friday afternoon to WIZS News. “They also requested that I articulate the pros and cons of hosting such a forum and give them a recommendation on whether the College should indeed host such a forum.”

At Thursday’s meeting, the board reviewed the proposal, and, after what Desmarais described as “lengthy” discussions, Trustee Gordon Wilder made two motions, the first of which was withdrawn and replaced with a second motion to remove the VGCC administration from the responsibility of organizing an educational forum regarding data centers.

Trustee Tony Cozart seconded the motion and it passed unanimously in a roll-call vote.

Wilder’s first motion included keeping the college as a possible host site for a forum if a request came from a county commission or other recognized group from Vance, Granville, Warren or Franklin counties, which comprise the VGCC service area.

Desmarais said the board members considered a variety of concerns and options during their discussion, including risks of disruption from possible protests and the strain on college resources and staff that such an event could create.

According to Desmarais, Trustee Carolyn Faines – who also chairs the Vance County Board of Commissioners – questioned the logic of organizing an educational event before any formal application or filing for a data center has been made in Vance County. Desmarais said Faines characterized it as “putting the cart before the horse.”

Several board members suggested that another group could rent the Civic Center to host a forum and indicated a certain degree of comfort with providing a venue rather than hosting the event and the college would not be seen as organizing or endorsing the event.

In addition to Desmarais, trustees in attendance were Tony Cozart, Tare Davis, Carolyn Faines, Tom Harris, Dorwin Howard, Bruce Howerton, Abdul Rashid, Michael Schriver, Archie Taylor, Corey Thornton, Elaine Trujillo, Sara Wester, Gordon Wilder, Brenda Williamson, Xavier Wortham and Danny Wright.

Maria Parham Cancer Center Nurse Receives DAISY Award

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— Information courtesy of Maria Parham Health

A Maria Parham Health Cancer Center nurse is the latest recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.

Courtney Wilkerson, BSN, RN, was nominated by a grateful patient who described her as one of the kindest and most caring nurses they had ever encountered. The nomination highlights the profound impact her care and compassion had on the patient during what was an especially difficult time following a cancer diagnosis.

“When I was first diagnosed with cancer, it was a hard blow, and I wanted to be left alone,” the patient wrote in the nomination. “I was so rude to her, but she was always so very kind.”

The patient went on to describe Courtney’s compassion and the personal connection she provided throughout their treatment.

“Courtney prayed with me and for me,” the patient shared. “She has a loving and kind heart and is always checking on me. Courtney has made this difficult journey a little more bearable.”

The DAISY Award was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), an autoimmune disease. During Patrick’s eight-week hospitalization, his family was deeply moved by the extraordinary compassion and care his nurses provided—not only to Patrick, but to his entire family.

In Patrick’s memory, his family established The DAISY Foundation with a mission to recognize nurses who make an extraordinary difference in the lives of their patients and families through the compassion, skill and dedication they demonstrate every day.

The name DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem, reflecting the circumstances surrounding Patrick’s illness and the foundation created in his honor.

At Maria Parham Health, DAISY Award nominations provide an opportunity for patients, families and colleagues to recognize nurses who go above and beyond the clinical responsibilities of their profession. These nominations shine a light on the personal moments of nursing—the encouragement, compassion, advocacy, comfort and human connection that can profoundly affect a patient’s experience.

For Courtney, her nomination is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassionate care can make.

“The Cancer Center is very blessed to have the most loving and caring nurses ever,” the patient wrote. “For that reason, I nominate my sweet nurse Courtney for the DAISY Award.”

Maria Parham Health congratulates Courtney on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for embodying the compassion and commitment that define exceptional nursing.

“Courtney’s nomination beautifully illustrates what nursing is truly about,” said Betsy Hunt, Chief Nursing Officer at Maria Parham Health. “Her patient recognized not only the excellent care she provided, but the kindness, compassion and personal support she offered during an incredibly difficult chapter in their life. We are incredibly proud of Courtney and grateful for the difference she makes for our patients and their families.”

The DAISY Award is represented by a hand-carved sculpture called the Healer’s Touch, crafted from Serpentine stone in Zimbabwe. The sculpture symbolizes the profound respect the Shona people have for traditional healers and represents the special healing touch nurses bring to their patients.

DAISY celebrations also traditionally include cinnamon buns in honor of Patrick Barnes, who loved the comforting smell of cinnamon.

Through the DAISY Award program, Maria Parham Health is honored to celebrate nurses like Courtney Wilkerson whose compassion extends beyond treatment and procedures to provide comfort, hope and encouragement when patients need it most.

The Local Skinny! VCS Celebrates Academic Progress

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Vance County Schools is celebrating academic progress following the release of the 2025–2026 accountability results, with the data showing student growth, improved School Performance Grades, and substantial school turnaround across the district.

The 2026 results reflect positive momentum for Vance County Schools. Thirteen schools met or exceeded overall growth expectations, including Aycock Elementary, Carver Elementary, Clarke Elementary, Dabney Elementary, EM Rollins STEAM, EO Young Elementary, LB Yancey Elementary, New Hope Elementary, Pinkston Street Elementary, Zeb Vance Elementary, Vance Virtual Village, Vance County Middle, and Vance County Early College.

A total of ten schools improved their year-over-year growth status, including Aycock Elementary, Clarke Elementary, Dabney Elementary, Vance County Middle, New Hope Elementary, EO Young Elementary, Pinkston Street Elementary, Vance County High, LB Yancey Elementary, Zeb Vance Elementary, and STEM Early High.

The district also made a significant stride in reducing the number of schools receiving an “F” School Performance Grade from 4 to just 1. The district’s 2026 School Performance Grade distribution includes one A, five Cs, nine Ds, and one F. 

Seven schools improved their School Performance Letter Grade, including Aycock Elementary, Clarke Elementary, Dabney Elementary, New Hope Elementary, E.O. Young Elementary, L.B. Yancey Elementary, and Zeb Vance Elementary.

Superintendent Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney said in the press release from Vance County Schools … “These results belong first to the teachers, instructional specialists, school leaders, and support staff who have done the hard work of turning strategy into stronger instruction for students every day. Over the past few years, we have been very intentional as a district about strengthening core instruction, using data differently and putting targeted supports around schools and classrooms. It is incredibly rewarding to now see that work reflected in sustained growth across so many of our schools.”

E.O. Young Elementary improved its School Performance Grade 24 points over the last two years, earning a “C” and demonstrating substantial academic progress. Zeb Vance Elementary recorded the district’s largest single-year increase in School Performance Grade score, gaining 11 points in 2026, while also meeting growth expectations.

Vance County Early College continues its tradition of academic excellence, earning an “A” School Performance Grade for the 11th consecutive year. In 2026, the school recorded an 89.4% overall proficiency rate while meeting growth expectations.

Vance County Schools also recorded a four-year cohort graduation rate of 80.8%, another indicator of the district’s continued focus on helping students maintain the momentum to stay on track for graduation and future success.

Aycock Elementary continues sustained student growth, having exceeded growth expectations in four of the last five years. In 2026, it increased its School Performance Grade score by eight points, earning a “C.” The school also recorded an impressive 90.6% growth score.

Vance County Middle demonstrated substantial instructional progress in 2026. The school exceeded growth expectations with a 91.3% growth score, reflecting strong academic progress among students and continued efforts to address achievement gaps.

The 2026 accountability results demonstrate that Vance County Schools is continuing on a trajectory of academic growth and school improvement. While district leaders recognize that achievement gaps remain and additional work is necessary, the gains across schools provide evidence that focused instruction, strategic supports, and the commitment of students, educators, families, and community partners are producing meaningful results.

“We are proud of this progress, but we are not satisfied,” Superintendent Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney said. “Our responsibility now is to build on what is working, accelerate achievement where gaps remain, and make sure this kind of growth becomes the expectation across every school in VCS.”

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Cooperative Extension with Jamon Glover: The Mentor

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Jamon Glover, on the Vance County Cooperative Extension Report:

We continue our new series called the Theory of 7’s. This is a fatherhood framework for raising children, one stage at a time. We move on to a very important age group, ages 21 to age 28, where fathers take on a mentorship role for their children.

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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TownTalk: Business Spotlight – Deal By Me Podcast

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Dr. James W. Smith retired from his 32-year role as a pastor a few years ago, but what he decided to do in his post-retirement “next chapter” was formed by a desire to help others the way others had helped him so many years ago – before he was even a pastor.

These days, the former pastor of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Bahama is busy with a different type of ministry – one that involves being a church consultant, author and podcaster.

It was more than just finding something to do with his free time – he wanted to be encouraging, inspiring and transforming, he said during Wednesday’s Business Spotlight on WIZS.

He investigated the world of podcasting and has interviewed people from all over the world to share their stories that, you guessed it, encourage, inspire and transform.

With more than 330 Deal By Me podcasts under his belt now, he’s pivoted to shine a light on individuals in local communities who provide encouragement and inspiration in a transformational way.

The first local recognition took place in Franklin County, where he was born and raised. Five honorees were recognized at that event.

The second one takes place on Oct. 3, right here in Henderson, where Smith practiced law in the office with now-Judge Henry Banks.

The following individuals were nominated and then selected to be recognized at the event, which will be held at Crossroads Event Center:

  • Dorothy ‘Joy’ Bowser
  • Jessica Rice Hawkins
  • Karen Rice Christmas
  • Fran Cawthorne
  • Shelton Anderson
  • Dr. Thelma McClean
  • June Lewis
  • Annette Myers

 

Smith said he makes the selections from among the nominations he receives, and he simply wants to show appreciation to this “very deserving” group of people, who were nominated by others in the community because of the way they show encouragement to others.

Tickets are $40 each and can be purchased at https://www.dealbymepodcast.com/event-list.

There was a time in Smith’s life when he needed encouragement, he said.

“I remember what people did for me,” Smith said, recalling the kindnesses he received.

“You don’t know what your encouragement can do for somebody,” he said. “That’s what happened to me.”

Visit https://www.dealbymepodcast.com/ to learn more.

 

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Perry Memorial Library

The Local Skinny! Wrap Up Summer At Perry Memorial Library

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It’s September, which means that schools are back in session, and parents and kids are getting back into a routine – and that includes programs and activities at Perry Memorial Library.

Youth Services Director Melody Peters said there’s certainly something for everyone at the library, from familiar favorites like Mother Goose Story Time to a new Gaming Club for tweens and teens.

The Gaming Club meets on the first Tuesday of the month from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Peters told WIZS’s Scout Hughes on The Local Skinny! segment. Prepare to enjoy some new games and gaming systems – and there will be snacks, too! This is a drop-in program, so no registration is needed – just come by and spend some time with fellow gamers.

The Reading Buddies program is a way for children in grades K-5 to build their confidence with reading.

“It’s not tutoring, but just a support,” Peters explained. Parents can sign up for a 30-minute slot on Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Volunteers will read with their buddies and help get the youngsters exposed to the joys of reading.

Thursdays are busy days at the library, with Mother Goose Story Time at 11 a.m., Lego Fun and Games from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and a 4:30 p.m. story time for busy families – “one book and bubbles, for families on the go,” Peters said.

Teen Time moves to Mondays, and the first program is set for Sept. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Participants will have some fun creating objects with beads. The Teen Time continues on Sept. 21 and Sept. 28 for kids in middle and high school.

Young people in middle and high school – and their parents or caregivers – are invited to a special workshop to learn about the negative consequences of smoking and vaping.

Project Open Air and its Creator Lab will come to the library at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 21.

There will be pizza, Peters said, so come hungry and come prepared to help turn what you learn into a presentation that can be used to help others understand how tobacco use and vaping affect your health and community.

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, come celebrate the First Day of Autumn with a leaf-rubbing art activity for all ages.

And on Sept. 28, the library is hosting an Open House to showcase all the different programs, activities and amenities that are available for all to enjoy.

Peters invites the community “to come out and explore all the amazing things that they may not know about our library.”

Visit www.perrylibrary.org for a complete listing of programs and services the library offers.

 

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TownTalk: VGCC Trustees To Consider The Possibility Of Hosting An Educational Forum About Data Centers

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The Vance-Granville Community College Board of Trustees will convene Thursday afternoon at 4:30 p.m. at a special called meeting to consider the possibility of hosting an educational forum about data centers.

With lots of uncertainty across the community surrounding this polarizing issue, VGCC leaders have been approached about having an information session that could present relevant information in an objective format.

With uncertainty comes speculation, and although the county has not gotten any applications for any data center project, there is plenty of speculation floating around about a particular tract of properties along U.S. Hwy. 158 Business that recently was rezoned to Light Industrial.

County commissioners approved the rezoning in April, which made a final tract and the roughly 500 or so adjoining acres, and tracts, to conform with one another.

Names on the rezoning request included Natelli Investments, a Maryland-based developer associated with data centers.

In early July, Thomas Natelli responded to an email from a Vance County resident regarding the rezoning approval.

In the email, Natelli included an update on the project.

“Since the rezoning was completed in April, we have been conducting extensive due diligence on a range of matters and developing a program for a data center campus on the site. We expect to begin community engagement later this summer in conjunction with the site plan process. That will include community meetings where we will share project information, answer questions, and listen to community feedback,” the email stated.

He referred to pending legislation in the General Assembly that could have implications for the project. Senate Bill 730 is one of the pieces of legislation that focuses on water and electricity use that data centers require, among other issues.

“We recognize that the limited information available during the rezoning process has created the perception of a lack of transparency. I want to assure you and the community that we are committed to engaging openly with the community as our program for the site comes together. In the meantime, we are happy to continue the dialogue,” the email continued.

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