The Salvation Army announces the appointment of Majors Jonathan and Staci Gainey as new Corps Officers for The Salvation Army in Henderson. Their ministry will officially begin on Sunday, June 15 to serve in Vance, Granville, Franklin, Warren, Halifax and Northampton counties.
The Gaineys bring more than two decades of faithful service as Salvation Army officers, with deep roots in both personal and pastoral ministry, according to information from Gina Eaves, office coordinator at the Henderson office on Ross Mill Road.
Married in November 1988 in Jacksonville, FL, Jonathan and Staci have four children and also enjoy being grandparents.
Staci was born into a family of Salvation Army officers and raised in a life of ministry, with her parents, Majors Thomas and Kareen Nicholls, now retired from active service. Jonathan, on the other hand, had no personal connection to The Salvation Army before meeting Staci. After 10 years of marriage, he began attending the Salvation Army corps in Jacksonville with Staci and their children. There, he experienced the transforming call of God upon his life and responded with a wholehearted commitment to ministry.
Jonathan is also a veteran of the U.S. Army and active-duty National Guard, having served honorably for more than five years before his discharge in 1998. In 2002, the Gaineys were commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers as part of the Crossbearers session, beginning a journey that would take them across North Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Alabama in seven different corps appointments.
Jonathan has also served as a local pastor in the United Methodist Church from 2012 to 2015 and as ordained clergy within the Global Methodist Church from 2023 until earlier this year.
Their educational backgrounds reflect their dedication to spiritual formation and Christian leadership. Staci holds a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership from Nazarene Bible College and is especially known for her gift of pastoral care and leadership.
Jonathan holds both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has a strong passion for biblical study and theology, and he enjoys helping others grow in their understanding of Scripture and faith.
Music also plays a central role in their lives and ministry. Staci is an accomplished pianist who enjoys playing for worship and is often invited to provide accompaniment at divisional and territorial events throughout The Salvation Army. Her musical sensitivity brings richness and depth to the worship experience. Jonathan plays both acoustic and electric guitar, offering rhythm and lead accompaniment that enhances congregational singing and contemporary praise. Together, their musical gifts help create Spirit-filled worship environments that are both reverent and joyful.
They describe their leadership style as both delegative and coaching—empowering others through encouragement, accountability, and intentional development. They uphold an open-door policy and strive to create a culture of approachability, professionalism, and care. They believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with staff, volunteers, donors, and members of the community.
Jonathan and Staci are already in prayer for the corps family, staff, Advisory Board, friends of The Salvation Army, and the many lives that are touched through its outreach in the Henderson region. They look forward to building upon the excellent work of Major Beth Mallard, whose faithful service has made a lasting impact.
They said they are excited to continue the ministries of The Salvation Army, including providing food for those in need, serving children through the Red Shield Club’s after-school and summer programs, offering excellent worship experiences, and growing lasting relationships with volunteers, supporters and community partners throughout the region.
In both life and ministry, the Gaineys are guided by the words of Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
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Master Gardener Volunteer Class Forming Now For Aug. 14 Kickoff
/by WIZS StaffA new Master Gardener Volunteer class is getting underway in mid-August and gardeners and plant enthusiasts of all levels are invited to sign up.
The classes will be held on Thursdays at the Berea Fire Station or the Vance County Regional Farmers Market beginning Aug. 14 and running through Nov. 20, according to information from the Vance and Granville offices of the N.C. Cooperative Extension.
Tuition is $175 and includes all materials and resources needed for the class. Participants will receive training on soils and plant nutrients, native plants, diagnostics and much more.
To register, contact Vance County Agent Michael Ellington at 252.438.8188 or email maelling@ncsu.edu or Granville County Agent Johnny Coley at 919.603.1350 or email jwcoley@ncsu.edu.
Warren County Nominees Needed For ‘Heroic Hands’ Recognition
/by WIZS StaffThe North Carolina Association of County Commissioners has launched an initiative called “Heroic Hands” to recognize a county government employee from each of the 100 counties across the state who goes “above and beyond in serving their county.
Warren County Commissioner Tare “T” Davis is president of the association, and it’s Warren County’s turn to submit a name for consideration.
Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24, according to information from Warren County. The nomination form is available at https://www.warrencountync.com/, or it can be accessed directly at Warren County Government Employee Heroic Hands Nomination Form.
If you have any questions, please contact Paula Pulley at paulapulley@warrencountync.gov or by phone at 252.257.3115.
Community ‘Read-In’ Event Kicks Off Wednesday, June 25
/by WIZS StaffCalling all readers to join in a community “Read-In” that will be held this summer on the last Wednesdays of the months of June, July and August. The last Wednesday in June is June 25.
Bring a chair or a blanket and a book, magazine or newspaper and spend an hour on the lawn across from Perry Memorial Library. The events begin at 4 p.m. and last for an hour.
Participants are requested to silence all electronics during this time to create a quiet space as readers do what they love to do – READ!
In case of inclement weather, the “read-in” will take place in the gallery between McGregor Hall and the library.
Visit www.perrylibrary.org or call the library at 252.438.3316/ext. 225 to learn more.
The event is being sponsored by the City of Henderson, Perry Memorial Library, Pathways 2 Peace and Vance County Tourism.
June 30 220 Fundraiser To Support Local Magistrate Who Lost Home In Fire
/by WIZS StaffA 220 Fundraiser will take place on Monday, June 30 to support Vance County Magistrate Mike Massenburg and his family, who lost their home and its contents in a house fire.
Tickets are $10 and are available for purchase at the Vance County clerk’s office and at the magistrate’s office.
The event will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for takeout only, and tickets must be offered for proof of purchase – To purchase tickets, please visit the clerk’s office or the magistrate’s office at 156 Church St., Suite 101.
Cooperative Extension with Jamon Glover: Biggest Challenge Fathers Face – Time
/by WIZS StaffCooperative Extension with Jamon Glover: Biggest Challenge Fathers Face – Time
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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2-Day ‘June Bloom Fest’ Kicks Off Saturday, June 14 At Sunshine Lavender Farm In Hurdle Mills
/by WIZS StaffSunshine Lavender Farm in Hurdle Mills is celebrating 25 years with June Bloom Fest, a two-day event centered around that aromatic herb in full bloom now.
Hurdle Mills sits near the Person/Orange County line, and Sunshine Lavender Farm includes a private residence and small working farm located at 4104 Millstone Rd. The event will take place Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15.
Individuals and families are invited to visit and “make memories in the countryside and celebrate the sweet, soothing properties of lavender.”
Visit sunshinelavenderfarm.com to find information about ticket prices and other activities that will be taking place during June Bloom Fest. Pre-paid general admission and workshop tickets are required to attend.
Live music by folk singers Mary Rocap and Megan Whitted of The Travelin’ Mercies will perform on Saturday.
Children under 15 get in free when accompanied by a paying adult.
(This post is not a paid ad. However, it is a trade in exchange for the generosity and kindness shown by the farm and its owners to John Rose of WIZS and his family.)
Vance County Schools Announces Several Leadership Changes For 2025-26 School Year
/by WIZS Staff–Information courtesy of VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support Aarika Sandlin
Vance County Schools has announced several leadership appointments for the upcoming school year, including principals at two schools and several district-level positions, according to information from VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support Aarika Sandlin.
Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett expressed her enthusiasm about this transition: “We are intentional about cultivating strong leaders who believe in the potential of every child. The Board of Education takes pride in being able to elevate proven leaders from within our district, while also welcoming back individuals who know and value our community. It is a leader’s wish to develop others so that they can continue to advance their personal and professional growth while maintaining our high standard for the profession.”
Dr. Shannon Bullock has been appointed principal of Vance County Middle School. Bullock most recently served as Principal of L.B. Yancey Elementary and is a former assistant principal at VCMS. Bullock holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from High Point University, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from East Carolina University, and an Associate of Arts from Vance-Granville Community College.
Facetia Branch has been named Principal of L.B. Yancey Elementary School. She most recently served as Assistant Principal at Vance County Middle School. Branch holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from North Carolina Central University. She went on to earn a Master of Public Administration from Strayer University and a Master of Education in School Leadership from Gardner-Webb University.
Dr. Stephanie Ayscue moves from her role as principal at VCMS into the role of executive director of Secondary Education and Professional Learning. Ayscue also has worked at AdVance Academy and Southern Vance High School. Dr. Ayscue holds a Doctorate in Education from Liberty University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Western Carolina University, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Lourdes College. Ayscue is also a U.S. Air Force veteran.
Kristian Herring is returns to Vance County Schools as the principal of Dabney Elementary School. He most recently served as a District Coach in Edgecombe County Schools, but is no stranger to VCS—having previously led STEM Early High and Zeb Vance Elementary. Herring is working towards his Doctorate in Education from the University of Phoenix. He earned a Master of School Administration from East Carolina University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Dr. Elaine Webb will return to Vance County Schools as the director of Career and Technical Education. Her diverse educational background includes roles as a Career Development Coordinator, Special Education Teacher, and Career & Technical Education Teacher within the district.
Webb holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from Winthrop University, a Master of Education in Exceptional Children from Converse College, an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from East Carolina University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education.
Henderson Salvation Army Welcomes Majors Jonathan And Staci Gainey As Corps Officers
/by WIZS StaffThe Salvation Army announces the appointment of Majors Jonathan and Staci Gainey as new Corps Officers for The Salvation Army in Henderson. Their ministry will officially begin on Sunday, June 15 to serve in Vance, Granville, Franklin, Warren, Halifax and Northampton counties.
The Gaineys bring more than two decades of faithful service as Salvation Army officers, with deep roots in both personal and pastoral ministry, according to information from Gina Eaves, office coordinator at the Henderson office on Ross Mill Road.
Married in November 1988 in Jacksonville, FL, Jonathan and Staci have four children and also enjoy being grandparents.
Staci was born into a family of Salvation Army officers and raised in a life of ministry, with her parents, Majors Thomas and Kareen Nicholls, now retired from active service. Jonathan, on the other hand, had no personal connection to The Salvation Army before meeting Staci. After 10 years of marriage, he began attending the Salvation Army corps in Jacksonville with Staci and their children. There, he experienced the transforming call of God upon his life and responded with a wholehearted commitment to ministry.
Jonathan is also a veteran of the U.S. Army and active-duty National Guard, having served honorably for more than five years before his discharge in 1998. In 2002, the Gaineys were commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers as part of the Crossbearers session, beginning a journey that would take them across North Carolina, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Alabama in seven different corps appointments.
Jonathan has also served as a local pastor in the United Methodist Church from 2012 to 2015 and as ordained clergy within the Global Methodist Church from 2023 until earlier this year.
Their educational backgrounds reflect their dedication to spiritual formation and Christian leadership. Staci holds a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership from Nazarene Bible College and is especially known for her gift of pastoral care and leadership.
Jonathan holds both a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He has a strong passion for biblical study and theology, and he enjoys helping others grow in their understanding of Scripture and faith.
Music also plays a central role in their lives and ministry. Staci is an accomplished pianist who enjoys playing for worship and is often invited to provide accompaniment at divisional and territorial events throughout The Salvation Army. Her musical sensitivity brings richness and depth to the worship experience. Jonathan plays both acoustic and electric guitar, offering rhythm and lead accompaniment that enhances congregational singing and contemporary praise. Together, their musical gifts help create Spirit-filled worship environments that are both reverent and joyful.
They describe their leadership style as both delegative and coaching—empowering others through encouragement, accountability, and intentional development. They uphold an open-door policy and strive to create a culture of approachability, professionalism, and care. They believe in cultivating meaningful relationships with staff, volunteers, donors, and members of the community.
Jonathan and Staci are already in prayer for the corps family, staff, Advisory Board, friends of The Salvation Army, and the many lives that are touched through its outreach in the Henderson region. They look forward to building upon the excellent work of Major Beth Mallard, whose faithful service has made a lasting impact.
They said they are excited to continue the ministries of The Salvation Army, including providing food for those in need, serving children through the Red Shield Club’s after-school and summer programs, offering excellent worship experiences, and growing lasting relationships with volunteers, supporters and community partners throughout the region.
In both life and ministry, the Gaineys are guided by the words of Micah 6:8 (NIV): “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
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Henderson City Council Special Called Meeting Set For Monday To Formally Adopt FY 2025-26 Budget
/by WIZS StaffUpdate 6-16-25 at 1 p.m.
The Henderson City Council took just a few minutes Monday to formally adopt the FY 2025-26 budget during a special called meeting that took place at 12 noon in Council chambers.
City Manager/City Attorney Hassan T. Kingsberry introduced the budget and Council Member Tami Walker made a motion – seconded by Council Member Garry Daeke – to approve.
Council Members Geraldine Champion, Sam Seifert, Michael Venable, Daeke and Walker voted yes.
Council Members Sara Coffey, Lamont Noel and Ola Thorpe-Cooper were not present for the meeting.
The budget adoption had been on the agenda at the June 9 regular monthly meeting, but there was some confusion about whether the council actually took a vote to formally adopt the $54 million budget.
Mayor Melissa Elliott remarked at the special called meeting that she didn’t request an addendum to the budget when she called for the vote at last week’s meeting.
That confusion was cleared up by the vote taken during the special called meeting.
The budget must be approved before July 1, when the new fiscal year begins.
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Depending on whom you ask, the Henderson City Council voted Monday to adopt the 2025-26 budget.
But because of the uncertainty and confusion generated since that meeting, a special called meeting has been scheduled for 12 noon on Monday, June 16 to make official the formal adoption of the $54 million budget.
Information about the special called meeting comes from City Clerk Tracey Kimbrell. The meeting will take place at City Hall in City Council Chambers, 134 Rose Ave.
In a follow-up question from WIZS News Tuesday evening about whether the budget had been voted on, City Manager/City Attorney Hassan Kingsberry said it had been, when the council voted to increase a line item in the budget about McGregor Hall.
Whichever of these two votes was intended to adopt the budget, it’s apparently been decided by virtue of the upcoming special called meeting that neither one of the votes on Monday night was formal enough.
According to information in the agenda packet, the Council was to consider CAF 25-45 – adoption of the FY 26 annual budget.
Otherwise, as the information below indicates, the process leading up to the vote had been very productive despite some difficulties with data loss and the need to adjust the water and sewer rates. Information from the agenda packet reads as follows:
So while a consensus may have been reached following the budget work sessions and a public hearing, a vote specifically to formally adopt the budget did not occur at the Monday meeting.
Otherwise, another roll call vote was taken following Council Member Tami Walker’s motion to reinstate Michael Venable as mayor pro tem. That motion failed in a 5-3 vote, which means that Council Member Garry Daeke remains mayor pro tem. Council Members Sara Coffey, Lamont Noel, Sam Seifert, Ola Thorpe-Cooper and Daeke voted against the motion; Council Members Geraldine Champion, Tami Walker and Venable voted yes.
Council Member Noel brought up for discussion hiring an independent legal counsel for the purpose of reviewing recent city employee surveys and complaints that have surfaced as a result of the surveys.
Following some discussion, Council Member Seifert made a motion, seconded by Daeke, to approve hiring the firm, which will be tasked with conducting a complete review of the information contained in the surveys to render an independent and unbiased report on the findings. The motion was approved in a 5-3 vote, with Coffey, Noel, Seifert, Daeke and Thorpe-Cooper voting yes and Walker, Venable and Champion voting no.
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SportsTalk: Major League Ballparks
/by Scout HughesSportsTalk 12:30 p.m. M-Th
Scout Hughes and Doc Ayscue talk about the Major League Ballparks that they have been to and the ones they want to visit.
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