— information courtesy of Vance County Schools
Vance County Schools recognized three outstanding students as the October Student Spotlights for the 2025-2026 academic year. Ayden Massey of Zeb Vance Elementary, Rosa Lopez of L.B. Yancey Elementary, and Adriana Lopez-Villatoro from Pinkston Street Elementary, have been honored for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.
The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools in partnership with the Vance County Public School Foundation, highlights students who go above and beyond. These remarkable students embody qualities inclusive of kindness, dedication, and a strong commitment to personal growth and service to others.
Ayden Massey, 5th grader at Zeb Vance Elementary
Zeb Vance Elementary proudly recognizes 5th grader Ayden Massey as their 2025–2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Nominated by the Zeb Vance staff, Ayden exemplifies what it means to be a SOARing Eagle—Showing Self-Control, Offering Peer Support, Actively
Listening and Learning, and Respecting Everyone. A bright and curious AIG student, Ayden consistently demonstrates responsibility, respect, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning.
Highly involved in school life, Ayden participates in BETA Club, Safety Patrol, RoboVance, Flag Team, and AIG, where he continues to strengthen his leadership skills and passion for exploration. His favorite subject is science because of the hands-on experiments, especially those related to the water cycle and jet stream.
Outside the classroom, Ayden enjoys reading, completing his “reading marathon,” playing games, and spending time with his family. He especially admires his mother, Tiffany Massey, for her love, strength, and constant support.
Ayden’s favorite book series is I Survived, his favorite movie is Despicable Me 4, and his favorite song is Wellerman. Recently, he enjoyed learning about the Boston Tea Party and the Shot Heard Around the World, which deepened his interest in history.
Looking ahead, Ayden dreams of becoming an astronaut, a goal inspired by his fascination with space, satellites, and the mysteries beyond Earth. If he could have a superpower, he would choose invisibility, just for the fun of sneaking around. And if granted one wish, he would wish for an infinite supply of tacos.
When asked what advice he has to share with other students, Ayden said: “Work hard and always try to do your best. It’s not about being the best, but trying your best.” Driven by curiosity, respect, and a love of learning, Ayden Massey is an outstanding example of what it means to be a Zeb Vance Eagle—soaring high with purpose, kindness, and integrity.
Rosa Lopez, 4th grader, L.B. Yancey Elementary
L.B. Yancey Elementary proudly celebrates 4th grader Rosa X. Lopez as the school’s 2025–2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Nominated by her teachers and school staff, Rosa exemplifies what it means to be a leader, learner, and role model at L.B. Yancey. She consistently demonstrates outstanding character, academic excellence, and a genuine desire to help others. Rosa stands out as a student who leads by example, always respectful, kind, and inclusive. She takes initiative in class, guiding group discussions and supporting her classmates whenever they need help.
Rosa’s favorite subject is math, because she believes it helps her gain knowledge that will be valuable in the future. She also enjoys science experiments, especially those that let her explore real-world concepts like precipitation and evaporation. Outside the classroom, Rosa stays active in several school programs, including the Yancey Girls Club, AIG, Orchestra Club, and Robotics Club, where she continues to grow in teamwork, creativity, and confidence.
When she is not at school, Rosa enjoys playing hide-and-seek and doing homework with her sisters, Grace and Annid. She also loves reading chapter books, especially the I Survived series, and watching movies like Goosebumps and I, Robot.
Rosa’s role models are her parents, Jose and Brittany Lopez, whom she admires for their hard work and kindness toward others. Inspired by their example, Rosa dreams of becoming a doctor so she can help people and make a difference in her community.
When asked what advice she would give to other students, Rosa said: “They should be strong and work very hard.” She believes success comes from perseverance and a positive attitude.
Her teachers, classmates, and family all agree that Rosa Lopez is a shining example of the excellence, empathy, and leadership that define L.B. Yancey Elementary.
Adriana Lopez-Villatoro, 5th grader, Pinkston Street Elementary
Pinkston Street Elementary proudly named 4th grader Adriana Lopez-Villatoro as its 2025–2026 Student Spotlight. Nominated by her teacher, Ms. Jennivise Lindsay, Adriana is being celebrated for her outstanding dedication, leadership, and positive attitude toward learning. She is known for her patience and enthusiasm when helping classmates. Whether she is working on a group project, volunteering to assist teachers, or participating in school events, she leads by example.
Adriana’s favorite subject is science, where she enjoys hands-on experiments like exploring the water cycle and learning about climate change. She has a natural curiosity and loves making new discoveries. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her friends and being someone others can count on for support and encouragement.
In her free time, Adriana loves reading Dork Diaries, listening to relaxing jazz and rap music, and watching movies, though she admits she avoids the scary ones! She admires Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter for their creativity and talent, and she hopes to bring that same passion into her own future goals. Adriana dreams of becoming either a scientist or a veterinarian, inspired by her love for animals and her desire to make a difference in the world.
If she could have any superpower, Adriana would choose teleportation, admitting with a smile that sometimes “the bus takes too long.” When asked what advice she would give to others, she shared: “Keep focusing and following your dreams—never give up.”
Her favorite part about being a student at Pinkston Street Elementary is the opportunity to help others and be friends with everyone. She wishes for all kids to “stop, think about what they are doing, and get along.” That thoughtful perspective shows the maturity and kindness that make Adriana such a special part of her school community.
Adriana Lopez-Villatoro shines as a role model for her peers and a proud representative of Pinkston Street Elementary’s spirit of excellence and compassion.
Cooperative Extension with Wayne Rowland: Small Fruit Orchards
/by WIZS StaffWayne Rowland, on the Vance County Cooperative Extension Report:
Small fruit orchards can be grown well with selection and planning.
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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SportsTalk: Vipers Head To Wendell for Friday Night
/by Laura GabelUPDATE – FINAL SCORE
Vance County 48
East Wake 19
RECAP MONDAY ON SPORTSTALK
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Building on some positive statistics from last week’s Homecoming game against the Heritage Huskies, Vance County Vipers Head Coach Aaron Elliott is feeling optimistic as he and his staff prepare for Friday’s away game against the East Wake Warriors.
Although the Vipers were handed a loss last week, Elliott told WIZS’s Scout Hughes and George Hoyle that he was pleased with the rushing yards – 286 – and the most points on the board – 33. – that the Vipers put up.
“We did a lot of things that we knew we could do – we just hadn’t done it yet,” Elliott said on Thursday’s SportsTalk.
Last week’s game plan stuck with the X’s and O’s used in previous games, but the coaching staff decided to move junior Harry Cheek to the backfield after watching him in recent practices. Cheek, who’d had three carries up until last week, rushed for 160 yards against the Huskies.
Elliott said this week’s practice has been one of the best all season, and he said the players are playing with more confidence as a result of their level of play last week.
As the season winds down, Elliott said these last games are key if the Vipers have a hope at making the playoffs.
“If we can get our defense playing like we know they can, get the defense dialed in” and more focused, Elliott said there’s a shot. The team has worked on ball control and ball security this week.
As Elliott reviewed the stats from last week, he said one thing caught his eye – “we held Heritage to 10 third downs. That’s big.”
He and the coaching staff have emphasized to the team this week that they need to win first and third downs to stay competitive on the field.
The Warrior’s offense seems to be a balance of run and throw, Elliott said, but “they’ve got a mobile quarterback that we’ve got to contain.” The defense needs to keep him in the pocked and keep pressure on him.
Despite the disappointing 1-7 record, Elliott said his team doesn’t quit. “We don’t quit. We don’t give up,” he said. “My hats off to them. They play hard to the end.”
Week 10 High School Football Games in our Area:
Vance County travels to East Wake High School for Week 10 of the 2025 season on Friday, October 24th and you can hear all the action on WIZS 1450AM, 100.1FM, and online at wizs.com with pregame starting around 6:50 p.m. and kickoff at 7:00 p.m.
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Henderson City Council Gives Go-Ahead To Pursue CDBG Funding For Kings Daughters Park Revitalization
/by Laura GabelIn a special called meeting, the Henderson City Council approved Friday morning to move ahead with a grant application to make significant renovations to Kings Daughters Park, including making it handicap accessible for multi-generational users.
As interim City Manager Paylor Spruill explained, this Community Development Block Grant funding is a variation that does not require housing construction; rather, it’s for neighborhood revitalization.
The meeting was called to allow for a required second public hearing on the matter. Four individuals spoke during the public hearing.
The grant also requires no match, and the initial $150,000 would be used to complete Phase 1, said Kendrick Vann, director of the Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Department and assistant to the city manager.
In addition to improving the park’s accessibility, Phase 1 would also enhance the amphitheater, allowing for future concerts in the park, Vann said.
The total price tag when Phase 2 is completed, would be about $1.25 million and would include shelters and a walking trail for health and wellness.
Talks are under way to create an environmental design for the park, located at 600 W. Montgomery Street. Vann said this project fits with the focus on revitalization of the Elmwood and West End areas of the city.
Vann said the Kerr-Tar COG has been instrumental in getting paperwork for the grant completed and submitted, and with Council support, it can be completed before the looming deadline.
Vann said the project has received letters of support from a variety of community entities, including Vance County, Smart Start, FVW Opportunity, Inc. and Gateway CDC.
Spruill said to expect to hear something in early 2026.
Follow These Tips To Keep Trick-Or-Treaters Safe On Halloween
/by WIZS Staff— From the office of Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame
The Halloween holiday is quickly approaching, and many in Vance County have already been participating in fun and spooky activities. Before you head out to participate in trick-or-treating, haunted houses or costume parties, keep in mind these tips from Sheriff Curtis R. Brame to help you and your family stay safe while you enjoy the festivities.
If you plan to go out in search of treats, parents and guardians should take the time to check their local sex offender registry at https://sexoffender.ncsbi.gov/. At this webpage you can view a map of registered sex offenders’ addresses in your area and also set up an alert that will notify you if a sex offender moves to your area.
Once you have determined the best route for treat-seeking, Sheriff Curtis R. Brame hopes you will follow these basic safety tips to keep your little ghouls and goblins safe:
Unfortunately, Halloween is one of the deadliest days of the year for pedestrians, so if you plan to be driving around your neighborhood amongst the spooky trick-or-treaters, make sure to remain vigilant to prevent unnecessary tragedy. When driving on Halloween, remember:
If you plan to stay inside and hand out candy rather than joining the festive crowds, you can still help keep little ones safe:
“Halloween is a great time for families and friends to celebrate the fall season, which means there may be a large number of people out and about enjoying the festivities,” noted Sheriff Curtis R. Brame. “It is important to take extra precautions on busy holidays like this one to help you and everyone in our community can have a safe and enjoyable time. We can work together to make sure that the only scary thing about this Halloween is the spooky decorations and ghoulish costumes!”
Contact the Sheriff’s Office at 252.738.2200 to learn more.
Vance County Schools’ October ‘Student Spotlight’ Honorees
/by WIZS Staff— information courtesy of Vance County Schools
Vance County Schools recognized three outstanding students as the October Student Spotlights for the 2025-2026 academic year. Ayden Massey of Zeb Vance Elementary, Rosa Lopez of L.B. Yancey Elementary, and Adriana Lopez-Villatoro from Pinkston Street Elementary, have been honored for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.
The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools in partnership with the Vance County Public School Foundation, highlights students who go above and beyond. These remarkable students embody qualities inclusive of kindness, dedication, and a strong commitment to personal growth and service to others.
Ayden Massey, 5th grader at Zeb Vance Elementary
Zeb Vance Elementary proudly recognizes 5th grader Ayden Massey as their 2025–2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Nominated by the Zeb Vance staff, Ayden exemplifies what it means to be a SOARing Eagle—Showing Self-Control, Offering Peer Support, Actively
Listening and Learning, and Respecting Everyone. A bright and curious AIG student, Ayden consistently demonstrates responsibility, respect, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning.
Highly involved in school life, Ayden participates in BETA Club, Safety Patrol, RoboVance, Flag Team, and AIG, where he continues to strengthen his leadership skills and passion for exploration. His favorite subject is science because of the hands-on experiments, especially those related to the water cycle and jet stream.
Outside the classroom, Ayden enjoys reading, completing his “reading marathon,” playing games, and spending time with his family. He especially admires his mother, Tiffany Massey, for her love, strength, and constant support.
Ayden’s favorite book series is I Survived, his favorite movie is Despicable Me 4, and his favorite song is Wellerman. Recently, he enjoyed learning about the Boston Tea Party and the Shot Heard Around the World, which deepened his interest in history.
Looking ahead, Ayden dreams of becoming an astronaut, a goal inspired by his fascination with space, satellites, and the mysteries beyond Earth. If he could have a superpower, he would choose invisibility, just for the fun of sneaking around. And if granted one wish, he would wish for an infinite supply of tacos.
When asked what advice he has to share with other students, Ayden said: “Work hard and always try to do your best. It’s not about being the best, but trying your best.” Driven by curiosity, respect, and a love of learning, Ayden Massey is an outstanding example of what it means to be a Zeb Vance Eagle—soaring high with purpose, kindness, and integrity.
Rosa Lopez, 4th grader, L.B. Yancey Elementary
L.B. Yancey Elementary proudly celebrates 4th grader Rosa X. Lopez as the school’s 2025–2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Nominated by her teachers and school staff, Rosa exemplifies what it means to be a leader, learner, and role model at L.B. Yancey. She consistently demonstrates outstanding character, academic excellence, and a genuine desire to help others. Rosa stands out as a student who leads by example, always respectful, kind, and inclusive. She takes initiative in class, guiding group discussions and supporting her classmates whenever they need help.
Rosa’s favorite subject is math, because she believes it helps her gain knowledge that will be valuable in the future. She also enjoys science experiments, especially those that let her explore real-world concepts like precipitation and evaporation. Outside the classroom, Rosa stays active in several school programs, including the Yancey Girls Club, AIG, Orchestra Club, and Robotics Club, where she continues to grow in teamwork, creativity, and confidence.
When she is not at school, Rosa enjoys playing hide-and-seek and doing homework with her sisters, Grace and Annid. She also loves reading chapter books, especially the I Survived series, and watching movies like Goosebumps and I, Robot.
Rosa’s role models are her parents, Jose and Brittany Lopez, whom she admires for their hard work and kindness toward others. Inspired by their example, Rosa dreams of becoming a doctor so she can help people and make a difference in her community.
When asked what advice she would give to other students, Rosa said: “They should be strong and work very hard.” She believes success comes from perseverance and a positive attitude.
Her teachers, classmates, and family all agree that Rosa Lopez is a shining example of the excellence, empathy, and leadership that define L.B. Yancey Elementary.
Adriana Lopez-Villatoro, 5th grader, Pinkston Street Elementary
Pinkston Street Elementary proudly named 4th grader Adriana Lopez-Villatoro as its 2025–2026 Student Spotlight. Nominated by her teacher, Ms. Jennivise Lindsay, Adriana is being celebrated for her outstanding dedication, leadership, and positive attitude toward learning. She is known for her patience and enthusiasm when helping classmates. Whether she is working on a group project, volunteering to assist teachers, or participating in school events, she leads by example.
Adriana’s favorite subject is science, where she enjoys hands-on experiments like exploring the water cycle and learning about climate change. She has a natural curiosity and loves making new discoveries. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her friends and being someone others can count on for support and encouragement.
In her free time, Adriana loves reading Dork Diaries, listening to relaxing jazz and rap music, and watching movies, though she admits she avoids the scary ones! She admires Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter for their creativity and talent, and she hopes to bring that same passion into her own future goals. Adriana dreams of becoming either a scientist or a veterinarian, inspired by her love for animals and her desire to make a difference in the world.
If she could have any superpower, Adriana would choose teleportation, admitting with a smile that sometimes “the bus takes too long.” When asked what advice she would give to others, she shared: “Keep focusing and following your dreams—never give up.”
Her favorite part about being a student at Pinkston Street Elementary is the opportunity to help others and be friends with everyone. She wishes for all kids to “stop, think about what they are doing, and get along.” That thoughtful perspective shows the maturity and kindness that make Adriana such a special part of her school community.
Adriana Lopez-Villatoro shines as a role model for her peers and a proud representative of Pinkston Street Elementary’s spirit of excellence and compassion.
WIZS Radio Henderson Local News 10-24-25 Noon
/by WIZS StaffListen On Air at 8am, 12pm, 5pm M-F
WIZS Radio ~ 100.1FM/1450AM
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Henderson City Council Special Called Meeting 10 A.M. Friday, Oct. 24 For CDBG Public Hearing, Closed Session
/by WIZS Staff– Public Notice from Henderson City Clerk Tracey Kimbrell
The Henderson City Council will hold a Special Called Meeting on Friday, October 24, 2025, to hold a Public Hearing to solicit input on local community development needs in relation to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for a project in the community and to hold a closed session pursuant to NC General Statute regarding a Personnel Matter. The meeting will take place at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall in City Council Chambers, 134 Rose Avenue. The public is welcome.
The City of Henderson anticipates submitting a CDBG application in 2025. Information on the amount of funding available, the requirements on benefit to low-and-moderate income persons, eligible activities, and plans to minimize displacement and provide displacement assistance as necessary will be available. Citizens will also be given the opportunity to provide oral and written comments on Henderson’s use of CDBG funds. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend.
The meeting will be streamed at youtube.com/@CityofHenderson-NC
Keep in mind that is just for viewing, not for commenting.
Warren County Meeting Oct. 30 On Utility-Scale Solar Projects
/by WIZS StaffThe Warren County Board of Commissioners has scheduled a listening session on Utility-Scale Solar Projects in Warren County for the public on Thursday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. at the Armory Civic Center located at 501 US Hwy 158 Bus E in Warrenton.
This meeting is part of the county’s ongoing efforts to adopt a Unified Development Ordinance – a consolidated document for all ordinances and regulations pertaining to building and development throughout the county.
The listening session will give the public an update on where the county is in the process of updating the existing ordinance language around Utility-Scale (or level 3) Solar development, and ask questions of the board and various representatives knowledgeable about the process, including Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments, N.C. State University’s Dept. of Agricultural
Agricultural and Resource Economics, as well as county staff.
Questions can be submitted in advance to Planning Director Mark Bloomer at markbloomer@warrencountync.gov. Similar questions may be consolidated for answer at the meeting in the interest of time.
WIZS Radio Henderson Local News 10-23-25 Noon
/by WIZS StaffListen On Air at 8am, 12pm, 5pm M-F
WIZS Radio ~ 100.1FM/1450AM
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Cooperative Extension with Jamon Glover: The Fatherhood Toolkit
/by WIZS StaffJamon Glover, on the Vance County Cooperative Extension Report:
This segment has a few brief tips on how to be better prepared for disasters. It also reminds license holders of an upcoming pesticide class and announces an upcoming Master Gardener training course.
Links — go.ncsu.edu/
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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