TownTalk: Vance County Animal Shelter Receives Grant for Spay and Neuter

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Thanks to a collaboration that involves non-profit agencies, Vance County Animal Services and the Vance County Board of Commissioners, Animal Services Manager William Coker and his staff have $20,000 to spend on a spay/neuter program for dogs and cats.

When the folks at Ruin Creek Animal Protection Society passed along information about a $10,000 matching grant opportunity from Community Partnership for Pets, Coker asked the board of commissioners to participate. The board approved spending the $10,000 and – just like that – county residents can make an appointment to have their dogs and cats undergo the procedures that will render them unable to reproduce.

Spaying females is a little more expensive than neutering a male, Coker said on Monday’s TownTalk. A spay is in the $150 range under this program. But that $20,000 will go a long way to reduce the number of unwanted animals that end up at the shelter.

Coker said there are spay/neuter funds available to residents who already receive some type of state or federal assistance.

“I wanted to be able to offer that same service to anybody – the working class – just anybody that needed assistance,” he said.”We’re excited about it. We’re hoping that we can continue this program next year.”

Spaying and neutering dogs and cats is the best way that pet owners can help the shelter manage the unwanted pet population. “We’re trying to get ahead of the breeding season,” Coker said. “We’re going to have to stop it at the spay/neuter stage.”

One feral cat hanging out in an outbuilding on your property may seem fine, and there’s no harm in feeding it. But it doesn’t take long for one female cat to birth an average litter of six and before you know it, there are dozens of feral cats prowling around.

If this sounds familiar, and you’d like help to keep the cats you have without adding litters each year, give the Animal Services staff a call at 252.492.3136. It could take a few weeks to get an appointment, so please be patient. “We’ve got so many that we’re trying to do,” he said. “The first step is that initial phone call.”

Visit https://vancecounty.org and find Animal Services under the Departments menu to learn more about the services and hours of operation.

 

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Cooperative Extension with Wayne Rowland: Types of Gardens

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On the Vance County Cooperative Extension report from Wayne Rowland:

The different types of gardens to meet each gardener’s needs.

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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Vance County Schools Names March Student Spotlight Winners

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— information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools is proud to announce the recognition of outstanding students as the March Student Spotlights for the 2024-2025 academic year. Zahra Hendricks of Pinkston Street Elementary, Kanaelah Miles of L.B. Yancey Elementary, and Awwad Almawri at E.O. Young Elementary have been honored for their exceptional qualities and contributions to their school communities.

The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate exceptional students who are making a meaningful difference in their schools. These students have demonstrated excellence in their academics but also exhibited commendable qualities such as kindness, dedication, and a commitment to personal growth.

Zahra Hendricks, Pinkston Street Elementary 

Zahra Hendricks, a kindergarten student, is celebrated for her kindness, determination and academic excellence. Zahra’s warm and caring nature shines through in everything she does—whether it is offering a helping hand to a classmate in need or spreading joy with her bright personality. She is a dedicated learner who excels beyond her grade level, impressing her teachers and peers with her ability to read aloud to the class and tackle any assignment with enthusiasm. Zahra finds great joy in reading and math, as they challenge her and bring her happiness. She especially loves reading to her classmates and answering questions, both of which showcase her confidence and leadership in the classroom. Her passion for learning fuels her aspirations of becoming a doctor or nurse one day, driven by her desire to help others feel better.

Outside of school, Zahra enjoys playing with her Barbie Dreamhouse and dolls. She also loves watching her favorite shows, Barbie and Bluey. If she had a superpower, she would choose the ability to fly so she could travel anywhere she wants. Zahra dreams of visiting Disney World, and if she could go on an adventure, she would love to travel to Jamaica to spend time with her grandmother and family. Zahra admires her parents deeply, and appreciates their love and support for everything she does. Her kindness, intelligence and dedication make her a shining star at Pinkston Street Elementary. Her love for learning and her caring heart inspire those around her, and make her a role model for her peers. Zahra’s advice to other students is to always do their best and make good choices.

Kanaelah Miles, L.B. Yancey Elementary 

Kanaelah Miles, a dedicated fourth grader at L.B. Yancey Elementary, is celebrated for her strong work ethic, leadership qualities and positive influence on her school community. Nominated by Taylor Evans, she is a role model among her peers and is always ready to lend a helping hand, encourage others, and bring positivity to the classroom. She approaches her studies with curiosity, determination and a strong work ethic, and she consistently strives for excellence. Outside of academics, Kanaelah is actively involved in the SAVE Promise Club, Robotics, Yancey Girls Unstoppables, Boys & Girls Club and Beta Club, all of which demonstrate her commitment to teamwork and personal growth.

Writing is Kanaelah’s favorite subject because it allows her to express herself and take on new challenges. She dreams of becoming an elementary math teacher, inspired by her love of learning and her passion for helping others succeed. One of the most valuable lessons she has learned is to stay true to herself and not let words bring her down. If she could have any superpower, she would choose the ability to read minds, as she values honesty and understanding. Her biggest inspiration is her grandmother, who has guided her in knowing right from wrong and has helped shape her into the person she is today.

Kanaelah’s favorite thing about L.B. Yancey Elementary is the supportive and welcoming environment created by the staff and students. She finds motivation within herself, pushing herself to be confident and successful every day. She encourages her peers to stay active, work hard, and never give up on their goals. In the future, Kanaelah hopes to visit Jamaica to experience its beauty, try new foods, and enjoy swimming. If she had a magic wand, she would wish for more opportunities to participate in programs like Student Spotlight. With her resilience, positivity, and dedication to learning, Kanaelah is a true inspiration to her classmates and a proud representative of L.B. Yancey Elementary.

Awwad Almawri, E.O. Young Elementary

Awwad Almawri, a fifth-grade student at E.O. Young Elementary, is known for his enthusiasm, leadership and positive attitude. His teachers describe him as a dedicated student who approaches every challenge with curiosity and determination. Since arriving in the U.S., Awwad has made remarkable progress in learning English—going from knowing just a few words to confidently engaging in conversations and sharing his thoughts in class. His eagerness to learn and his kindness toward others make him a role model within the school community.

Math is Awwad’s favorite subject because he enjoys problem-solving and learning new concepts while strengthening his English skills. Outside of school, he spends his time playing soccer with his older brother, Eyad, whom he looks up to as a role model. He also enjoys doing homework and spending time with his siblings. Looking ahead, Awwad dreams of joining the Army, drawn to the honor and excitement of the career.

One of the lessons Awwad is most proud of mastering recently is multiplying decimals, a skill that challenged him but made him feel accomplished. If he could have any superpower, he would choose super speed to get places quickly. He also hopes to visit Egypt one day to see the Great Pyramids and experience the country’s rich history. His favorite part of being a student at E.O. Young Elementary is learning new words, excelling in math and seeing his friends every day. His advice to others is simple but powerful: listen to your teachers, work hard, and never give up.

If given a magic wand, Awwad would wish to grow up faster so he can pursue his dreams. His dedication, resilience, and passion for learning make him an inspiration to his peers and a proud representative of E.O. Young Elementary.

Congratulations to all of the March Student Spotlight recipients!

Warren County Site Of Kickoff Event To Mark ‘Small Farms Week’ Mar. 24-28

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The N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Small Farms Week begins Monday, Mar. 24 in Warren County, home of last year’s Small Farmer of the Year Patrick Brown of Brown Family Farms.

The kickoff event begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Warren County Armory Civic Center and includes a catered lunch, panel discussion and will culminate with a tour of Brown Family Farms.

Registration is required.

Small Farms Week is N.C. A&T State University’s annual tribute to small-scale agriculture. It will be held the week of March 24-28. The theme, “Next Gen Agriculture” will highlight the evolving farming practices and new technologies designed for environmental sustainability and resilience in this era of climate change. General registration for the luncheon is $35 and can be paid online through the registration link.

 

Small Farms Week was launched in 1987 by Cooperative Extension at N.C. A&T as a way to connect with small-scale farmers and those in limited-resource communities to ensure they receive the latest research-based information on farming techniques, new tools and technologies. It also gives the public a chance to meet their agricultural neighbors and learn about farm operations and food production.

 

To view the full schedule for Small Farms Week and register for events, including the kickoff, please visit: https://whova.com/portal/registration/3mr@v3iUCbUuwA9gCESQ/

Granville Museum April 6 Reception To Feature Two Local Favorites: John Penn And Mark Pace

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The Granville County Historical Museum will host an art unveiling and reception honoring a couple of local favorites – John Penn, one of three North Carolina signers of the Declaration of Independence, and Mark Pace, a local historian who brings Penn to life.

Artist Frank Timberlake photographed Pace back in October 2024 as he portrayed Penn during the annual Homecoming service at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Williamsboro. Timberlake put some of the photos on canvas and a collection of four of the works will be unveiled at the museum.

Pace is renowned in north central North Carolina and southside Virginia, Timberlake said, for his promotion, protection and portrayal of area history.

According to Pace, it is Mr. Penn who will be celebrated – and present – at the reception (which most likely means that Pace will be present, but he’ll be decked out in his full John Penn period dress).

The reception is on Sunday, April 6 from 2 p.m to 4 p.m. at the Granville County Historical Museum at 1 Museum Lane in Oxford.  The public is invited to attend.

 For more information, contact Toni Anne Wheeler at the museum at 919.693.9706 or Frank Timberlake at 919.805.0055.

Sheriff Curtis Brame: Suspect In Custody In Connection With Jan. 11 Murder

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From the office of Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame

 

On March 14, 2025, at approximately 10:30am, Law Enforcement Officers from the Vance County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations and the Henderson Police Department located Deon Bullock.  Bullock is now in the custody of the Vance County Sheriff’s Office.

Bullock was wanted in connection with the January 11, 2025 murder of Donnie Allen Ayscue.  

Detectives from the Vance County Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation investigated the incident. If you or anyone you know has information that will assist in any investigation, they are asked to contact the Vance County Sheriff’s Office or call 911. 

Cyber “Event” Disrupts Water Bill Payment Process For City Customers

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City officials are blaming a recent “cyber event” for a disruption in the way residents’ water bills are generated. The problem was brought to light three weeks ago – on Feb. 20 – and, as a result, some computer systems the city uses had to be taken offline.

At Monday’s City Council meeting, City Manager/Attorney Hassan T. Kingsberry told Council members that the city has “gotten rid of” the previous IT provider, whom he did not name, and said “we’re going to keep the city safe and this will not happen again.”

Details of exactly what happened are limited, but what is known is that people are still responsible for paying their water bills.

A recorded message sent to city residents stated that until the issues are resolved, “customers will not receive a utility bill or have pre-authorized payments deducted from their account.”

The city will not impose late fees or penalties while they work through the computer challenges created by the cyber “event,” it doesn’t mean you don’t have to pay your bill.

The recorded message provides information about how residents can pay water bills.

“While we are still able to collect payments, we cannot provide accurate account balances. The balances shown on MyGovhub are not correct, but you can still make payments through that platform. When making payments in person, please bring your utility bill and ensure you keep  your receipts for your records.

Appropriate legal notices will be sent to all impacted customers and employees regarding the cyber event.”

Kingsberry said he is working to get in-house IT support and announced at the Monday meeting that Leo Mata is the city’s new IT manager. Kingsberry said he hopes to get one – and possibly two additional employees to work specifically with network issues.

TownTalk: Around Old Granville – Historical Markers

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The state’s very first official historical marker was erected in 1936 – just a year after the Highway Historical Marker Commission was established. But where was it placed? Any ideas?

If you said Granville County, you’d be correct. The first marker honors John Penn, one of North Carolina’s three signers of the Declaration of Independence.

But Old Granville County – that four-county area that includes Vance, Warren and Franklin along with Granville – has a total of 57, said Mark Pace, local historian and North Carolina Room specialist at Oxford’s Thornton Library.

The state’s 100 counties are divided into 17 regions; Vance and Granville counties each boast 15 markers and are in Region G; Franklin and Warren, both in Region E, have seven and 20, respectively.

Pace and WIZS’s Bill Harris are tackling the topic of historic markers for the next few “Around Old Granville” segments of TownTalk. First up, Granville County.

The John Penn marker, located along Highway 15 in Stovall, was issued along with four others in the inaugural group, Pace said.

Interestingly, Granville County has the oldest marker, but also two of the newest: Camp Butner got a marker in 1989 and James E. Webb, who was instrumental in the creation of NASA and the space program, got a marker in 2018.

The commission started its work with the marker program as the country was emerging from the economic devastation of the Great Depression, which Pace said showed the state’s commitment to history. There are criteria for getting a marker approved and placed, he said, including placement in a prominent location on official state highways.

Webb’s marker, for example, is located along College Street in Oxford. He grew up a block away, Pace said.

Thomas Person has a historical marker in Granville County. He was probably the wealthiest person who ever lived in Granville County and owned 80,000 acres. But that’s not what got him a marker along Highway 158 back in 1972. His marker reads “Leader of popular movements: Regulation, Revolution and Antifederalism. His home in Goshen stood five miles north.”

Pace observes what he called “commemoration fever” when it comes to remembering historical figures or events. There seems to be renewed interest in history 50 or more years after an important event, he said.

“It’s kind of like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,” he said. Rockers aren’t considered until 25 years after their first record is released.

Horner Military Academy got a marker in 1939. It was known nationally because of the prominent people who attended the private school, which was established in 1851 by James JH. Horner.

There’s a marker for Henry Plummer Cheatham, who was born into slavery and served in the U.S. Congress from 1889-1893. Cheatham also was the superintendent of what is now Central Children’s Home for close to 30 years until his death in 1935. His marker can be seen on N.C. 96 at Eighth Street in Oxford.

Central Children’s Home – and the Masonic Home for Children, the other orphanage in Oxford, also have markers, placed in 1965 and 1936, respectively.

A marker for Mary Potter Academy was erected in 2005 along College Street, also known as U.S. 158 Business. Its inscription reads: “Founded by G.C. Shaw 1889 to educate African Americans. Named for a Presbyterian benefactor. Later a public school. Operated one block E.”

Bullock has one of five markers in Region G that identifies the Native American Trading Path that was subsequently used by colonists and settlers between Petersburg, VA and well into North Carolina – Hillsborough and beyond. There’s also a Trading Path marker in Vance County, but that’s a story for another day.

Check out all the historical markers in Granville County and across the state at https://www.dncr.nc.gov/about-us/history/division-historical-resources/nc-highway-historical-marker-program

 

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