Tag Archive for: #granvillecountynews

Municipal Elections Nov. 4 In Granville County

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Voters in the upcoming Nov. 4 municipal elections in Oxford will have two choices for mayor and will choose from among seven candidates for four seats on the city’s board of commissioners.

According to information from the Granville County Board of Elections, Oxford Mayor Guillermo Nurse will face opposition from James W. Crawford, Jr. in the upcoming nonpartisan election.

The following individuals, listed in alphabetical order, have filed for seats on the city’s board of commissioners:

Quon Bridges (incumbent)

Scotty Brooks (incumbent)

Sandra Compton

Courtney Crudup

Kate Kelly

Karen McGhee

Martha Wrenn

The top four vote-getters will win seats on the board, said Granville County Board of Elections Director Tonya Burnette.

In Stovall, Jeffrey G. Stovall is the lone filer in the mayor’s race. Mayor Mike Williford did not file for re-election.

And Burnette said none of the sitting town commissioners filed for re-election, so voters will select two candidates for seats on the town commission. The top two vote-getters will be elected.

Candidates for Stovall Town Commissioner are:

Phylicia N. Barker

Tammy Hughes

Vicki Reid

Tiana Royster

David Rivenbark (filed for unexpired term that ends in 2027)

Absentee voting begins Friday, Oct. 3 and Oct. 21 is the deadline to request an absentee ballot.  The deadline to register to vote is Friday, Oct. 10, according to information on the Granville County Board of Elections website.

In-person early voting begins on Thursday, Oct. 16 and continues through Saturday, Nov. 1.

Polling places are open on Election Day, Nov. 4, from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Visit https://www.granvillecounty.org/315/Board-of-Elections to learn more.

County Employees Donate 650 Pounds Of Food, Personal Care Items To ACIM

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— Information courtesy of Granville County Public Information Officer Terry Hobgood

Granville County Government employees collected 650 pounds of food and personal care items to benefit Area Congregations in Ministry, the county’s food bank.

The Granville County Board of Elections was recognized for collecting the most donations per employee.

Summer can be especially difficult for food pantries; food insecurity increases with children out of school and donations often slow down. Granville County staff wanted to do their part to help bridge that gap and support neighbors in need.

“We appreciate the generosity of Granville County employees and thank each one that donated for their support,” said ACIM Executive Director Ann Riley. “ACIM has experienced an increase in client registration and truly values the support from our community.”

If you are interested in holding a food drive to support ACIM or supporting their upcoming summer “Backpack Buddies” program, which provides children from food-insecure homes with healthy weekend meals during the school year, reach out to director@acimgranville.org for details on how to get started. Currently, ACIM’s greatest needs are rice, dry beans, peanut butter, jelly, instant potatoes, pasta, pasta sauce, and breakfast items. They accept donations Monday through Friday.

To learn more about ACIM or to donate, visit www.acimgranville.org.

N.C. State Fair Accepting Entries For Competitions From Cakes And Canning To Crochet And Crafts Through Sept. 15

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If you have ever dreamed of winning a ribbon at the N.C. State Fair, now is the time to figure out what you want to enter and sign up! The State Fair is now accepting entries for the 2025 fair, Oct. 16-26. If winning a ribbon at the fair is on your bucket list, now is the time to enter this year’s fair competitions.

The State Fair offers many competition categories such as arts and photography, culinary, livestock, fruit and vegetable production, hobbies and handicrafts, flowers, LEGO creations and more.

“Our competitions highlight the talents of the residents of North Carolina,” said Kent Yelverton, N.C. State Fair director. “Whether your talent is growing giant vegetables, raising champion goats, cross-stitching or crocheting, painting rocks, scrapbooking, photography, flower arranging or more, the fair likely features a competition for you.”

Every year the State Fair reviews the competition offerings looking to include newer crafting trends, attract more competitors and improve the shows for fairgoers. The State Fair Flower Show will see some changes in 2025 with each show highlighting different varieties of individual plants.

“This is to ensure that we can accommodate as many competitors as possible in this popular fair competition category,” said Yelverton. “All the same competition categories will be included but they may only be represented in one of the three shows held during the fair. Flower show competitors should carefully review this year’s show information, including entry drop-off dates and times, when entering the flower show.”

The State Fair also offers a variety of livestock shows, with individual classes based on the animal’s species, breed, age and weight class. Exhibitors will find both junior and open categories.

If any of these competitions sound interesting to you, consider entering today. You could be one of the next blue-ribbon winners. Only a few competitions require an entry fee.

Information on how to enter a competition can be found on the State Fair’s website, ncstatefair.org. Under the “Competitions” tab, you will find everything there is to know about categories, rules and deadlines. The deadline for entering most competitions is Sept. 15. Read the General Entries Premium Book and Livestock Entries Premium Book for detailed descriptions of events and regulations.

Online registration and paper entry forms are found under the “Forms and General Rules” tab in each department. Entrants are also required to submit digital W-9 forms to receive prize money.

Email ncsfcompetitions@ncagr.gov with additional questions. “We’re excited to see what people will enter and we wish everyone the best of luck,” said Yelverton. “Let’s make this a record year for our competitions.”

KVA’s Early Learning Center Gains Full Accreditation Status From Cognia

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— information courtesy of Kerr-Vance Academy

The Early Learning Center at Kerr-Vance Academy has earned full accreditation status by Cognia, an internationally recognized education accrediting body.

The ELC is for children from 18 months of age through 4 years, according to information from KVA Head of School Matthew McLaughlin.

In a press release announcing the news, McLaughlin stated that KVA’s K-12 program has maintained accreditation for more than 50 years, and with the addition of the ELC, it becomes the only fully accredited Early Learning Center in the area.

“This accomplishment reflects our deep commitment to educational excellence and holistic growth from the very beginning of a child’s development,” McLaughlin said.

“We’re proud to provide families with an exceptional foundation of learning that supports every stage of their journey.”

The accreditation process includes areas such as curriculum, staff expertise and dedication to continuous improvement.

McLaughlin stated that it also solidifies the school’s reputation as a leader in early childhood education across the region.

For more information about the KVA Early Learning Center and enrollment opportunities, visit www.kerrvance.com.

NCDMV Offers 2-Year Extension For Driver License Renewals

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— information courtesy of the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles

North Carolina drivers have two extra years to renew their driver licenses, thanks to Senate Bill 391 and efforts by the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles reduce wait times and long lines at DMV offices across the state.

The new law went into effect July 1, but there are some exceptions that drivers need to know about: the law is only for Class C licenses, which is the standard passenger vehicle license, and it’s for in-state driving.

The moratorium, in effect through Dec. 31, 2027, applies only to Class C licenses and allows continued in-state driving privileges during the two-year grace period, according to information from the NCDMV. “Expired licenses will not be valid for any purpose other than establishing the license holder’s driving privilege, including identification purposes and air travel, and may not be recognized by other states or federal entities. The moratorium does not apply to commercial driver licenses, or any licenses that are suspended, revoked, or cancelled,” the NCDMV statement read.

“Thank you to the Legislature and Governor for this temporary measure to provide flexibility for North Carolina drivers while we work to address the increased demand for our services,” said NCDMV Commissioner Paul Tine. “Customers may present expired Class C licenses for in-state driving privileges only if the expiration date is July 1, 2025, or later. However, we advise our customers to renew their licenses to ensure they remain valid for identification purposes, including to fly, rent a car, get a bank loan, fill a prescription and have documents notarized.”

Saturday Service Hours Resume at 20 Locations

Beginning again this weekend, and through Aug. 23, NCDMV will offer walk-in services at 20 locations on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., no appointment needed. Available services include driver license and ID card renewals, duplicates, address changes, REAL ID issuance, and road tests for those who have completed knowledge and written tests.

Before visiting, check if your needs can be met online. NCDMV provides many services digitally, such as license and ID renewals, duplicates, address changes, and voter registration applications. Visit https://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/offices-services/online/Pages/default.aspx to find out if you can conduct your business online instead of heading to the local DMV office.

Masonic Home for Children

MHCO Gala Features UNC Basketball Legend Phil Ford

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The 3rd annual charity gala for the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford was a success by all accounts. Attendees enjoyed fellowship over the course of the evening, and the live and silent auctions proved a fun way to raise money to support the children and families that MHCO serves.

But credit long-time Mason Gene Cobb with landing the guest speaker for the evening. They’d known each other since college, when Cobb was manager of the basketball team.

The school? Carolina.

The speaker? None other than Number 12 himself, Phil Ford.

“He kept the stats my senior game against Duke,” Ford told WIZS. In fact, Cobb presented the UNC legendary point guard with that stat sheet, along with a piece of the net that was cut down in that 87-83 win over the Blue Devils in Carmichael Auditorium in 1978.

“He’s a great friend…he’s been a Mason for years and he asked me to speak,” Ford continued.

MHCO Marketing & Events Coordinator Charlie Roberson said, “His heartfelt words, shared wisdom, and connection to The Masonic Home for Children made the evening even more impactful and inspiring for all who attended.”

Ford said he’d visited the Oxford home to spend time with the kids there when he was at Carolina, and later when he was playing pro ball.

“Any time you can do something for kids, or do something for someone else that really can’t do anything to pay you back,” Ford said, you will reap rewards later.

“So many people have stepped up and helped me in my life with the things that I’ve been through,” Ford said. “Coach Smith, my family. I don’t know where I would be without them.”

And that was the message that Ford had for those at the gala. “Basically, it was just thanking them for having the heart and the will to want to do something for someone else…for our fellow man,” Ford said.

Offering encouragement to others who share a passion for service and giving back to the community is a message that never goes out of style. And MHCO leadership recognized the efforts of its staff for their dedication to the children in residence, those in attendance for their support at the gala and throughout the year, and to the numerous Masonic groups and other individuals who sponsored the event.

“A special thanks goes to our generous sponsors, whose unwavering support and generosity made this event possible. Your commitment to our cause plays a vital role in ensuring that every child at The Masonic Home for Children receives the care, education, and love they deserve,” Roberson said in a press release following the event.

Sponsors include Wayne Baker, Eddie Gaskins, Luther Starling Jr., Braxton & Vickie Jones, Steve Safrit, Brandon & Terri Dunn, Larry Thompson, Larry Payne, The Herring Family, Oxford Orphanage Alumni Assoc., North Carolina Masonic Foundation, Randy Cline, Oasis Shriners, Pinnacle Financial, Patricia and Lou Smith, Amran Shriners, Sudan Shriners, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Otis, Steve Norris, Athelstan, Allan Mann, Johnny Surles, City of Oxford, Raleigh York Rite, WhiteStone Masonic & Eastern Star Community and Granville Medical Center.

To learn more about the Masonic Home for Children at Oxford, visit www.mhc-oxford.org.

Garman Troup Gets Governor’s Volunteer Service Award For Work Building Ramps With Granville County Senior Services

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The Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center has recognized Granville County Senior Services volunteer Garman Troup with the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award at a ceremony held recently at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

Senior Services Director Kathy May nominated Troup for his contributions to the county’s program to build and install ramps for residents in need.

Troup moved to Granville County during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been leading volunteer ramp builders for the past four years. He is a retired contractor and former Housing and Home Improvement Director at Resources for Seniors in Wake County. During his 35-year career, he built more than 2,500 ramps and wasted no time in bringing his decades of skill and knowledge to helping seniors in Granville County.

“A home can suddenly turn into a prison when a physical impairment or disability occurs,” said May. “We have been so lucky to have a person like Garman dedicate so much time, energy, and passion into helping our residents maintain freedom and quality of life through this simple and imperative addition to their homes.”

Troup has been responsible for the construction of approximately 50 ramps for older adults in Granville County since 2021. He has led numerous teams filled with church groups, Boy Scout troops, and seasoned carpenters who were willing to dedicate their time to help make this program successful.

TownTalk: Granville County Tourism Lines Up Events In July And Beyond

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As summer heats up, so too does the events calendar in Granville County – there’s plenty to do, from outdoor activities to those inside air-conditioned environs.

Grab a ticket for the weekend performance of Drinking Habits 2: Caught in the Act, a production of Granville Little Theatre. The curtain rises at 7 p.m. for evening performances run from Thursday, July 10 to Saturday, July 12 and there’s a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, July 13. The comedy is the sequel to last season’s Drinking Habits, featuring the Sisters of Perpetual Sewing, and the antics involved as they try to save an orphanage.

“It’s guaranteed to be a good time,” said Granville Tourism Director Angela Allen.

The show takes place at the Ox Theatre, located inside the Oxford City Hall, 300 Williamsboro St.

Find a link to tickets at www.visitgranvillenc.com.

Stroll along the sidewalks of downtown Oxford to snatch up some cool summer discounts at the July 12 Tent Sale. A number of businesses are scheduled to take part in a 21st century version of the old-fashioned Sidewalk Sale. Bliss Nutrition, C Squared, Nan’s, Home Decorator Shoppe, Angel Wings Book Store and Bistro, The Hub on Main, Southern Style Mercantile and Makynlee
& Co. will have some discounted prices on some really great items, Allen said. The sales are sure to be hot on the outside, but customers can find some great deals – and some A/C – inside, too, she said.

The Oxford Armory Farmer’s Market is hosting its own version of an Iron Chef competition on Saturday, July 12. Three groups will compete for bragging rights as they use local produce found at the market. This event is being held in partnership with the Culinary Arts program at Vance-Granville Community College.

The market, located on the grounds of the former National Guard Armory at 105 W. Spring St., launched in May. Its summer hours are 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

A couple of weeks later, on July 26, come to the market to take part in an event that pairs yoga and animal adoption. The Pose, Paws, Adopt event will include yoga and adoptable animals from the Granville County Animal Shelter from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.

“All fees for the yoga class will be donated to the animal shelter or toward your adoption fee,” Allen said.

This is one example of partnership that Allen finds delightful.

“That’s what I love so much,” she said, “the collaboration to make these things happen. It’s not just an entity standing alone, but making those partnerships with different businesses, organizations and nonprofits” that not only attracts visitors, but also has a positive impact in the local community.

Here’s a quick rundown of other activities in July and beyond:

  • Creedmoor’s City Tavern, 404 N. Main St., hosts the First Annual 90’s Field Day on Saturday, July 12, where Allen says “you get to act like a big kid for the day.” Check out all the details at https://www.facebook.com/CreedmoorCityTavern
  • The Town of Butner hosts Groovin’ at the Gazebo on Saturday, July 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. There will be lawn games, food trucks and fun for the whole family. Bryan’s Hill Band will perform on the brand-new performance stage at the park, located at 416 Central Ave.
  • Clement Farm presents the inaugural “Watermelon Crawl” event on Saturday, July 26 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Another family-friendly event that includes music by Blake Howell and all things watermelon. Tickets are $5, and kids 12 and under get in free. You can even learn how to do the Watermelon Crawl line dance. When you’re not dancin’ you may want to sit, so Allen said to bring a lawn chair. Clement Farm is located at 5081 Lucy Averette Rd. off Old Hwy. 75.
  • The 2nd annual Next Door Music Festival cranks up on Saturday, Aug. 16 for a full day of music, from Americana to emo and everything in between. Six bands will perform throughout the day, and 100 percent of the proceeds goes to Families Living Violence Free. The featured band is Ohio-based Noise Beneath the Floor. The festival will be staged on the grounds of the Armory from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and then the crowd will head over to Tobacco Wood Brewing Co. for an “after-party” from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Mark your calendars for Sept. 12-13 for the annual Hot Sauce Festival in downtown Oxford
  • Circle Sept. 20, when musicians take over downtown Creedmoor for the annual Creedmoor Music Festival
  • The Masonic Home for Children in Oxford Homecoming is scheduled for Oct. 11

Read more about these events and more at www.visitgranvillenc.com.

CLICK PLAY!

State Highway Patrol

‘Firecracker Booze It & Lose It’ In Full Force Through Holiday Weekend

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The N.C. Governor’s Highway Safety Program’s ‘Operation Firecracker Booze It & Lose It’ campaign is in full force through Sunday, July 6 to help keep the roadways safe as folks travel during the long Independence Day holiday weekend.

The Fourth of July holiday ranks as one of the deadliest periods on the nation’s roads, according to information from the program. The annual campaign uses public outreach and law enforcement to discourage impaired driving by performing more checkpoints and patrols on the days leading up to and following the holiday.

“We want everyone to enjoy the holiday and celebrate but getting behind the wheel after drinking is never worth the risk,” said GHSP Director Mark Ezzell. “Last year, 11,782 crashes were reported statewide involving drivers who were under the influence of alcohol. This is unacceptable. Law enforcement officers from every county in the state will be working this campaign to catch impaired drivers.”

A total of 176 alcohol-related crashes and five fatalities occurred on North Carolina roads during the Fourth of July weekend in 2024, according to crash data from the N.C. Department of Transportation. The “Booze It & Lose It” campaign serves as a reminder that there are severe consequences for reckless behavior.

“Celebrating the Fourth of July responsibly could not be simpler,” said Michael Panzarella, the chief of police for Emerald Isle, which helped kick off this year’s campaign. “What’s not simple are the impacts of someone choosing to drink and then drive. Decide in advance how to get home safely. Too often we see impaired drivers injure themselves and others when they make the choice to drive under the influence.”

There are plenty of ways to arrive safely to a destination, including designating a sober driver or calling a taxi or rideshare service. It is always good to plan ahead and work toward making a safer environment and a more enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Please visit NCDOT’s website to learn more about the campaign and consequences of impaired driving.

Reminders For Safe, Fun Independence Day Activities

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As the Independence Day holiday approaches, families and friends anticipate gathering for cookouts, outdoor activities and, of course, fireworks. But law enforcement officials and the American Red Cross have a long list of do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to make sure everyone stays safe on the water, on roadways or just in your own backyard.

Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame provided a list of reminders as the long holiday weekend draws near.

On average, North Carolina hospital emergency rooms see 197 fireworks injuries each year, with 70 percent of these injuries occurring in July.

You can help to reduce the number of fireworks-related injuries and be sure to follow the law by following these basic safety tips:

  1. Certain types of fireworks may be prohibited in the state or in your area. Research ahead of time to ensure you are following all laws and ordinances.
  2. Wear eye protection while lighting fireworks.
  3. Never allow children to light or handle fireworks of any kind, including sparklers.
  4. Light fireworks one at a time.
  5. Do not try to re-light fireworks that have not ignited fully. Soak them in water and dispose of them.
  6. Keep a safe distance from people, structures, and flammable materials.
  7. Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device while lighting the fuse.
  8. Keep a bucket of water or water hose nearby.
  9. Soak all spent fireworks in water before disposal to avoid a trash fire. Hot embers may remain long after the sparks have stopped!
  10. Always have fun!

Knowing the risks associated with the use of fireworks is not meant to diminish your fun, Brame said, but to encourage you and your family to be safe and avoid unnecessary injuries.

If you’re visiting the beach or the lake, it’s important to supervise children at all times. If you’re in a boat or other watercraft, every passenger needs to have – and wear – a lifejacket that fits properly.

Always use the “buddy” system when swimming – never swim alone, even if you consider yourself a strong swimmer. Be familiar with basic CPR life-saving techniques. Have rescue equipment near swimming pools such as rope and life-saving rings

Everyone knows about the dangers of drinking and driving, and that applies to boats and jet skis, too.

If you choose to stay on shore, remember to use sunglasses to protect your eyes – they’re more than just a stylish accessory. Other essentials include an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat for shade, sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

If you’re just in the backyard, anticipate how your pets may react to the noise and lights of fireworks. It’s best to keep them inside if possible, especially if they get anxious or nervous.

Have a current photo of your animals, just in case they get frightened and run away. If you shoot off fireworks in your backyard, inspect the yard for any debris before letting dogs and cats back outside.