Tag Archive for: #granvillecountynews

Granville Names New Economic Development Director

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-information courtesy of Granville County Public Information Officer Terry Hobgood

A seasoned professional in the area of economic development has been selected to be Granville County’s new economic development director.

Joseph Stallings is scheduled to begin his new job on Mar. 18, bringing with him 13 years’ experience in economic development in Garner, Benson and most recently as director of economic development for the North Carolina Railroad Company in Raleigh.

“I am excited and honored to have been selected as Granville County’s next Economic Development Director,” said Stallings. “Granville is an exciting place to continue my career and take the many lessons I have learned about smart and sustainable economic development on the local and statewide level. It’s an exciting opportunity to come to Granville in this moment and build off the work that has been happening here for so long.”

In nearly two years with the N.C. Railroad, Stallings facilitated statewide and local economic development efforts in partnership with the N.C. Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina as well as municipal and county governments to recruit and expand existing industries in North Carolina, according to a press statement from Granville County Public Information Officer Terry Hobgood.

Stallings oversaw the planning and implementation for the N.C. Railroad’s Build Ready Sites program, ensuring that locations along existing railroad infrastructure were ready to welcome new or expanding industries by reducing red tape and development delays with local regulatory and permitting agencies. Stallings worked with partners across North Carolina to ensure that all areas with existing rail infrastructure were prepared to handle industry expansion.

From 2015-2022, Stallings was economic development director for the town of Garner, managing all major recruitment and expansion efforts as well as its downtown development efforts and small business development program. He also oversaw the operations of the non-profit Garner Economic Development Corporation to ensure a like-minded approach with the non-profit board, the Town of Garner, and Wake County.

Stallings developed Garner’s first economic development strategic plan and worked with local property owners to market developable land that could attract desirable employers to Garner resulting in the recruitment of the largest industrial investment in Garner’s history.

He got his start in local government in Benson and was its economic development and media coordinator from 2011-2015. While in Benson, he negotiated recruitment and retention incentive packages, led Benson’s media efforts, and implemented Benson’s Main Street North Carolina program. Stallings also ran local business development incentives programs, including the town’s façade improvement grants and revolving loan funds for local business start-ups.

“My time in rural and suburban but growing towns like Garner and Benson has prepared me for this role,” Stalling said. “I plan to work with local and regional partners to ensure that Granville County is positioned to compete as a preferred destination for top employers now and for decades to come.”

Stallings is a graduate of the Master of Public Administration program at Appalachian State University, where he also received a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in Town, City, and County Management with a minor in Regional Planning.  During his professional career, Stallings has continued to pursue professional development educational opportunities and has graduated from the Municipal and County Administration and Local Government Federal Credit Union Fellows program at the UNC School of Government. Stallings is also a graduate of the Rural Economic Development Institute at the North Carolina Rural Center in Raleigh and received certification from Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute.

Maria Parham Offers Program To Raise Awareness of Colorectal Cancer

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Maria Parham Health will host a Lunch and Learn program on Thursday, Mar. 21 to talk about colorectal cancer early detection and prevention. Seats are still available for this event; register online at MariaParham.com or by calling 252.436.1605. The program will be from 12 noon to 1 p.m. and will be held in the classroom of the hospital, located at 566 Ruin Creek Rd.

According to information from the American College of Radiology, colorectal cancer is now the leading cancer killer in men under 50 and the second leading cause of cancer death for women under 50.

African Americans are also the most likely to die from this terrible disease.

But colorectal cancer is nearly always treatable if caught early and can even be prevented through timely screening. It is recommended that you should talk to your doctor about colorectal screening beginning at age 45.

“We are committed to raising awareness about colorectal cancer and providing our community with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health,” said Kimberly Smith, Director of the Maria Parham Cancer Center.

“Through events like this, we hope to highlight the importance of early detection and screening in preventing colorectal cancer, ultimately saving lives,”Smith said.

Federal law requires private insurers to cover not only colonoscopy – but also virtual colonoscopy and other less-invasive screening options at no cost to patients.

A virtual colonoscopy is an American Cancer Society-recommended screening exam to be done every five years for those at average risk. The virtual exam may also be an option for those at increased risk who can’t physically tolerate a colonoscopy. The more people are aware of virtual colonoscopy as an option, the more people choose to be screened, and the more lives will be saved.

The Lunch and Learn Event will feature board-certified gastroenterologist Varnita Tahiliani, MD, who will discuss various aspects of colorectal cancer, including risk factors, symptoms, screening options, treatment modalities, and lifestyle modifications for prevention. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with healthcare professionals in an interactive setting.

Lunch will be provided. Due to space restrictions, registrations will be limited to the first 30 attendees that register.

For more information about the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Lunch and Learn Event, please visit www.MariaParham.com.

Mar. 7 Is Social Security Administration’s “Slam The Scam” Day

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Today is the fifth annual “Slam the Scam” observance to raise awareness about protecting sensitive Social Security information from fraudsters.

The Social Security Administration and its Office of the Inspector General (OIG) are partnering once again to raise public awareness about Social Security imposter scams.

“As public servants, we must use every tool at our disposal to raise awareness and protect the American people against Social Security imposter scams,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security. “Scammers use fear and deception to scare people out of their critical benefits. We urge everyone to protect their personal information, remain vigilant, do not give money, and report any scam attempts to oig.ssa.gov.”

Keep in mind that Social Security employees will never:

  • tell you that your Social Security number is suspended
  • contact you to demand an immediate payment
  • threaten you with arrest
  • ask for your credit or debit card numbers over the phone
  • request gift cards or cash
  • promise a Social Security benefit approval or increase in exchange for information or money

Social Security employees do contact the public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit, are already receiving payments and require an update to their record, or who have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem with a person’s Social Security number or record, Social Security will typically mail a letter.

Social Security scams–where fraudsters mislead victims into making cash, gift card, or wire transfer payments to fix alleged Social Security number problems or to avoid arrest–are an ongoing government imposter fraud scheme. Social Security impersonation scams have been one of the most common government imposter scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Social Security continues to make concerted efforts to address this issue, through extensive outreach and investigative initiatives.

Criminals use sophisticated tactics to trick potential victims into disclosing personal and financial information. Typically, they use these P’s – Pretend, Prize or Problem, Pressure, and Payment. For example, scammers pretend they are from Social Security in phone calls, texts, emails, and direct messages on social media, and claim there is a problem with the person’s Social Security number. The scammer’s caller ID may be spoofed to look like a legitimate government number. Scammers may also send fake documents to pressure people into complying with demands for information or money. Other common tactics include citing “badge numbers,” using fraudulent Social Security letterhead, and creating imposter social media pages to target individuals for payment or personal information.

To report a scam attempt, go to oig.ssa.gov.

“On our fifth National Slam the Scam Day, we are just as committed as we were in 2020. The scammers have not stopped, and we will not stop in our commitment to increase public awareness of these pervasive scams,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for SSA. “We are grateful for the many partnerships we have formed over the last five years in support of this initiative and the collaborative efforts that have come forth. We must continue to work together to slam the scam.”

For more information, please visit www.ssa.gov/scam and www.ssa.gov/fraud.

 

SportsTalk: Hammett Rebuilds JF Webb Softball

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It was only a couple of years ago that JF Webb had no softball team.  Covid and a lack players meant the program had become dormant.  That has all changed with Corey Hammett.  Last year she brought the program back and took the Warriors into the state playoffs.  Hammett sees more success this year for JF Webb.  “We should be a top three team in the conference,” she said on Thursday’s SportsTalk.  There are still challenges for Hammett.  “Our biggest challenges are getting girls interested and teaching the fundamentals,” Hammett explained.

She also had to overcome field problems since it had not been used in some time.  This year, the field is once again an issue.  Not because of non-use but rain.  The team has had several games rained out the wet field has meant they have only been able to get in two games, both losses, to Oxford Prep.  Hammett said she hopes to get the Warriors back on the field on the road against Riverside Monday night.

 

Granville Tourism Development Authority Grant Application Period Open Now Through May 1

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The Granville Tourism Development Authority mini-grant program is open and accepting applications for projects up to $5,000.

The mini-grant program helps county organizations and agencies promote and market events and activities that encourage tourism and create an economic impact. Funded projects should create visitor spending with a goal of helping stimulate events and/or activities that can grow  and eventually thrive on their own merit, without direct funding. As such, any approved funding should be considered as a supplemental resource only.

Eligible organizations include Granville County-based community groups, nonprofit organizations and municipalities – or recognized communities – located within Granville County.  A for-profit group may apply for grant funding IF the event’s revenue will benefit a community-supported organization.

Priority will be given to projects that encourage out-of-county visitors, with primary consideration given to those that promote the Granville TDA’s mission of marketing the area as a travel destination. The tourism industry’s definition of a “visitor” is an individual trekking outside of 50 miles to attend an event or activity. Events planned for off-peak times may receive higher priority.

Total funding of any event, project or program will not be greater than 25 percent of the total project budget and will not exceed $5,000. Included with the request can be a one-time artist/entertainment allowance of up to $1,000.

Grant applications will be accepted until May 1, 2024, for inclusion in the upcoming fiscal year budget (July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025). The Granville TDA board of directors will review applications and make recommendations for approval at the June board meeting and award recipients will be notified after July 1, 2024, when the new fiscal year begins.

Applications are available online at https://www.granvillecounty.org/visitors/tda-mini-grant-2024-2025/

or through the Granville County Tourism Development office located at 124 Hillsboro St., Oxford. For more information, contact Tourism Director Angela Allen at 919.693.6125 or angela.allen@granvillecounty.org.

 

NC Forest Service

N.C. Forest Service: Safety First To Prevent Wildfires

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The N.C. Forest Service reminds everyone to use extreme caution with all outdoor fires, especially yard debris burns, as thoughts turn to spring and tidying up landscapes. And don’t forget:  You need a valid burn permit before you start a fire.

In 2023, the Forest Service responded to more than 5,300 wildfires across the state. The main culprit: Escaped burn debris, according to information from fire service officials.

“Last year, 99 percent of wildfires in our state were directly related to human activity,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This means that most of our wildfires could have been prevented. Before choosing to burn yard debris, make sure you have a valid burn permit, check the weather and avoid burning on dry, windy days. You are the first line of defense when it comes to preventing wildfires.”

Spring weather tends to draw people outdoors to work in their yards and many choose burning as a method to dispose of leaves, limbs and other yard debris.

“During the spring season, fires can spread quickly,” said State Forester David Lane. “Your N.C. Forest Service county ranger is a resource and can provide guidance about when, where and how to burn safely outdoors. Contact your local NCFS county ranger’s office before starting an outdoor fire.”

Rob Montague is the ranger for Vance and Granville counties. His email is Vance.ncfs@ncagr.gov and his phone is 919.693.3154.

Brian Champion is the ranger for Franklin County. His email is Franklin.ncfs@ncagr.gov and his phone is 919.496.3665.

Jim Short serves Warren County; reach him via Franklin.ncfs@ncar.gov or 252.257.5960.

The N.C. Forest Service also offers the following tips:

  • Check local burning laws. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours. Others forbid it entirely.
  • Make sure you have a valid permit. You can obtain a burn permit at any Forest Service office or authorized permitting agent, or online at www.ncforestservice.gov/burnpermit.
  • Keep an eye on the weather. Don’t burn on dry, windy days.
  • Local fire officials can recommend a safe way to burn debris. Don’t pile vegetation on the ground. Instead, place it in a cleared area and contain it in a screened receptacle away from overhead branches and wires.
  • Be sure you are fully prepared before burning. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. Keep a phone nearby, too.
  • Never use kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to speed up debris burning.
  • Stay with your fire until it is completely out.

 

To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and loss of property, refer to Fire Safety Outdoors. For information about creating defensible space and a fire-resistant landscape around your home and property, visit www.resistwildfirenc.org.

TownTalk: Tax Prep Help Available

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The IRS is offering assistance to eligible tax filers during special Saturday hours at a couple of locations in Granville County beginning this Saturday, Feb. 24.

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs are available to offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify.

Representative of the two programs will be at Richard Thornton Public Library in Oxford from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.  on Feb. 24; if evening hours are better, make plans to go to the library’s South Branch Monday, Feb. 26 between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. to request help.

The next closest location for the free tax help offered by VITA and TCE is at the Taxpayer Assistance Center, 7751 Brier Creek Parkway, Suite 102, Raleigh. At this location, in-person help is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

No appointment is required for any of the sites offering the help.

The VITA program has operated for more than 50 years. VITA sites offer free tax help to people who need assistance in preparing their own tax returns, including:

  • People who generally make $64,000 or less
  • Persons with disabilities; and
  • Limited English-speaking taxpayers

Before going to a VITA or TCE site, see Publication 3676-B for services provided and check out What to Bring to ensure you have all the required documents and information the volunteers will need to help you.

Visit www.irs.gov to find out more, including what types of information you’ll need to bring, including a government-issued photo ID, Social Security numbers or ITIN for all household members and more.

Additional resources are found below:

 

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N.C. Rep. Sossamon Plans Forums In Vance, Granville To Raise Awareness About Human Trafficking

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Human trafficking continues to be a concern in North Carolina, with the state consistently ranking within the top 10 for the highest number of trafficking cases. To address this pressing concern, N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon is scheduling a couple of forums for his District 32 constituents to raise awareness and foster community engagement.

Sossamon said, “The more we know about human trafficking, the lower the number of trafficking cases.” With this in mind, he emphasizes the importance of community involvement in recognizing and reporting suspected instances of trafficking. “When it comes to human trafficking, vocalizing suspicions is essential to saving lives,” he said.

The forums will be held Tuesday, Mar. 12 at Perry Memorial Library and Thuersday, Mar. 14 at the Granville County Expo Center. Members of the North Carolina Human Trafficking Commission will facilitate the meeting, which will feature local highway patrol, victim advocates and community leaders, who will provide insights into the prevalence of human trafficking, its impact on communities and ways individuals can help prevent and address it. Both sessions will feature a 4 p.m. session tailored for law enforcement professionals and a 6 p.m. session open to the general public.

Upcoming Blood Drives

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Recent inclement weather across the country has hampered blood drive efforts, and demands for blood and plasma and blood donations continues to be greater than supply. There are several local opportunities to give blood in Vance and Granville counties through February.

The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets now to continue to strengthen the national blood supply.

Book a time to give by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. People of all blood types – especially type O blood donors, the most needed blood group by hospitals – and platelet donors are needed daily to ensure blood products are available for hospitals at a moment’s notice.

As February continues, so does the potential for additional weather systems to disrupt blood drives and the ability to provide critical blood products to hospitals. While thousands of donors have answered the call to donate in recent weeks to combat a significant drop in the blood supply, more donors are needed now to ensure the blood supply remains ready for those in need of lifesaving medical procedures.

 

As a way to say thanks for helping, all who come to give in February will get a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Heart.

Upcoming blood drives:

Vance

Henderson

2/20/2024: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Vance Granville Community College, 200 Community College Road

2/20/2024: 1:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., Kerr Lake Country Club, 600 Hedrick Road

 

Granville

 

Butner

2/29/2024: 12 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Butner Town Hall, 415 Central Avenue

 

Creedmoor

2/16/2024: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Creedmoor Community Center, 116 Douglas Drive

 

Oxford

2/23/2024: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Oxford United Methodist Church, 105 W McClanahan St

2/28/2024: 12:30 p.m. – 5 p.m., Thornton Branch, 210 Main Street

Oxford Prep School

SportsTalk: Oxford Prep Softball Looking For Back To Back Championships

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It’s never easy to repeat as a champion, but Oxford Prep Softball Coach Tommy Anstead feels as though his team has a pretty good chance to win a conference championship in 2024.  “We have 12 or 13 girls returning including all of our starters except one,” Anstead said on Thursday’s SportsTalk.

The team is counting on another strong performance from pitcher Addison Faucette.  Last season, as a freshman, Faucette was 16-3 on the year with an earned run average of 1.79.   Oxford Prep can hit the ball too.  “We had seven players with a batting average of over .300 and of the seven, four were over .400,” Anstead said.

Anstead expects tough competition this season citing Roxboro and Vance Charter as teams that could cause problems for Oxford Prep this season. Anstead also says the team has a tougher schedule this season.  Oxford Prep opens the season on March 1st against county rival J.F. Webb.

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