Tag Archive for: #granvillecountynews

Upcoming Blood Drives

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Kick June off right by donating blood or plasma at several upcoming blood drives.

The American Red Cross has a special incentive to donors who register to help build the blood supply for patients in need. Everyone who comes to a blood drive site between now and June 9 will get a t-shirt featuring the iconic video game Tetris, which is commemorating its 40th anniversary.

Plus, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to New York to meet Tetris creator Alexey Pajitnov. See RedCrossBlood.org/Tetris for details.

Donors of all blood types – especially those giving type O blood and donors giving platelets – are vital to people counting on blood products for critical medical procedures, according to Red Cross representatives.

Every single donation can help keep the blood supply as stable as possible during a busy time of year when many regular donors may be unable to give. Find a time before your calendar fills up. Visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App to register at a convenient location.

Available June blood drives:

  • Thursday, June 6: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Raleigh Road Baptist Church, 3892 Raleigh Rd., Henderson
  • Friday, June 7: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Creedmoor Community Center, 116 Douglas Dr., Creedmoor

Granville County Public Schools

2 J.F. Webb Seniors Awarded More Than $2 Million In Scholarships

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Information courtesy of GCPS Public Information Officer Courtney Currin

Two J.F. Webb High School seniors have been recognized for each receiving scholarships totaling more than $1 million.

Kailie Galdamez, headed off to UNC-Chapel Hill, was awarded 13 scholarships. Fellow senior Bryson Gresham, headed to East Carolina University Honors College, received 21 scholarships.

Galdamez and Gresham join classmates for graduation on Saturday, June 8 at 9 a.m.

GCPS graduation ceremonies for the class of 2024 will be livestreamed. Visit https://www.gcs.k12.nc.us/ and click on the graduation link.

The students expressed their gratitude and acknowledged the support they received during their time at J.F. Webb. “Having counselors to help me through my new experience of college applications was really helpful,” Galdamez said. Gresham stated, “I am grateful for all my administration and teachers who helped me along my journey at J.F. Webb.”

Galdamez received the following scholarships: Wingate Merit Scholarship, FBCA Impact Scholarship, UNC Chapel Hill Merit Award, UNC-Chapel Hill Carolina Covenant, Meredith Merit Scholarship, Hofstra Presidential Scholarship, Appalachian State Merit Scholarship, UNC Pembroke Merit Awards, Johnson & Wales Presidential Scholarship, Johnson & Wales Merit Scholarship, Hollins University Presidential Scholarship, High Point University Merit Scholarship and the J.F. Webb Alumni Scholarship.

Gresham received the following scholarships: Lenoir-Rhyne University Promise Scholarship, Barton College Trustee Scholarship, Wingate University Presidential, Campbell University Scott Ellis Scholarship, Campbell University Housing Award, Western Carolina Merit, Belmont Abbey Trustees Merit Scholarship, Catawba College Presidential Scholarship, Queens University of Charlotte Presidential, High Point University Presidential Fellowship, High Point University Centennial Award, High Point Merit Award, East Carolina Honors College Merit Scholarship, East Carolina Mathematics Scholarship, Furman University Bell Tower Scholarship, Appalachian State Excellence Scholarship, Sewanee Ecee Quam Bonum Award, Wofford College Merit Scholarship, UNC Wilmington Merit Scholarship, John Little Memorial Scholarship and the J.F. Webb Alumni Scholarship.

 

VGCC Logo

VGCC Hosting FAFSA Nights To Help Parents, Students Navigate Federal Aid Application

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Vance-Granville Community College’s Financial Aid Office is hosting a series of FAFSA Night meetings to help families with students in college or headed to college – as well as adult learners – understand the federal financial aid application.

The first FAFSA Night was scheduled for Tuesday, May 21 at VGCC’s Main Campus in Henderson. The next event is set for Thursday, May 23 at the Warren Campus, followed by Tuesday, May 28 at the Franklin Campus and Thursday, May 30 at South Campus in Creedmoor.

If you plan to use financial aid for Fall 2024–Summer 2025, you will need to complete the 2024–2025 FAFSA application to determine your eligibility for Title IV Aid.

VGCC’s Financial Aid team will be available to provide assistance with the FAFSA application on the dates and times below:

VGCC Warren County Campus

May 23, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Building 1, Room W1107
210 West Ridgeway St.
Warrenton, NC 27589

VGCC Franklin County Campus

May 28, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Building 1, Room F1124
8100 NC 56 Highway
Louisburg, NC 27549

VGCC South Campus

May 30, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Room G1103
1547 South Campus Dr.
Creedmoor, NC 27522

Young Farmers & Ranchers Group Gathers Next Generation In Agriculture

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The Tri-County Young Farmers & Ranchers group will convene later this week at a local farm that produces organic, environmentally sustainable pork, beef and milk and will learn straight from its owners how MY Meat Farm was created.

If you’re a farmer or rancher between 18 and 35, you’re invited to join this group, which is sponsored by Farm Bureau and brings together young farmers and others in agriculture together from Vance, Granville and Warren counties.

The Tri-County YF&R meeting will be held Thursday, May 23 at 6:30 p.m. at MY Meat Farm, located at 3182 Sims Bridge Rd., Kittrell. Although it is a Kitrell address, the farm is located in Franklin County.

The YF&R program is a new endeavor in the county, said Dr. Wykia Macon, Vance County extension director. “It is a tri-county group of people 18-35 who are farmers and ranchers. Our local Farm Bureau Board and Catherine Watts, who works with Labor Service International, is working to create a community of local young ranchers and farmers who will lead the next generation,” Macon told WIZS News.

MY Meat Farm will provide the backdrop for the final meeting of the season, but the group will pick back up in September.

The farm produces woodland raised pork, pastured beef and raw milk that is “beyond organic.” The owners use methods that are environmentally sustainable, truly humane, and naturally healthy, according to information from Catherine Watts, one of the organizers of the group.

All participants are reminded to wear comfortable shoes – there will be some walking involved at the meeting! As a biosecurity measure, there will be a footbath for everyone’s shoes before the tour begins.

RSVP to Farm Bureau’s Catherine Watts.

To learn more about the YF&R program, visit https://www.fb.org/program/young-farmers-ranchers.

Oxford Plans Memorial Day Service Monday May 27 At 11 AM

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The City of Oxford invites the community to a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony Monday, May 27, at the Granville Veterans Memorial Wall, located in front of City Hall.

The ceremony begins at 11 a.m., according to information from Oxford Communications Specialist Sabrina Richards. Rene Adams, representing the group Gold Star Mothers is, the featured speaker. The event serves to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend. City Hall is located at 300 Williamsboro St. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors.

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Oxford Names Downtown Economic Director

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Oxford City Manager Brent Taylor has announced the hiring of Kenia Gomez-Jimenez as the city’s new Downtown Economic Director.

In her new role, Gomez-Jimenez will help develop the downtown economically and culturally and build relationships with stakeholders, Taylor said, and she will be active in implementing the city’s Main Street program, which provides downtown strategic economic development planning, revitalization, small business development, and the rehabilitation of historic properties.

Pierre Gingue, the president of the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corp., welcomed  Gomez-Jimenez.  We are excited to see the enthusiasm, energy, and community-centered approach she will bring. We anticipate transformative growth and prosperity for our city’s core,” Gingue stated.

As a native of Vance County and a graduate of UNC – Chapel Hill, Gomez-Jimenez’s academic journey in Political Science and Philosophy ignited a deep-seated commitment to public service and community empowerment.

“I look forward to collaborating with the Downtown Oxford Economic Development Corporation existing downtown businesses, and community leaders to forge lasting positive impacts and cultivate a dynamic downtown community in Oxford,” said Gomez-Jimenez. “Most importantly, I’m excited to engage with the citizens of Oxford to enrich our downtown’s livability and elevate it as a pivotal destination for new businesses and visitors alike.”

During her time as Regional Program Coordinator at the Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments Gomez-Jimenez showcased her exceptional project management skills. She spearheaded the branding communications strategy for the Council, fostering robust relationships with regional stakeholders, citizens and local governments. Her most notable achievement was successfully administering federal and state grant programs, securing a substantial $200,000 in funding for active transportation projects across the five-county region. This feat, accomplished in less than a year, significantly enhanced the region’s infrastructure and promoted sustainable development.

Gomez-Jimenez is active in the community by serving on various boards and councils. Notable among these are her roles on the Henderson Optimist Club Board of Directors, Salvation Army of Henderson Board of Directors, and the Vance County Cooperative Extension Advisory Leadership Council. She was recognized as the 2023 Henderson Optimist of the Year and a graduate of the Leadership Vance 2023 program, and she has earned accolades for her outstanding contributions to community development and leadership. Gomez-Jimenez is fluent in both English and Spanish and believes diversity is a cornerstone of vibrant, thriving communities.

Granville Commissioners To Hold Public Hearing On Budget May 20

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The Granville County Board of Commissioners received a budget proposal – more than $87.2 million – from County Manager Drew Cummings earlier this month.

The new property tax rate is 63 cents per $100 property value, which is 10 cents over the revenue-neutral rate, but 20 cents lower than the previous tax rate.

Commissioners will have a public hearing before its meeting on Monday, May 20 to hear from residents about the contents and particular line items contained in the 338-page budget document.

The full budget document is available on the Granville County website at: https://www.granvillecounty.org/government/finance-department/comprehensive-annual-financial-reports-budget-documents/

A copy of the proposed budget also is available for public inspection in the Office of the Clerk to the Board and at the Richard H. Thornton Library and other library branches.

A few highlights included in the county manager’s summary:

  • Proposed budget doesn’t take any funds from fund balance
  • Includes a third year of funding from the newly formed Fire Protection & Rescue Service Tax District and maintains a tax rate of .06 per $100
  • The $8,689,224,747 tax base is projected to generate $54,309,641, assuming a 98.99 percent collection rate.

The commissioners’ meeting and the public hearing will take place in the auditorium of the Granville Convention and Expo Center, 4185 US Highway 15 South in Oxford.

Granville County Hazardous Household Material Collection Event Saturday, May 18

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Granville County residents can start collecting all those half-used jugs of household chemicals, paint and other materials that may be stored on garage shelves and storage sheds in preparation for the Saturday, May 18 household hazardous waste collection event.

Load up all those unwanted items and come out to the Granville County Convention and Expo Center, 4185 US Hwy. 15 in Oxford between 8 a.m. and 12 noon.

The event is open to Granville County residents only – no business or commercial waste will be accepted.

For more information and a list of accepted items and prohibited items visit granvillecounty.org or call 919.691.0928 or email jason.falls@granvillecounty.org.

Following is a list of acceptable items to drop off at the collection event:

  • mercury
  • adhesives
  • lawn care products
  • paint product (10 gal limit/vehicle)
  • aerosols
  • flammable substances
  • fluorescent light bulbs
  • household cleaning supplies
  • batteries
  • photo chemicals
  • swimming pool chemicals
  • confidential documents (3 bag maximum)
  • pesticides/herbicides
  • prescription drugs
  • ammunition
Oxford Prep School

SportsTalk: Oxford Prep Looking For Playoff Success

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High school teams from all across our area are now in the state playoffs, and Oxford Prep is no exception.  The school’s athletic director, John Hammett, was on SportsTalk Thursday to discuss how his school is doing.  “Our baseball team is young,” he said.  Despite the youthfulness of the squad, Oxford Prep came from behind in the seventh inning to secure an 8-7 win over Clover Garden earlier this week to afford them the opportunity to go on the road to take on Pinetops. “Pinetops is an athletic school that does well in all sports,” Hammett said.

Meanwhile, the softball team is also on the road but with a much shorter trip as they will play Vance Charter at Oxford Park Friday afternoon at 5 p.m.  Oxford Prep is coming off a convincing 16-0 win in three innings this week at Northwest Halifax.  The Vance Charter game is a huge rivalry.  “Everybody knows everybody.  Vance Charter plays hard and hits the ball well,” Hammett said.  Expect a huge turnout in Oxford for that game Friday afternoon.

 

TownTalk: CultureFest Coming To Oxford

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CultureFest is coming to downtown Oxford this Saturday, and organizers say the day’s activities will be a treat for all the senses – there will different types of food, musical performances and plenty of demonstrations for the entire family to enjoy.

“We are literally shutting down the center of town, “exclaimed Cathy Anna, who is the event producer for the sponsoring John Chavis Society. Main Street – between the Courthouse and the roundabout between the post office and Oxford Baptist Church, will be packed with artisan vendors, food trucks and performance stages for the event, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Performances will take place every half hour and will include all types of traditional dance groups representing Polynesian, Latin, Mexican, West African cultures, Anna said. And don’t forget the Cane Creek Cloggers, who will perform with a full bluegrass band providing a musical backdrop.

A Durham-based group will bring traditional dance and drumming of West Africa to Oxford, said Ajulo Othow, treasurer of the John Chavis Society and a direct descendant of the man for whom the society is named.

Part of what makes CultureFest special, Othow said, is that people from diverse backgrounds can make connections through “love, joy, dance, music…arts in general.” The idea is to leave, “feeling more connected to one another.”

Anna said 66 vendor booths will be lining Main Street to offer a unique shopping experience. All the vendors are also the artisans who will have for sale their custom crafted, handmade items – “items you’re not going to find anywhere else,” she said.

There will be “food trucks galore,” Anna said, offering a global culinary smorgasbord – everything from Asian Fusion, Italian, Greek, Soul Food and even “Fair Food.” And there will be plenty of sweet stuff, too – cakes, pies, snow cones and ice cream. These are conveniently located by the children’s craft area that will provide lots of hands-on creative activities for the younger generation.

So whether you head downtown for the Chinese Dragon Dance, Ballet Folklórico or Indian dancers in their colorful garb, or you just want to let your kids to enjoy creating a mandala or a beadwork activity, just know that CultureFest is a fun way to learn more about traditions we may not be familiar with. It’s a way to bring people together and break down stereotypes.

“Couldn’t we use a little bit more of that,” Othow said. “Just a little bit.”

It was Othow’s mother, the late Helen Chavis Othow, who was a driving force in the creation of CultureFest. Othow died in 2022, and CultureFest has continued to gather momentum.

“I like to think of it as a love offering from my mom to the community,” Othow said of the festival. Her family’s roots in Granville County go back to the 1700’s, and Othow said her mother devoted her life to research the many contributions the family made to its community.

Anna and Othow invite the community to come and stay all day – it may just take that long to experience all the sights, sounds, tastes, aromas and touches that CultureFest will provide.

Visit https://culturefest24.planningpod.com/ for a list of performances and times.

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