Tag Archive for: #granvillecountynews

NC Forest Service

NC Celebrates Arbor Day Friday, Mar. 21

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— courtesy of N.C. Department of Agriculture & Consumer Sciences

North Carolina will observe Arbor Day Friday, March 21, to commemorate the annual tree-planting holiday.

“Planting trees is important because they clean the air we breathe and the water we drink. Trees increase our property values, lower our energy consumption and costs, help control stormwater, and substantially benefit wildlife and human health,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Trees are a good investment of public dollars, and planting trees is a simple, responsible and natural solution to many challenges that we face each day in North Carolina. Communities across the state are holding Arbor Day celebrations, and I encourage everyone to contact your local municipality to be part of their event.”

Once deemed “the treeless plain,” Nebraska was home to the inaugural Arbor Day celebration in 1872 with the planting of more than a million trees. North Carolina observes Arbor Day the first Friday following March 15, while National Arbor Day is held the last Friday in April each year.

The N.C. Forest Service offers a variety of state forestry programs that grow and strengthen our forest resources by supporting landowners and communities with tree planting, site preparation and forest improvement practices. Planting trees and responsible urban forest management at the local level such as community involvement and participation in urban forestry recognition programs are critical to sustaining healthy forest resources throughout North Carolina.

N.C. Forest Service staff are available to help landowners manage their woods and communities manage their urban forest. NCFS staff are also available to assist with developing Arbor Day celebrations and presenting Tree City USA, Tree Campus Higher Education and Tree Line USA awards during community celebrations.

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.

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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The Local Skinny! Granville’s Creative Lifelong Learning Presents “The Regulators: Right Or Wrong” Debate

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Before the American Revolution, North Carolina and the other 12 Colonies pretty much operated independently – the idea of a unifying federal system wouldn’t be a “thing” until the Constitution was ratified in 1789, replacing the Articles of Confederation, which largely preserved the sovereignty and independence of the 13 Colonies.

A fellow named George Sims didn’t like the way he and fellow Colonists were being treated by the government – excessive taxes, unfair payments, the average guy not getting a fair shake were just a few of the complaints lodged by a group of colonists known as The Regulators.

“George Sims was just an average guy,” said local historian Mark Pace. He was a farmer and schoolteacher from the Nutbush area, in what is now the Drewry area. But in a compelling speech delivered in 1765, Sims shared his views in a politically correct way – never criticizing existing laws or inciting violence while demanding reforms to the law of the land.

Pace has been researching Sims to prepare for an upcoming program of Granville County’s Creative Lifelong Learning program. Pace will portray Sims in a debate with one of Sims’s counterparts, Margaret Wake Tryon, the wife of Gov. William Tryon.

The program “The Regulators: Right or Wrong” is scheduled for Wednesday, Mar. 19 at 10 a.m. at the Granville County Convention & Expo Center on Hwy 15 outside Oxford. CLL members get in free; non-members may pay $12 to become members at the door.

Courtney Smith of Orange County will portray Tryon, who no doubt backed her husband’s views of government.

The debate will take place as if it were taking place in 1771, before the Colonists rose up against British rule to gain independence.

Sims will have the floor for 20 minutes and Tryon will have the floor for 20 minutes, Pace explained during Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny!

“This is not the Revolution, but it’s planting the seed of revolution,” Pace said. People were becoming increasingly discontented with what they considered poor governance.

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Granville Chamber Names Charles Currin John Penn Citizen Of The Year

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— information courtesy of Granville County Chamber of Commerce

The Granville County Chamber of Commerce named Charles Currin as John Penn Citizen of the Year, capping an evening of celebration during its 83rd annual membership meeting and banquet Monday, Mar. 10.

Currin was recognized for his servant leadership and for giving selfless service to his community. In remarks leading up to the announcement, Rev. Joe Don Cooper said Currin, a lifelong Granville County resident, has dedicated himself to helping others throughout his life. From solving electrical issues, lending his craftsmanship, or simply by being the first  to show up when someone is in need, Currin exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader. His volunteer efforts stretch far beyond the county—he played a key role in disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Matthew, spending nearly a year helping rebuild communities in hard-hit Tarboro. Locally, he is an integral part of the Oxford Lions Club, where his contributions have kept fundraising efforts thriving for more than a decade. His work at Oxford Baptist Church, where he has served in multiple leadership roles, further demonstrates his unwavering commitment to service.

Described by friends and colleagues as “a man of action,” Currin never seeks recognition but always  answers the call to serve. Whether constructing wheelchair ramps for those in need, organizing community fundraisers, or even sharing produce from his garden with neighbors, his generosity knows no bounds. His impact is felt not only in the projects he leads but in the countless lives he has touched with his kindness, humor and willingness to give.

In addition to honoring Currin, the Chamber also recognized George’s Oxford Village Family Restaurant as the Small Business of the Year. A cornerstone of the community, George’s has built a reputation for excellence in customer service and hospitality, serving Granville County for years with dedication and heart.

The evening also showcased the Chamber’s commitment to education. Serenity Cameron, one of the Chamber’s four 2024-2025 Student Spotlight winners, was awarded a scholarship from the Chamber’s Education Committee in recognition of her academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to her community. The Granville County Chamber of Commerce extends its deepest gratitude to its sponsors, attendees and all those who continue to support its mission of fostering economic growth, leadership and  community engagement.

For more information about the Chamber and its programs and services, visit https://granville-chamber.com/ or contact Chamber Director Cynthia Ratliff at cynthia@granville-chamber.com

 

Maria Parham Health Emergency Department Renovation Update

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Maria Parham Health is kicking off the first phase of a major renovation to its Emergency Department, with a focus on enhancing care for individuals facing behavioral health challenges.

“We are excited to begin this important renovation, which will allow us to provide even better care to those who need it most,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “This is a huge step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve care for vulnerable populations in our  community, and we are grateful for the support of our partners and the local community.”

The renovation will take place in two phases, with the initial preparation already completed by the hospital’s Facilities team, according to information from MPH Public Information Officer Donna Young. Temporary modifications to the main lobby area have been made,  including the installation of new flooring and the construction of temporary walls. These changes  will create dedicated space for waiting areas, triage zones, registration desks and other essential  facilities to ensure the continued smooth flow of patient care during construction.

Because the front portion of the current Emergency Department will be closed for the duration of the renovation, the hospital’s main lobby will be used as a temporary intake, registration and emergency care  area for patients coming to Maria Parham’s Henderson campus in personal vehicles.  Ambulances will continue to arrive through the current ambulance intake bay. There are directional signs in place to help direct people to their destinations.

Phase One of the project is expected to take approximately 16 weeks, with actual construction beginning Monday, Mar. 17.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

  • During the renovation, emergency patients who arrive at the hospital by their own means  will be directed to the main entrance for registration, triage, and care.
  • Emergency Medical Services entry will remain unaffected.
  • Radiology patients will also be guided to the main entrance for registration and sent to a separate waiting area for their services.
  • For other services such as Lab, Outpatient Surgery, Inpatient Rehab, and General Visitation, patients will be asked to use the Heart & Vascular Center entrance, located to the right of the hospital’s main entrance.
  • Please look for signage posted in front of the hospital for additional guidance.

This vital renovation is made possible through funding allocated to Maria Parham Health in October 2023 as part of a joint initiative led by the Vance County District Attorney’s Office, Granville Vance Public Health, the Vance County Board of Commissioners and the North Carolina General Assembly.

The project will specifically focus on creating designated areas within the Emergency Department tailored to meet the unique needs of behavioral health and mental health patients.  These spaces will provide a safer, more supportive environment for patients and care team members, while improving overall hospital efficiency. Furthermore, the changes are designed to foster a healthier and more secure hospital environment for patients and visitors alike.

Maria Parham Health encourages the public to stay informed about the renovation’s progress.  Updates will be available on the hospital’s official Facebook page and through local news outlets.

Social Media And Its Effect On Youth Topic Of Upcoming Vaya Health Program At Boys & Girls Club In Oxford

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The public is invited to come learn more the role of social media in young people’s lives on Saturday, Mar. 22 at the Granville Unit of the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central North Carolina  in Oxford.

The program, “Unfiltered, The Effects of Social Media” is presented by Vaya Health
Tri-County System of Care Community Collaborative. It’s free and open to the community. There will be a youth panel discussion, as well as resources, games, food and more.

The Boys & Girls Club is located at 105 West St., Oxford.

The Local Skinny! VGCC Foundation Fundraiser Saturday, April 5 At HighRock Farms

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Join The VGCC Foundation at the second annual wine tasting gala and silent auction fundraiser on Saturday, April 5, from 6 – 9 p.m. to help support students facing unforeseen financial crises.

The event’s theme is  “Unlocking Possibilities: You Are Key,” and will take place at HighRock Farms in Granville County.

Unexpected burdens can easily derail some students. Through initiatives like a food pantry, emergency assistance, transportation vouchers and career closet, The VGCC Foundation steps in to meet students’ basic needs when the unexpected gets in the way of their academic progress, according to information from VGCC Public Information Officer Courtney Cissel.

Now in its second year, the wine tasting gala and silent auction features an array of wineries showcasing their signature wines including reds, whites, bubbly and more. Guests will enjoy a buffet of foods including chicken, beef, and more (as well as tea and water), while The Hub will offer a variety of beer and wine for purchase by the glass.

Attendees will receive a souvenir wine glass and have the option to purchase their favorite finds. In addition, a variety of silent auction items will be on display for bidding throughout the evening. Also added this year is a Wine Pull and various raffle opportunities. A short program showcasing students who have benefited from donor contributions will open the evening, and local students will provide the event’s entertainment.

HighRock Farms, located at 2317 Enon Road outside Oxford, is owned by Beth and Dave Hollister.

Dress for the evening is business attire.

Tickets are $75 each and may be purchased through The Vance-Granville Community College Foundation office. Only 150 tickets will be sold, so be sure to get yours early! To purchase tickets online, visit www.vgcc.edu/the-vgcc-foundation-online-gifts and enter “Gala” in the Designation box. To purchase tickets using any other method, please email foundation@vgcc.edu or call 252.738.3264.

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The Local Skinny! Paws for Granville

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The Humane Society of Granville County is hosting its annual Paws for Granville fundraiser on Saturday, Mar. 29 at the Barn at Vino in Stem.

Anne Crews, a member of the local humane society and one of the event organizers, said this year’s goal is $20,000. “It’s our major fundraiser for the year,” Crews said on Thursday’s segment of The Local Skinny!

The event begins at 5 p.m. and dinner, catered by George’s of Oxford, will begin at 6 p.m. There will be a live auction, too, she said.

The Humane Society splits the proceeds with the local animal shelter, and Crews said the funds are used to pay for vet bills, spay/neuter programs, vaccinations and more for animals that come to the shelter and hopefully adopted out to good homes.

In 2023, 2,034 animals were taken in at the animal shelter. “That’s an awful lot of animals,” Crews said.

For every dog or cat that is spayed or neutered, she said, it reduces the number of unwanted animals that often end up at the shelter looking for new homes.

In addition to the adoption program that the humane society and the spay and neuter program that operate at the shelter, volunteers also run a pet food pantry and have cat adoption events at Petsmart in Durham’s Patterson Place.

Crews said there’s always a need for additional volunteers. Visit the website or call 919.691.9114 to learn more.

Paws for Granville tickets are $40. Purchase them on Eventbrite, or visit https://www.hsgcnc.org/paws-for-granville.

 

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Granville School Board Announces Leadership Changes For 2025-26 School Year

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— Information courtesy of Granville County Public School Public Information Officer Dr. Courtney Currin

The Granville County Board of Education announced a number of leadership changes that will take effect in the 2025-26 school year. The changes come as a result of school closings and consolidations.

Kevin Ferrell was named director of Transportation, succeeding Dr. Chris Ham, who will retire at the end of the calendar year. Ferrell has served as the principal of South Granville High School since July of 2021. He has an undergraduate degree from Duke University and a graduate degree from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Janita Allen has been named the High School Success and Math Coach in an interim role. Allen has been with Granville County Public Schools for her entire career, which spans almost 29 years. She currently is principal of Granville Central High School, which will close at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Allen holds a bachelor’s degree from N.C. Central University, a master’s degree from N.C.  State University and a doctorate from East Carolina University.

Ashley Clark will replace Ferrell as principal of South Granville High School. Clark was the 2022-2023 GCPS Principal of the Year and currently is principal at Butner-Stem Middle School. She has undergraduate and graduate degrees from East Carolina University.

Jessie Shore will be the first principal of the new Granville Central Middle School. Shore currently serves as the principal of G.C. Hawley Middle School, which will close at the end of the school year.

Shore was born and raised in Winston-Salem, and attended Western Carolina University for her undergraduate degree and, later, administration licensure. She also holds a master’s degree from Salem College.

Superintendent Dr. Stan Winborne commended school administrators from across the district for their dedication to students and to education. “I want to publicly thank our amazing school administrators who dedicate countless hours to ensuring the best education possible for the students of Granville County Public Schools. I am confident that the administrators who have new positions will help our schools and district thrive.”

The board also named the following administrators to new roles as assistant principals:

  • Shaun Daniel, Granville Central Middle;
  • Dane Fields, Wilton Elementary;
  • Cierra Harris, C.G. Credle Elementary;
  • Regina Harris, J.F. Webb High School;
  • Ruby Mondell-Long, South Granville High School;
  • Chastity Rivera, South Granville High School;
  • Kendalyn Smith, Granville Central Middle;
  • Michael Spradlin, J.F. Webb High School.