Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

Update On Banner Project To Honor Vance County Military Veterans Killed In Service

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So far, a search for photos of Vance County veterans killed in action has produced about 10 photos. The photos are going to be printed on banners that will be displayed on several downtown streets in conjunction with plans to observe the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Local attorney and history Tem Blackburn said some of the new photos they’ve located are of veterans for whom photos hadn’t been available; others are simply better photos of veterans they did have images for.

Each banner will feature the name and photo of a Vance County individual who died in wars, from World War I through the Iraq War.

The plan, Blackburn said, is to have the banners installed by Memorial Day. It will take several weeks to have the banners printed, he said.

“I expect that photos will continue to filter in even after we deploy the banners.  Those that do will go on replacement banners that will be worked in for Memorial Day 2027,” he said.

Visit https://www.perrylibrary.org/home and click on the tab ‘America’s 250’ to see the full list of Vance County veterans who were killed in service.

HUBZone Kicks Off ‘Digital Bridge Run’ Virtual Fundraiser

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The HUBZone Technology Initiative is launching a virtual race to raise money to further its mission of empowering communities through technology access.

The Digital Bridge Run begins March 1 and goes through May 31, according to HTI Marketing Director Rachel Taylor.

Participants can run, walk, bike or race their own way at any time during the period.

For an entry fee of $37, participants can complete their race at their own pace and location, making the event accessible to individuals of all fitness levels. After registering, participants are encouraged to share their time and a photo with HTI to celebrate their achievement. All registered participants will receive an official limited-edition 2026 Digital Bridge Run medal, shipped directly to them.

Proceeds from the Digital Bridge Run support HTI’s mission to transform donated technology into new opportunities for individuals and families in need. By providing laptops and digital resources, HTI works to expand access to education, workforce development, and essential online services in underserved communities.

“Community members, families, businesses, and teams are encouraged to participate and help power positive change!” Taylor said. “Every mile helps connect someone in our community to a better future.”

Registration is now open. Community members, families, businesses, and teams are encouraged to participate and help power positive change!

For more information or to register, visit https://givebutter.com/DBR26.

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Community Partners Of Hope Seeks To Fill Executive Director Role

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Community Partners of Hope is seeking an Executive Director to provide strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the success of shelter and program operations, fiscal health, and community outreach. This influential, part-time role reports to the Board of Directors and directly supervises the Manager of the Shelter and Hope House and the Freedom Bridge Program Director.

Community Partners of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2011 to operate the Henderson Men’s Shelter. In 2015, Hope House began as the next step towards independent housing. In 2024, the shelter moved to a larger and better equipped location in the former City Road United Methodist Church fellowship hall at 903 N. Garnett Street. Shelter Program Manager Darryl Jones manages both the men’s shelter and Hope House.

In November of 2025, Freedom Bridge Resource Center opened with funds from the opioid settlement administered by the City of Henderson. Danetta McKnight is the program director and is working with other providers to create a central hub for services.

Learn more about Community Partners of Hope at www.cp-hope.org.

NC Forest Service

N.C. Forest Service Offers Advice To Cut Chance Of Springtime Wildfires

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– Information courtesy of the N.C. Department of Agriculture

Yes, it’s been rainy and wet lately, but the spring wildfire season is arriving at a time when much of the state is still in a moderate to severe drought, and the N.C. Forest Service is reminding the public to be careful and use common sense – especially when it comes to burning yard debris.

Escaped yard debris burns, largely due to carelessness, continue to be the leading cause of wildfires across the state, accounting for nearly half of all wildfires in North Carolina. In general, human activity is responsible for 99 percent of wildfires, and spring weather tends to draw people outdoors to work in their yards with many choosing to burn as a method to dispose of leaves, limbs and other yard debris.

“A fire can escape in a matter of seconds, especially on warm days when winds are gusty,” said N.C. Dept. of Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “This means you never leave a fire unattended until it is completely out and cold.”

Other forms of human-caused wildfires stem from machine and vehicle use, dragging tow chains, arson and escaped campfires.

Before starting an outdoor fire, contact your local NCFS county ranger’s office. For safe burning practices to help prevent wildfire, the NCFS offers the following guidance:

  • 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 N.C. 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. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
  • These same tips apply to campfires and grills as well. Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfires thoroughly with water. Drown all embers, not just the red ones. When soaked, stir the coals and soak them again. Make sure everything is wet and that embers are cold to the touch. If you do not have water, mix enough dirt or sand with the embers to extinguish the fire, being careful not to bury the fire. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area.

The public is reminded to never fly a drone near, around or over a wildfire. Firefighting aircraft that respond to wildfires fly low in support of ground personnel. Drones can pose a serious threat to pilots and public safety. A drone that disrupts air operations also puts firefighters, residents and property at risk of loss to wildfire.

Where there’s fire, there’s smoke, and if you live in an area where wildfire risk is high, staying smoke-ready can be critical to personal health and well-being. Take steps now to prepare for wildfire smoke. This is especially important for smoke sensitive individuals including children, active people, older adults and people with heart or lung disease such as asthma. Being prepared means knowing where to find information about air quality and utilizing the air quality index. Use resources like www.ncair.org, https://airquality.climate.ncsu.edu/ and www.airnow.gov.

To learn more about preparing for and preventing wildfires, visit www.preventwildfirenc.org.

TownTalk: Faith in Mental Health Forum Coming to MHCO in March

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The program called Faith in Mental Health is hosting an event on Monday, Mar. 16 and invites churches to become community partners to address mental health and substance use disorders.

Karl Johnson, PhD, is a team member of the Rural Academic Health Dept at Granville Vance Public Health.

The upcoming event is a continuation of a program that, so far, has had participation from roughly 100 people from about 40 churches in the area. The March 16 event will be held at The Masonic Home for Children in Oxford from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

There are several different levels of certification, Johnson told WIZS’s Scout Hughes on Monday’s TownTalk.

The first level is more like an orientation to let participants know what types of services are available in the area for people who struggle with mental health issues or substance use disorder.

“The goal is to better equip and empower churches to address the mental health and substance use,” he said, whether within their own congregation or in the broader community.

Help needs to go beyond the biomedical aspects of clients’ issues, he said.

There simply aren’t enough medical providers to tend to everyone’s needs, so reaching out to churches seemed to be a natural next step.

The church is “one of those communities that people go to for a sense of hope, belonging, for a sense of camaraderie and support,” Johnson said. It makes sense, he added, to partner with churches to give them tools to help.

“It’s a way for others to care for and tend to their loved ones (or) neighbors who struggle with these kinds of challenges,” he said.

There’s been a tremendous response in the area so far, Johnson said. “Churches really are eager and willing to step up” with participation by pastors and lay leaders alike.

After completing that level 1 certification, Johnson said some churches have gone on to host forums, provide additional trainings and establish support groups.

Some pastors periodically devote sermons to the topic and even create ministries devoted to the work.

Different churches take different approaches to trying to help, and that’s just fine, Johnson said.

“The deeper goal is for them to become better equipped to address this need in their community,” he said.

If you’d like to learn more, contact Johnson at 616.298.5626 or email him at kjohnson@gvph.org.

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Vance County Schools February Student Spotlight Selections

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— Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools has selected two elementary students to share Student Spotlight in February. Mia Watkins is a 1st grader at New Hope Elementary and Paisley David is a 4th grader at Dabney Elementary.

They were selected for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.

Mia Watkins – New Hope Elementary

At New Hope Elementary School, kindness, pride, and positivity shine brightly through first grader Mia Watkins. Nominated by her teacher, Tina Terry, Mia is known for her warm heart and joyful spirit. She walks into school each day with a big smile, a cheerful hello, and often a hug for everyone she meets. Her love for school is written all over her face from the moment she enters the building, and her New Hope Wildcat pride runs deep.

Mia is the kind of student every classroom celebrates. She shares her materials with classmates, helps friends during centers, and assists her teachers throughout the day. Whether working in whole group or small group instruction, she is fully engaged and always ready to lend a helping hand. Mia believes students should be kind, treat others with respect, and help when they can, and she models that behavior every single day.

While she especially loves recess, particularly the swings and playing tag with friends, Mia also enjoys science. She likes learning about the weather and chemicals and recently has been excited about mastering addition and subtraction. She says Ms. Terry makes learning fun. Her favorite book is The Three Little Pigs, especially the part where the pigs build their houses. She admires the pig who built with bricks because he made a strong and smart choice.

When it is time to relax, Mia enjoys watching Frozen and loves Elsa. Her favorite song is Lady Lady by Olivia Dean. Outside of school, she stays active as a Henderson Recreation and Parks cheerleader and takes dance classes at Ballet Arts, where she studies hip hop, ballet, tumble, and tap. She even teaches her friends the cheers she learns. Mia also enjoys supporting her brother and cousin at their games and often shares updates about their practices and competitions.

She attends Oak Level Church and enjoys spending time with her family, including her big brother Kobe, who is in fifth grade, and her Cane Corso, Cane. Her favorite colors are pink, purple, and light blue, and she loves spaghetti.

Mia dreams of becoming a police officer like her mom. She admires her mom for her strength, her love, and her cooking, especially her chicken with rice and green beans. Mia also treasures the time they spend cuddling and reading together. If she could have any superpower, she would choose teleportation so she could get places faster. If she had a magic wand, she would wish for a strawberry doughnut from Krispy Kreme. She hopes to travel to the Bahamas on a cruise where she can hold a parrot and swim in the pool.

Mia says the best part of being a student at New Hope is the strong sense of community, especially morning meetings on the carpet and wellness activities that help students start their day in a positive way. She comes to school each day ready to learn new things, see her friends, and grow. Her enthusiasm, compassion, and joyful presence remind everyone what it means to be a New Hope Wildcat, and her school community is proud to celebrate her in this Student Spotlight.

 

Paisley David – Dabney Elementary 

Dabney Elementary proudly recognizes 4th grader Paisley David as their 2025-2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Paisley is an active and enthusiastic learner who consistently gives her best in every lesson and activity. She loves reading and excels in it, enjoys learning fractions, and embraces challenges with a positive attitude. Her curiosity and dedication make her a shining example of what it means to be a ROCK student, showing Respect, taking Ownership, displaying Courage, and using Know How every day.

Paisley dreams of becoming an astronaut, inspired by her passion for space and her desire to help people learn more about Earth and the universe. If she could have a superpower, she would choose teleportation so she could instantly visit her uncle across the country. She also hopes to use her abilities to make the world better, wishing for endless access to food for those experiencing homelessness.

Beyond her academics, Paisley enjoys playing outdoors, exploring her creativity through arts and crafts, and spending time with her family. Her favorite book is Dork Diaries, her favorite movie is Five Nights at Freddy’s, and her favorite song is “The Milk Carton” by Madeline May. She looks up to her father for his example of curiosity, responsibility, and how to approach challenges with care.

Paisley is also a kind, dependable, and caring peer. She looks out for others, offers help when needed, and sets a positive example through her actions. She represents Dabney Elementary well both in and out of the classroom, consistently demonstrating respect, responsibility, and good character. When asked what advice she would give other students, Paisley said, “Try your best at everything, and you can accomplish hard things.” 

Paisley David makes a lasting impact at Dabney Elementary by encouraging her peers, approaching every challenge with enthusiasm, and spreading positivity throughout the school.

The Local Skinny! VC Fire Dept. Provides Certification Update At Commissioners’ Meeting

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Vance County Fire Chief Marvin Harrison got something Monday from the Vance County Board of Commissioners that he may not have been expecting: a standing ovation.

Harrison shared with commissioners the recent certifications members of his department had received in the areas of medium and rescue and emergency medical responder from the N.C. Rescue and Emergency Management Services Commission.

Commissioner Tommy Hester commended Harrison for his efforts. “The job you’ve done here (is) outstanding in moving this forward. Your leadership has made this happen,” Hester said.

In prepared remarks, Harrison thanked commissioners for their support “to build a strategic plan and follow through with action.”

In the past few months, the county’s fire department has acquired equipment that has strengthened its operational capabilities in measurable ways, Harrison said.

“Vance County Fire is not keeping pace,” he continued, “we are positioning ourselves to lead in public safety and service delivery.”

He said he is proud of the fire personnel for continuing to pursue additional training and certifications that will raise the professional standard of the department. He included the volunteer department’s staffs as well, saying they were making the same commitment.

“It speaks volumes about the culture we are building,” Harrison said. “Rooted in service, accountability and pride in protecting Vance County.”

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TownTalk: VC BoC Discuss Revaluation Cycle, Jail Health Coverage, & Upcoming Budget

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The Vance County Board of Commissioners voted Monday to change the tax revaluation cycle from 8 years to 6 years.

Commissioner Tommy Hester made the motion to shorten the tax cycle, and several other commissioners chimed in to express support. Commissioner Dan Brummitt voted against the motion.

“I understand the concept, but we’re not there yet,” Brummitt said during discussion of the issue at the Feb. 16 meeting.

“I understand we need to be talking about it, but we’re not there yet,” he reiterated, adding that the local market had stabilized somewhat. The most recent tax revaluation and subsequent higher tax bills, fueled by what Brummitt called a “market anomaly,” was no longer occurring, contributing to the more stable prices.

“I don’t think now is the time to do it,” he said.

County Manager C. Renee Perry brought up the issue during her report to commissioners. Perry said she would expect the price tag for a typical revaluation to come in at about $695,000.

The most recent revaluation cost about $900,000 because commissioners had asked for a full measurement of all properties which required more time – and money – to complete.

Perry said the county could expect revenue of between $1.1 million and $1.5 million every 6 years.

“Of course, there’s a cost associated with it, but we would realize revenue quicker than we what we would normally realize revenue,” Perry stated.

Brummitt cited an increased county budget over the last few years and has said previously that he would like to see the county spend less.

“Our budget has gone from $47 million to $68 million in four years and our taxpayers are hurting,” he said. “We need to do whatever we can to try to cut the costs for our taxpayers.”

Hester said nobody, himself included, likes to pay taxes. “But going eight years was a big sticker shock – a big, big sticker shock.”

Health care at the county detention center was also part of Perry’s report to commissioners.

She recommended, and the commissioners approved, that Southern Health Partners once again provide health care for detainees at the county jail.

The present provider, ACH, wanted more than $1 million to continue – up from about $400,000 in the current agreement and wanted to provide 24/7 services. Perry said this service is not a service the jail needs.

After speaking with several other providers, Perry said she recommended Southern Health Partners to begin services in early March.

This company had provided health care to the jail until a few years ago, citing safety concerns as the main reason for pulling out.

The county will pay Southern Health Partners just more than $435,000 to provide the necessary care to detainees. Because the company also works in nearby counties, it will be easier to get coverage when necessary.

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TownTalk: VC BoC Adds Dress & Appearance Policy

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The Vance County Board of Commissioners voted for and adopted a dress and appearance policy at their recent board meeting.

(Our WIZS written coverage will appear here soon.)

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WIZS Election Coverage: Candidates In Vance County Sheriff Contest

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Editor’s Note: WIZS contacted the three candidates for Vance County Sheriff and asked them to provide written responses to a series of questions to give voters some insight about their experience and background as the March 3 primary approaches.

Incumbent Curtis Brame faces challengers Sterlin M. Walker, Jr. and Sean Alston, Sr. Early voting began Feb. 12 and continues through Feb. 28.

Following are the unedited responses in their entirety from the three candidates. WIZS used AI to randomly select the order in which the candidates’ responses would be presented.

 

Sterlin M. Walker, Jr.

  • Why are you running for sheriff?

My name is Sterlin M. Walker, Jr. and I am running for the Office of Sheriff of Vance County. In this culture of mistrust of law enforcement, I want to be the bridge between the community and the law enforcement community that serves you. We all want a place where our children and grandchildren can grow, live, learn, play and thrive. A community where its citizens can earn a decent living and not worry about their homes and businesses being targeted for break-ins for what you have worked so hard to obtain. Together with the communities’ assistance, we can put a dent in what drives these activities. I will partner with surrounding law enforcement agencies on the local, state and federal levels to address the needs of Vance County. Any one of us can fall victim to crime at any given time regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, religion or sexual orientation and it will take all of us together to address the needs of Vance County. If elected Sheriff of Vance County, I will have an open mind and a listening ear for the citizens to voice their concerns and needs. I will endeavor to rebuild the trust and understanding in our community. I was fortunate to learn from some of the best law enforcement officers in this nation and I will put that knowledge and expertise to work in service for this our community.

  • What’s your platform?

My platform is based on true transparency, accountability, commitment, honor and integrity. As I said earlier, I want the public to rebuild their trust in the law enforcement agencies of this county that serves them.

  • What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this community faces in the next two years? Five years?

My 2 year plan will first begin with recruiting officers who have the desire and drive to serve the citizens of Vance County. Secondly, the retention of good personnel is paramount. I want to recruit citizens who want to be deputies who actually live in the communities that they serve. I want the deputies who are currently employed as VCSO personnel to feel empowered to make a difference in the lives of Vance County Citizens for the better. 95% of the classes we take are FREE to law enforcement officers. Thirdly I want deputies who have at least 4 years of experience to be allowed to obtain an Instructor’s Certification, so they can conduct in-house training for the officers of the VCSO.

My 5 year plan would run concurrent with my 2 year plan, because of the issues currently facing the Vance County Detention Center. The next priority will be to rebuild working relationships within the County, so every aspect of public safety works smoothly with each other. I will implement a Ride-Along program, so that members of the community and the Vance County Board of Commissioners can see first-hand the duties and responsibilities that law enforcement officers face every day.

  • As an elected official, how will you address these issues?

I will engage the community in public forums, host community events in each district and every municipality located in Vance County. This would go a long way in rebuilding the trust of the community that we serve. I would be open to possibly starting a Citizens On Patrol (COP) program, along with having Community Watch meetings.

  • What role do you see yourself having in managing the existing detention center and the challenges it faces amidst probable construction of a new facility?

I would insist on having state of the art equipment, such as the County can afford. We can implement systems that can be add-ons, meaning we implement systems that as we obtain funding we can upgrade the system instead of buying equipment that becomes obsolete within 2 years of going online. Or having X-ray equipment in a facility that hasn’t seen a day of operation.

  • What’s your experience in the public sector? What’s your resume for being sheriff?

I have 25 years of law enforcement experience starting out as a patrol officer, field training officer, undercover officer, investigative experience, specialized assignments and I have served as a supervisor with both the Henderson Police Department and the Vance County Sheriff’s Office of patrol teams and special law enforcement units. I have written policy for both agencies that minimize risk and liabilities, while yielding maximum results. In those 25 years I have served every agency as a Field Training Officer going back to when I began my service with the North Carolina State University Department of Public Safety. I have been assigned to Presidential Security details during my career. As a certified Criminal Justice Instructor with over 20 years experience I have taught on various levels. I have taught every course in the Basic Law Enforcement curriculum except Firearms and Defensive Tactics. I specialized in Emergency Response, Defensive Driving and Pursuit Driving for Law Enforcement Officers; Taser Instructor and Taser Technician, I am qualified as an expert witness in Taser related deaths and Active Shooter Response for Law Enforcement. If you add up all of my time in relation to my law enforcement career, I have over 47 years of law enforcement combined experience.

  • If you are running for re-election, what are some highlights of your service in your role?

I am running for my first term.

  • If you’re a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?

My role as Sheriff is to oversee the operation and supervision of the Vance County Sheriff’s Office. I would offer guidance to all citizens of Vance County in whatever role they choose to serve. No matter how you operate in Vance County, i.e. concerned citizens or County Commissioner, I will endeavor to provide you the best service I know how. I am not a politician; I’m a cop who wants to make a positive impact on your lives.

  • Please share any additional information that you want voters to know about you.

I would urge every citizen to research each candidate that wants your support for public office for yourself. Find out the candidates’ qualification and make an informed decision about your vote that will affect your life and the lives of your family, friends and loved ones for the next four years. If you don’t make your voice heard, you have No right to complain about the process or the service you receive. If you are truly concerned about your community get involved, engage and vote. This Sheriff’s race is not about a popularity contest, it’s about the best man for the job. You can visit my website at www.sterlinwalker.com, all lower case, to see my entire platform and what I bring to the table or you can call me directly at 252-432-7528. I will post my resume on my website and in the local Facebook pages for everyone to view at their convenience. No other candidate has made this offer. Everything I’ve said and done is open for the public to review. Don’t let any political organization tell you how to vote. When the Henderson Vance Black Leadership Caucus runs up to you with a little blue sheet during early voting and election day let them know that you know the candidate that you want to elect. Don’t let a political organization tell you how to vote. Don’t let 45 people of a clique dictate to you, the citizens of Vance County, how you should vote. I have been highlighted in Ballotpedia, which you can view at ballotpedia.org. My name is Sterlin M. Walker, Jr. and I want to be Your next Sheriff. Thank you for your support and vote.

 

Sean Alston, Sr.

  • Why are you running for sheriff?

I am running for Sheriff because I have made a personal decision to help shape the future of local law enforcement in our community. I want to have a direct role in guiding policies that impact public safety, strengthening responsible approaches to issues such as gun violence, and ensuring the jail is managed effectively and professionally on a daily basis. This position is an opportunity to lead meaningful public safety initiatives, positively influence the criminal justice system, and responsibly oversee budgets and personnel. I am committed to providing strong leadership, accountability, and a clear vision for protecting and serving our community.

  • What’s your platform?

My platform is centered on protecting Vance County and restoring confidence in public safety. I am committed to leading a disciplined, well-trained Sheriff’s Office and ensuring a safer, better-managed detention center. My focus will be on officer safety, constitutional policing, strong supervision, and clear accountability to the people we serve.

If elected, I will bring experienced leadership to the forefront. A retired First Sergeant from the N.C. State Highway Patrol with 30 years of service has committed to serve as my second-in-command, and a Lieutenant from another law enforcement agency has committed to serve in a key leadership role as well. My plan is to surround this office with proven experience, structure, and balance so that we can build a professional organization that operates with integrity, consistency, and respect for the community.

  • What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this community faces in the next two
    years? Five years?

Key Issues Facing Our Community:

The Safety and Welfare of the Jail and Those Inside It
One of my top priorities is improving conditions within the detention center by focusing on the safety, health, and welfare of both staff and inmates. This includes taking strong, proactive steps to stop the flow of contraband, strengthening security procedures, increasing supervision, and ensuring the facility is managed with professionalism, structure, and accountability.

Restoring Balance and Responsibility to the Budget
The Sheriff’s office must be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. I believe spending should be disciplined, transparent, and aligned with real operational needs. My goal is to carefully review expenditures, eliminate waste, prioritize resources where they are most needed, and ensure the Sheriff’s Office operates efficiently while still supporting deputies and public safety efforts.

Stronger Leadership and Administrative Accountability
Leadership sets the tone for the entire agency. I am committed to building an administration that values accountability, professionalism, and teamwork. I will surround myself with experienced, knowledgeable individuals who bring strong ideas, sound judgment, and a willingness to challenge and improve the organization. By bringing in people who are skilled and forward-thinking, we create a stronger structure, better decision-making, and a more effective Sheriff’s Office for the community.

Additional Focus Areas:

  • Strengthening trust between law enforcement and the community through transparency and consistent communication.
  • Supporting deputies with proper training, equipment, and leadership so they can perform their jobs safely and effectively.
  • Improving internal policies and supervision to ensure fairness, consistency, and high professional standards.
  • Creating a culture of integrity where the public knows their Sheriff’s Office is working in their best interest every day.

 

  • As an elected official, how will you address these issues?

As an elected official, I will address these issues by being willing to have the tough, honest conversations that are necessary to build strong working relationships and better serve the people of this community. In my roles as an elected Commissioner/Chair and an appointed Magistrate Judge, I understand the importance of communication, collaboration, and accountability when it comes to solving complex problems.

I will focus on bringing spending under control by taking a hard look at the budget, encouraging responsible decision-making, and ensuring that resources are being used wisely and effectively. Fiscal discipline and transparency will be key priorities.

I will also work closely with city police, surrounding agencies, and regional partners to take a more coordinated approach to addressing drugs, illegal guns, and trafficking. Strong partnerships and information-sharing are essential to making a real impact on crime.

In addition, I will prioritize building a stronger, more productive relationship with the District Attorney’s Office so we can better serve the public, improve case outcomes, and help reduce the jail population in a responsible and lawful way. By strengthening these partnerships and focusing on accountability at every level, we can create a safer, more efficient, and more trusted public safety system.

  • What role do you see yourself having in managing the existing detention center and the challenges it faces amidst probable construction of a new facility?

I see my role as taking an active, hands-on approach in overseeing the daily operations and long-term direction of the detention center, especially as we face ongoing challenges and the possible transition to a new facility. I will hold myself personally accountable for how the jail is managed and ensure that it operates with professionalism, structure, and clear standards.

My focus will be on treating inmates with dignity and respect while maintaining a safe environment for officers, staff, and the public. I believe transparency is essential, so I will be open with the community about both the progress we make and the challenges we face. Rather than making excuses about past decisions, I will focus on solutions, strong leadership, and improving operations moving forward.

As we prepare for the potential construction of a new facility, I will work to ensure a smooth transition by addressing current operational issues, strengthening policies, improving supervision, and setting a higher standard for accountability. My goal is to build a detention system the community can trust—one that is secure, well-managed, and focused on safety, fairness, and responsibility.

  • What’s your experience in the public sector? 

My public service experience has been built through years of leadership, mentorship, and involvement in both civic and community-based roles. I am a member of Masonic Lodge 151 and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, organizations that emphasize service, integrity, and community support. I have also spent many years working with young people as a coach, serving as a former middle school baseball coach, a football and basketball coach at Louisburg High School, and as the former Vance County JV Head Basketball Coach and Assistant Football Coach at Vance County High School.

These roles allowed me to mentor youth, work with families, and build strong ties within the community. In addition to my community involvement, (as a Vance County Commissioner previously), I have gained firsthand experience in public leadership, decision-making, and addressing the needs of the citizens I represent. Together, these experiences reflect my long-standing commitment to service, leadership, and making a positive impact in the public sector.

(Editor’s Note: Alston is a former Vance County Commissioner for District 3 and has been a magistrate. He was chair of the commissioners when he resigned effective Dec. 31, 2024 to take a job as a Warren County magistrate. There is an edit to his response above in parenthesis. After speaking with the candidate after the deadline to submit responses, it was obvious a computer word processing program changed his script from what he intended.)

  • What’s your resume for being Sheriff?

My background combines military service, law enforcement experience, education, and public leadership, all of which have prepared me to serve effectively as Sheriff.

I am a veteran with 12 years of service in Military Intelligence, where I developed strong skills in discipline, operations, security awareness, and decision-making under pressure. I have also worked for more than 20 years as a Fugitive Recovery Agent and Bail Bondsman, giving me extensive hands-on experience in locating offenders, understanding the criminal justice system, and working closely with law enforcement agencies.

My educational background supports my practical experience. I earned an accounting degree through the military, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, and a Master’s degree in Behavioral and Social Science with a focus on mental health. This combination allows me to understand not only the operational side of law enforcement, but also budgeting, administration, and the mental health challenges that often impact those within the justice system.

In addition, I have served as a County Commissioner and Chairman, where I have experience overseeing budgets, policies, and public safety matters at the county level. I also served as a Magistrate Judge, which has given me direct experience with the court system, warrants, and legal processes.

Together, my military service, field experience, education, and leadership roles have prepared me to lead with structure, accountability, and a strong understanding of both law enforcement operations and the community we serve.

  • If you are running for re-election, what are some highlights of your service in your role?

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  • If you’re a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an
    elected body? 

Definitely not a newcomer; goal is still the same, ensure that the citizens of Vance County are priority.

  • Please share any additional information that you want voters to know about you.

While a traditional law enforcement background can be valuable, it is not a legal requirement to serve as Sheriff. The primary requirement is to pass the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) background check. I believe some of the strongest sheriffs come directly from the community because they understand the mindset, concerns, and needs of the people they serve.

Experience alone is not enough without leadership. True leadership means listening, building trust, making sound decisions, and standing accountable to the public. The role of Sheriff is ultimately decided by the people through a popular vote, which means the office should reflect the voice and values of the community.

My goal is to help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the citizens we serve by focusing on unity, accountability, and shared purpose. Together, we can move toward a stronger, safer future built on trust, respect, and leadership that truly represents the people.

 

Curtis R. Brame;

  • Why are you running for sheriff?

To continue to serve and protect the citizens of Vance County.

  • What’s your platform?

Continue to address the priorities that are affecting our communities.

  • What are the top three issues that, in your opinion, this community faces in the next two years? Five years?

Narcotics, distributing of fentanyl & Opioids that are contributing to overdoses and death, gun violence, mental health, school and Security in the Place of Worship.

  • As an elected official, how will you address these issues?

Continue to address salary issues with our Board of Commissioners in order to retain and attract personnel so we can effectively work cases and serve our community.

  • What role do you see yourself having in managing the existing detention center and the challenges it faces amidst probable construction of a new facility?

Continue to work with our County Manager, Board of Commissioners, Project Manager, existing Command Staff in both projects, contractors and architects. Solicit information from Sheriffs that have recent constructed a new detention center

  • What’s your experience in the public sector?

Community Leader with experience, Open door policy to all, transparent in sharing information.

  • What’s your resume for being sheriff?

Over 40 years’ experience with continued education, well trained law enforcement officer officers and have served this county as Sheriff for the last 7 years.

  • If you are running for re-election, what are some highlights of your service in your role? Staying the course, continue to serve this county to the best of my ability, protecting and serving, being fair, firm and consistent at all times.
  • If you’re a newcomer to politics, what role do you see yourself playing as a member of an elected body?

 

  • Please share any additional information that you want voters to know about you.

Review our resume, qualifications, work history, years of training, experience and criminal and civil background for criminal charges or civil lawsuits.

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