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Shop With A Cop Envelope Raffle
Sponsored by the Henderson Police Department, Vance County Sheriff’s Office and Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce.
Thank you for your assistance with this fundraiser to benefit “Shop With A Cop.” When all the envelopes $1 – $180 are sold, collected, and returned back to the Chamber office, our local law enforcement will receive $5,000 to take Vance County disadvantaged youth Christmas shopping at Walmart.
Our Chamber will also be benefiting from the proceeds and using our funds to initiate new programs and enhance value to our Chamber member businesses.
Law enforcement will select 60 of the envelopes and the Chamber will have the remaining 120. Envelopes are numbered $1 – $180 and include a raffle ticket. When you approach someone you know, friend, co-worker, or neighbor, you are going to get a check (made payable to the Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce) for the amount on the front of the envelope. They may also contribute cash.
The contributor will fill out the raffle ticket. They keep the stub and you return the completed raffle ticket portion with their name and phone number in the envelope to the Chamber office. Remind your contributors that their name will be entered into a raffle drawing for cash prizes.
The contributors giving $1 – $40 will be entered to win $200. When they give $41 – $80, they will be entered to win $500. Those contributing $81 – $120 will be entered to win $1,000. And our grand prize of $2,000 will be for those contributing $121 – $180.
To hear the Shop With A Cop interview in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Shop-With-A-Cop-2018-1.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-13 16:57:532019-11-13 16:57:53Town Talk 11/13/19: Contributions Needed for Shop With A Cop Envelope Raffle
VGCC Drama is excited to present Appalachian Geisha December 6 through December 8, 2019, at VGCC’s Main Campus.
This presentation represents a first of its kind collaboration across the North Carolina Community College System. Three Colleges: Vance-Granville Community College, Catawba Valley Community College, and Wake Technical Community College are joining forces to stage this regional premiere. The play—written by Kim Stinson, Director of AFA Theatre and a Professor at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory—will be staged five times over three days.
Front row: (left to right) Rose O’Malley, Blake Lee, Mary Parish, and Rebekah Varker; Middle Row (left to right): Kathleen Zoldos, Brian Johnson, Ashley Asycue, and Lane Wade; Back Row: (left to right): Daniel Thorpe, Savannah Morgan, Ronnie Brodie, Amanda Cease, and Matthew Varker (VGCC photo)
Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on December 6 and 7, with matinees at 2 p.m. on December 7 and 8. There is a special campus matinee on December 6 at 3 p.m. All performances will be in the small auditorium, in Building 2, on the Henderson campus.
Betsy Henderson, director of the show and department chair of Fine Arts and Humanities at VGCC, also serves as Vice-President on the NCCCS AFA Association Board of Directors with Stinson and Lauren La May of Wake Tech. Together, they have worked alongside university partners to draft Comprehensive Articulation Agreements for the AFA Theatre degree for both the UNC system and Independent colleges. This working relationship is where an idea to collaborate across colleges was born.
Stinson, a BFA graduate of North Carolina School of the Arts, also holds an MA in Theatre from Miami University and an MFA in Playwriting from Spalding University. Kim is also a member of the Dramatist Guild, and an award-winning, published playwright.
Geisha was born out of Stinson’s own personal experiences, “Many years ago, I worked with a woman who never wanted to leave home. She didn’t enjoy traveling and had absolutely no desire to go anywhere. That way of thinking seemed so strange to me. I wanted to explore the way that someone else’s mind worked. At the same time, my love for other cultures always drew me to Asia and Asian theatre styles.” Stinson added, “Appalachian Geisha started as my creative thesis for my MFA in Playwriting degree and has grown and changed in subsequent versions. It is a work in which I explore combining western and eastern cultures, along with writing a main character who is so incredibly different from me, in an attempt to understand my former co-worker.”
Lauren La May, a BA graduate in Theatre Design and Production from UNC Asheville, also holds an MA in Theatre from the University of Toronto, and a PhD in Theatre from the University of Georgia. Currently, she is a Theatre Instructor within the Communications and Theatre Department at Wake Tech Community College.
La May began working as a dramaturge while at the University of Georgia. After receiving her doctorate, she gained a position with Virginia Stage Company in their educational division to create curriculum and study guides for shows. Le May says, “Through Dramaturgy, I get to continue in my love of history and research while working with playwrights, directors, actors and designers. I love the chance to work with a production team again and am excited for this collaboration with my colleagues from other community colleges.”
Henderson was interested in giving VGCC drama students the opportunity to work so closely with a playwright and dramaturge, and to have these theatre professionals be a part of the rehearsal process. “Not many young actors get to have such an experience,” says Henderson. Both Stinson and La May will also be attending performances of Geisha, where they will take part in a talk-back discussion enabling audiences to ask questions of the cast, crew, playwright, and dramaturge. Talkback discussions will occur immediately following the Friday and Saturday evening performances and there is no extra charge for the audience to attend.
The cast and crew are comprised of both VGCC and Early College students (Vance and Warren Counties). Actors include Savannah Morgan, Brian Johnson, Mary Parish, Rose O’Malley, Daniel Thorpe, Kathleen Zoldos, Blake Lee, and Ashley Ayscue. Brother and sister Matthew and Rebekah Varker serve as Stage Managers.
The production crew includes Lane Wade, Josh Nehy, Ronnie Brodie, Tre’quan Johnson, and Amanda Cease.
Admission is $15 for the general public and $10 for students and VGCC employees. Tickets may be purchased at the door, but attendees are encouraged to secure their seats by purchasing tickets online. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/appalachian-geisha-tickets-80859983387
For more information, contact Betsy Henderson at (252) 738-3371, or hendersonb@vgcc.edu.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/VGCC-Appalachian-Geisha-Cast.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-13 16:56:102019-11-13 16:56:10VGCC Drama to Present ‘Appalachian Geisha’ Dec 6-8
Dr. Stephen Pearson, co-owner of the newly opened Sadie’s Coffee Corner in downtown Henderson, was the guest of honor on Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.
On Saturday, November 9, Pearson and wife Amanda celebrated the grand opening of the coffee shop located in the former Gupton’s Gun Shop building at 324 S. Garnett Street.
“The grand opening was awesome,” said Pearson. “We got to meet all kinds of people from town. A lot of people expressed joy in having a place to come, sit down, relax and get a good coffee.”
With local offerings from Wake Forest-based Black and White Coffee Roasters, Lake Gaston Coffee, Durham-based Big Spoon Roasters, Enfield Honey Farm in Halifax and baked goods from Strong Arm Baking Company in Oxford, the Pearsons are investing in the area they now call home.
Formerly based in Tampa, FL, the Pearsons began to familiarize themselves with the area when Stephen’s job as a contract worker for the government required travel to nearby Youngsville and Raleigh-based customers.
“Amanda fell in love with North Carolina and we decided to find somewhere that would be a great place to live,” explained Stephen. “We came to Henderson and saw some opportunity. We saw a town that possibly could use some investment.”
Alluding to the Henderson-Vance Downtown Development Commission and the City of Henderson’s efforts to reinstate the area to North Carolina Main Street status, Pearson said part of the attraction to downtown was the revitalization movement.
“To get a Main Street running the way it’s supposed to you need to have a barbershop and a coffee shop – places where people can do communal things. A place where people can have disagreements without arguments, talk politics or religion. When we came here, we were looking for a place like that and couldn’t find one. So we knew there was a natural need for it, and we believe downtown can grow from that.”
As for the name of their new venture, Pearson said the couple needed to look no further than their own loyal dog.
“Every day when I come home, my golden retriever Sadie sits at the door, wags her tail, has a big smile on her face and is happy to see me. When you walk through our doors, we want to put a smile on your face and know that you’re welcome,” said Pearson.
Sadie’s Coffee Corner is open seven days a week; Monday – Friday from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday & Sunday from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.
To hear the interview with Pearson in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.
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https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Sadies-Coffee-Corner.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2019-11-12 16:57:562019-11-12 16:57:56Town Talk 11/12/19: Sadie’s Coffee Corner Open for Business in Downtown Henderson!
100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm
Lt. Derrick Smith, with the Vance County Salvation Army, and Henderson Mayor Eddie Ellington were on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss the grand opening of the new Salvation Army building.
Located at 2292 Ross Mill Road in Henderson, the new location held a two-part grand opening event on Sunday, November 10. According to Smith, the 11 a.m. church worship service was attended by approximately 175 community members and leaders.
“It was a phenomenal day; the weather was beautiful,” Smith said. “It was exciting to have so many from our community and to have the support of the community all in one place, at one time.”
At a separate 3 p.m. service, Smith and his wife Lt. Odessa Smith welcomed guests for a ribbon-cutting and official grand opening celebration.
Ellington, who was in attendance, echoed Smith’s assessment on the celebratory mood of the event and said many citizens are likely unaware of the impact the Salvation Army has on the community.
“The mission of the Salvation Army throughout the world and our community speaks volumes. A lot of people don’t know the impact the organization has right here in Henderson and Vance County,” Ellington stated.
Also present for the occasion were former Salvation Army Captain Rick Langley and wife Angie, who headed the local operation from 2012 until their retirement in June 2019. Smith said the event was special for the Langleys because they saw the new building through from concept to completion.
“They are really good folks,” said Smith. “They were here for about seven years, so to follow behind them makes our job easier.”
With the grand opening, the Salvation Army is now fully operational in the Ross Mill Road location. Smith said the first order of business will be to focus on Christmas efforts, such as the annual red kettle campaign that begins Friday, November 15.
The Salvation Army also operates its new store – located at 218 Raleigh Road in Henderson – while maintaining the former store – located at 222 W. Montgomery Street – for storage and organization purposes.
The completion of the new location and planned ball fields on the 40-acre lot located near Mako Medical Laboratories and Vance Charter School will allow the Smiths to focus on what previous studies have indicated is a big need for the community – youth services.
In a prior interview with WIZS, Odessa Smith said, “One of the biggest needs is youth development. We would like to have after-school programs, mentoring programs and partnerships with local schools and other community organizations.”
While the Salvation Army will continue to work with community partners to expand services, Smith said the mission of the organization is strong and already established.
“This is a building for the community,” said Smith. “It will help us in our mission to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.”
To hear the interview with Smith and Ellington in its entirety, click here. Their segment begins at the 22:20 mark. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hendeson-Salvation-Army-Bldg.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2019-11-12 16:57:442019-11-12 16:57:11Salvation Army’s Lt. Smith Talks ‘Phenomenal’ Grand Opening of New Building
100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm
-Information courtesy Betty Boyd
The Second Thursday Food Distribution will be held at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market off Beckford Drive in Henderson on Thursday, November 14, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. No identification or paperwork is required to receive food.
Participants remain in their vehicles and volunteers place a box of fresh vegetables and fruits in the vehicle at no charge. One box is available per adult.
Law enforcement is on-site to assist with traffic control
This is a joint partnership of St. James Missionary Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Henderson to bring fresh produce to the citizens of Vance County.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Food-Distribution-Box.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-12 16:56:202019-11-12 16:56:20FREE Fresh Produce Available at Second Thurs. Food Distribution
100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm
-Information courtesy Tara Goolsby, Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Facilities Supervisor, Aycock Recreation Center
Mark your calendar for “Cookies & Milk With Santa” at the Aycock Rec. Center, 307 Carey Chapel Rd., Henderson, on Saturday, December 14, 2019, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Enjoy free cookies and milk, make a holiday ornament and visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your camera to photograph your child with Santa!
For more information, please call Crystal Allen at (252) 431-6091 or email callen@ci.henderson.nc.us.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Cookies-With-Santa-2019.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-12 16:54:222019-11-12 16:54:22Mark Your Holiday Calendar for ‘Cookies & Milk With Santa’
Mark Ferri, veteran and Vance County Animal Shelter volunteer, was on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss the shelter’s upcoming Veterans Dog Walk event.
The event – Paws, Tails and Boots – will be held at the shelter, located at 1243 Brodie Rd. in Henderson, on Saturday, November 16, 2019, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The public is welcome, with veterans, first responders and their families strongly encouraged to attend.
During the event, shelter volunteers and staff will be on-hand to answer questions and encourage participants who are eligible to commit to adopting an animal.
Founded by Ferri in 2016, the dog walk serves the twofold purpose of matching animals with loving owners and raising awareness of mental health issues.
According to Ferri, traumatic experiences are something that the shelter dogs and many veterans and first responders have in common and interactions between the two can be healing.
“It’s very therapeutic,” Ferri said. “A lot of people that have participated in the dog walk in the past have told me they feel like it’s a real help to them; the dogs love it too. You can come out and enjoy yourself without any kind of judgment from anyone or fear of being ridiculed or embarrassed.”
Fortunately, according to Ferri, society is becoming more aware and responsive to PTSD and other mental health issues. “Society isn’t very kind to the mentally ill; however, a lot of people are trying to turn that tide to get away from the stigma.”
To hear the interview with Ferri in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Veterans-Dog-Walk-Nov.-2019.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2019-11-11 16:58:442019-11-11 16:58:44Town Talk 11/11/19: Upcoming Veterans Dog Walk ‘Therapeutic’ for Dogs, Participants
100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm
Poplar Creek Baptist Church will hold a gospel singing and dinner show with “Unashamed,” a Southern Gospel Quartet, in the Family Life Center on Friday, November 22, 2019.
A hot dog dinner will be held from 6 until 7:15 p.m.; music will be performed from 7:15 until 8:15 p.m.
All ages are welcome and childcare will be provided.
Poplar Creek Baptist is located at 1371 Poplar Creek Rd. in Henderson.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Unashamed-Gospel-Quartet.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-11 16:55:542019-11-11 16:55:54Poplar Creek Baptist to Host ‘Unashamed’ at Gospel Singing, Dinner Show
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-Information courtesy JoAnn Wilder, Co-Chair, Carey Chapel Community Watch
The Carey Chapel Community Watch will hold its next meeting on Monday, November 25, 2019, in the Fellowship Hall of Carey Baptist Church. The guest speaker will be a representative of the Vance County DOT.
All members and area residents are encouraged to attend this meeting.
Carey Baptist Church is located at 1295 Carey Chapel Road in Henderson.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Carey-Baptist-Church-Logo.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-11 16:55:112019-11-11 16:55:11Carey Chapel Community Watch to Meet Nov. 25
-Information courtesy The Salvation Army of Henderson, NC
The public is invited to the Grand Opening of Henderson’s new Salvation Army facility on Sunday, November 10, 2019.
A church dedication will be held at 11 a.m. and a ribbon-cutting and Open House event will be held at 3 p.m. at the new building located at 2292 Ross Mill Road in Henderson.
The public is invited to attend.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Hendeson-Salvation-Army-Bldg.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2019-11-08 16:59:042019-11-08 16:59:04Salvation Army to Hold Open House Event for New Facility This Weekend
