Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

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Vance Co. Board of Commissioners to Hold Monthly Meeting Nov. 4

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-Information courtesy Kelly H. Grissom, Clerk to Board/Executive Asst., County of Vance

The Vance County Board of Commissioners will meet Monday, November 4, 2019, at 6 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room, 122 Young Street, Henderson. The Invocation will be given by Pastor Bobby Fletcher, First United Methodist Church.

Agenda items include:

1. Public Comments (for those registered to speak by 5:45 p.m. – each speaker is limited to five minutes)

2. Appointment – 6 p.m. – Alan Fitzpatrick, Open Broadband

– Broadband Update

3. Appointment – 6:15 p.m. – Porcha Brooks, Tax Administrator

– Untimely Exemption Applications

– Late Listing Appeal

4. Water District Board

a. Committee Report

b. Monthly Operations Report

5. Committee Reports and Recommendations

a. Properties Committee – Eaton Johnson Project

b. Technology Committee

– Online Vital Records Retrieval System

– Preservation of Marriage Licenses (1895 – 1920)

– Public Wi-Fi Agreement

– Broadband – Tower Agreement

6. County Manager’s Report

a. Healthy Opportunities Pilot Grant Support

b. EDC Office Relocation

7. County Attorney’s Report

a. REO Properties – Bid Acceptance

– Spring Valley Road – Parcel 0201 01001

b. REO Properties – New Offers

– 107 Briarcliff Street – Parcel 0214C02025

– Ranes Drive – Parcel 0055 01035

8. Consent Agenda Items

a. Budget Amendments and Transfers

b. Tax Refunds and Releases

c. Monthly Reports

d. Minutes

9. Miscellaneous

a. Appointments

b. December Meeting Date

10. Closed Session

a. Contract Negotiation

Click here to view current and prior Board agendas.

Katie Jones Named Rebuilding Hope’s Nov. Spotlight Volunteer

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-Information courtesy Rebuilding Hope, Inc. 

When Rebuilding Hope needed an online upgrade, it was Katie Jones to the rescue.

“I first heard about RHI from Pastor Ralph McGowan at West End Baptist Church,” Katie says. “My parents are long-time members there, and I was a member before I got married and my husband and I moved away for several years. He mentioned that Rebuilding Hope was in need of some web design help, and I had a little experience with this. He took me to meet Randolph and Gail Wilson. Thankfully, I was a good fit and have been able to help with setting up the new website and adding monthly updates.”

Katie Jones named Rebuilding Hope’s November 2019 Volunteer of the Month. (Photo Credit: RHI)

Katie, who is a freelance e-commerce manager, data entry specialist and transcriptionist and works from her home, has been an RHI volunteer for about 18 months. The Oxford resident says she was “immediately drawn to the ministry because of Randolph’s passion for serving the local community and drawing others to Christ.”

Katie, a member of Clearview Baptist Church, encourages others to volunteer at RHI. “I think RHI has a great mission and is focused on being a positive influence on our community,” she says.

Katie’s volunteer spirit extends beyond RHI. “An organization that is close to my heart is Renewal Coalition,” she says. The non-profit, based in Jupiter, FL, brings wounded veterans and their families to its property for all-expense-paid retreats where they can relax and spend time together.

Katie and her husband, Steven, helped run the retreats when they lived in Florida. Steven is medically retired from the Marine Corps after being injured in combat in 2011. “This is an organization that means a lot to us,” she says. “We still try to travel back to Jupiter at least once a year to assist with a retreat, and I also help to create Renewal Coalition’s quarterly newsletters.”

At Clearview, Katie, a Henderson native, volunteers in the nursery, and the couple works with the church’s BLAZE kids ministry. Married for eight years, the couple has two sons and a daughter.

‘File of Life’ Pouches Help Make Seconds Count

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-Press Release, Granville County Government

Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and when they do, confusion can often be a result. That’s why the Kerr-Tar Area Agency on Aging, in partnership with the Granville County Senior Center, emergency responders, businesses and faith-based organizations, is sponsoring the local “File of Life” project to help make seconds count.

When first responders arrive at an emergency scene, they usually have no information about the person in need. Does the patient have prior medical conditions or allergies? Are they on medication? How are family members to be contacted? “File of Life” can provide easy and convenient access to information that will help answer these questions, allowing emergency teams to quickly begin the best possible treatment, notify loved ones and pass information on to awaiting physicians in the emergency room.

Since 1995, more than 5,000 communities across the country have implemented a “File of Life” program, gaining the support of national and state civic organizations such as the American Red Cross, the National Council on Aging and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

These information cards – in the form of refrigerator magnet pouches and personal-sized sleeves for wallets, purses or glove boxes – are now available locally through the Granville County Senior Center, the Granville County Sheriff’s Office, Granville County Emergency Services and the Creedmoor Police Department, as well as the Kerr-Tar Area Agency on Aging in Henderson.

Limited sponsorship opportunities are also available to local organizations who would like their name/logo on the front of the information card. If interested, contact Nancy Francis, Kerr-Tar Area Agency on Aging Director, at 252-436-2040.

Vance Co. Regional Food Truck Rally to Offer Something for Every Taste

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-Information courtesy vancecountyfairnc.com

BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE BANNER BELOW TO SIGN UP FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE 8×12 STORAGE BUILDING FROM BUILDER’S DISCOUNT CENTER!

The Vance County Regional Food Truck Rally will be held at the Vance County Fairgrounds, 1427 East Andrews Ave. in Henderson, on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10, 2019, from 12 until 7 p.m.

Enjoy music, activities and plenty of food trucks, including Soul Fresh Spring Rolls, Fatboys Kitchen, Chewly Delicious, Magnificient Creations, El Jefecito Taco Truck, Mr. Cheesesteak, Corner Boys BBQ and Kono Pizza.

Purchase tickets now (click here) through November 8 for a discounted rate or purchase tickets for full price the day of the event. Food tickets are sold in $2 increments with food and drink items ranging from $2-$14.

Kids’ tickets will be available at the door.

For more information, visit vancecountyfairnc.com or click here for the Vance County Regional Fair’s Facebook page.

(This is not a paid advertisement)

VGCC to Offer Enrollment Night on November 19

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Vance-Granville Community College will hold an Enrollment Night on Tuesday, November 19, 2019, from 5 until 7 p.m., at all four of its campuses.

VGCC staff members will be available during those hours to provide information on the enrollment process, academic programs, student support services and financial aid. Advisors will be available to help students register for Spring classes.

Students may visit any campus beginning November 4 to register for Spring Semester. Classes for the Spring 16-week and first 8-week terms start on Monday, January 13, 2020, and a 12-week term starts on Tuesday, February 11.

VGCC’s Main Campus is located at 200 Community College Road, Henderson (Exit 209 on Interstate 85 about midway between Henderson and Oxford).

The Franklin County Campus is located at 8100 N.C. 56., Louisburg (just west of Louisburg).

South Campus is located at 1547 South Campus Drive, Creedmoor (off of N.C. 56, between Creedmoor and Butner).

The Warren County Campus is located at 210 West Ridgeway Street (U.S. 158 Business) in Warrenton.

For more information on enrolling, call (252) 738-3234 or visit any VGCC campus.

Jerry Edmonds

VGCC Names Edmonds to Lead Workforce and Community Engagement

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE BANNER BELOW TO SIGN UP FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A FREE 8×12 STORAGE BUILDING FROM BUILDER’S DISCOUNT CENTER!

Jerry E. Edmonds, III, was recently named Vice President of Workforce Development and Community Engagement at Vance-Granville Community College. In this new position, he will oversee training programs that respond to community needs and prepare students for workforce success, including apprenticeship programs, and support economic development for the region.

In addition, Edmonds will lead the development of partnerships with businesses and government agencies, and coordinate outreach and marketing for the entire college.

Jerry Edmonds, VP of Workforce and Community Engagement. (VGCC photo)

“With the combination of private sector and community college experience that Jerry brings to our college, we look forward to his leadership enhancing VGCC’s ability to serve our communities and build a job-ready workforce,” said Dr. Rachel Desmarais, the college president.

Edmonds most recently served as Dean of Workforce and Economic Development at Halifax Community College. Prior to his role as Dean, he served as the Small Business Center Director at Halifax Community College, from 2014 until 2017. In 2016, Edmonds was a National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) award recipient. In addition, he achieved North Carolina Community College System level three certification, in recognition of the highest level of Small Business Center Network proficiency.

Before entering the higher education field, Edmonds held a variety of executive leadership positions within Johnson & Johnson and IBM, where he was the recipient of numerous training, recruitment, marketing and leadership awards.

Edmonds earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree, with an emphasis on Marketing, from Marshall University in 1985 and his Master of Science degree in Human Services Management from Springfield College in 2001. He is currently working toward a doctoral degree in Higher Education Leadership from Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin.

Edmonds is active on a variety of community boards including Working Landscapes, a non-profit agricultural organization based in Warrenton; the North Carolina Community College System Workforce Development Leadership Council; and the Roanoke Rapids chapter of Rotary International, where he served as President from 2017 – 2018 and as a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow.

“The role of Vance-Granville Community College, and specifically the department of workforce and community engagement, is to educate and train students to perform well in existing and future jobs in our service area and beyond,” Edmonds said. “I am excited to join such a talented team of faculty, staff and administrators dedicated to student success and advancement.”

NC Dept of Agriculture

Wildfire Risk Remains High in North Carolina

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-Press Release, NCDS&CS

The N.C. Forest Service is urging people across North Carolina to remain vigilant in reducing wildfire risk. While recent rainfall brought immediate and temporary relief to much of the state, warmer, drier days combined with winds could quickly dry forest fuels, increasing the risk of wildfire.

Many tourists come to Western North Carolina to see the changing leaves or for extended stays to hunt. Some of these visitors will use campfires as a source of heat. Where there is fire, there is the risk of that fire escaping into areas where fuels are dry and readily available.

“During dry and windy periods of weather with little rainfall, everyone needs to be extra cautious when burning. It takes very little to start a damaging wildfire,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Dry forest fuels are right there, ready to burn if ignited by the tiniest of sparks.”

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

  • Anyone building campfires in an established campground should use existing fire rings if possible and clear a safe area around them of at least 15 feet. Never leave campfires unattended and ensure they are completely out before leaving.
  • Always check the weather prior to burning and follow state and local regulations if you plan to burn yard debris such as leaves, grass, sticks and stubble. There are many factors to consider before burning. Make sure you have a valid burn permit.
  • Use care when removing ashes or coals from wood-burning stoves, fireplaces or pellet stoves. “Often, homeowners will dispose of ashes in their yards, at the edge of the woods, or in landscaped and mulched areas such as flower beds. When ashes or coals are not completely extinguished and fuel conditions are favorable for fire due to dry weather and wind, ashes can reignite and start a wildfire,” said Greg Smith, Mountain Regional Forester with the N.C. Forest Service. “It is best to put the ashes in a metal or steel bucket or barrel and douse them with water while stirring the mixture until the ashes and coals are completely drenched and cold.”
  • Be attentive and cautious when burning backyard fire pits during the fall and winter seasons. Homeowners should handle a fire pit as they would handle a campfire. Clear a safe area around the fire pit of at least 15 feet. Use properly seasoned, dry, split wood for fuel, and do not use flammable fluids, such as gasoline and lighter fluid, to light or relight fires. Use a metal screen to prevent embers from flying out of the fire pit. Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the fire. Make sure you have a hose, bucket and shovel nearby. Keep a phone nearby, too.
  • Always exercise caution with any outdoor burning. Even when burn bans are not in effect, weather conditions may not be favorable for outdoor fires. Outdoor burning is discouraged during periods of low humidity or high winds.

The N.C. Forest Service encourages residents to contact their local county forest ranger before burning debris. The ranger can offer technical advice and explain the best options to help ensure the safety of people, property and the forest.

To find contact information for your local county ranger, go to the forest service website. To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and loss of property, visit www.ncforestservice.gov.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Town Talk 10/29/19: Infinite Possibilities Offers Local Help to Domestic Violence Victims

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In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, WIZS has featured advocacy groups and individuals on Town Talk each Tuesday in October.

To complete the series, Erin Carter, Victim’s Advocate with Infinite Possibilities, Inc., was on Tuesday’s edition of the public affairs presentation to discuss her work with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

“We support those who seek help with domestic violence situations from start to finish,” Carter said. “We accept walk-ins and offer appointments, work on safety planning, complete a danger assessment, discuss their current and any prior abusive situations, assess their needs and refer them to a lawyer if necessary.”

Carter explained the organization works with other domestic violence groups to provide shelter services for individuals and their children who need to be removed from a dangerous home situation.

Children are especially vulnerable in domestic violence situations and will often show signs of emotional or mental trauma in the way they interact with others or how they perform at school, said Carter.

While it is fairly well-known that domestic violence has a detrimental impact on children, Carter said what is not as commonly discussed is the frequency of abuse occurring among church-going families.

“The biggest myth, one that many people believe, is that domestic violence doesn’t happen in the churches, but it does; that’s one of the biggest places you find domestic violence,” said Carter.

Carter explained that her involvement as an advocate has shown that domestic violence victims involved in a religious organization are often ashamed to come forward with abuse allegations. “It’s something that just isn’t talked about in the church, isn’t addressed,” said Carter.

To help combat this stigma, Infinite Possibilities sends letters and information to parishioners every October offering advice on how to speak to their congregation on domestic violence, along with available resources for victims.

If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic violence situation, trained, compassionate, local people are available to help you 24/7. “The biggest tip I can give is to be vocal and speak up. Many times victims suffer in silence because they feel ashamed or uncomfortable,” Carter said.

With office hours available Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and a 24/7 crisis hotline, Infinite Possibilities offers victims a way to “quietly step away instead of making the dangerous move of confronting the abuser themselves,” said Carter.

Infinite Possibilities is located at 314 S. Garnett St. in Henderson and is also available by phone during office hours at (252) 431-1926. The 24/7 hotline is available by calling (252) 425-2492. Assistance is available in English and Spanish.

To hear the interview with Carter 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.

Vance Co. Schools to Host Parent & Family Night

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-Information courtesy Vance County Schools

On Thursday, November 14, 2019, Vance County Schools will be hosting a Parent and Family Night at Vance County High School from 5:30 – 7 p.m. There will be light snacks and childcare for children under 12.  

Topics for the session include “Be SMART,” “The Pep for Career & College Prep” and “Living Longer and Stronger Together.”

“Be SMART” is a public education campaign to reduce the number of unintentional shootings that occur when children or teens get access to guns that are not stored responsibly.

“The Pep for Career & College Prep” will give parents of high school students valuable tools and info to assist them with navigating college entrance steps and ways that VCS is assisting with career prep.

“Living Longer and Stronger Together” is a great session for all parents to learn about healthier eating and discuss the positive and negative effects of the way we eat. 

We are very excited about our sessions and hope to see you there!

MPH Volunteer Services to Hold Dynamic Shopping Event Oct. 30 & 31

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-Information courtesy Lisa Radford, MPH

Dynamic Shopping, a lifestyle show event, will be held at Maria Parham Health in the JT Church classroom in Henderson on Wednesday, October 30 from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Thursday, October 31 from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

A variety of items can be found, from small electronics, cookware, luggage and so much more. Open to the public.

Proceeds benefit Volunteer Services of Maria Parham Health.