Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

Early-Morning Crash Shuts Down Vance County’s Verizon, Spectrum Services

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A trash truck struck a low-hanging line near the intersection of NC 39 North and Spring Valley roads early Thursday morning, creating major disruptions to customers with Spectrum internet and Verizon wireless services.

According to Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow, the crash occurred at 4:30 a.m. Barrow said at this time, services are expected to be restored sometime Friday, Nov. 1.

As of Thursday morning, Vance County 911 calls are being forwarded to Granville County for dispatch during the service disruption.

Among other services affected include KARTS, which cannot receive calls during this outage. Additionally, a social media post from Vance County government states that county offices “have lost internet connectivity in all county buildings, and lost network, server and phone access in most buildings.”

 

 

 

 

 

Rebuilding Hope, Inc. Project Roll On

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The staff at Rebuilding Hope, Inc. has announced that its application office will be closed from Wednesday through Friday of this week so the driveway and parking lot can be repaved.

This is a project that has been needed for some time, according to Randolph Wilson. The nonprofit organization’s Project Roll On fundraiser has been going on for several months now, culminating in the paving project that will take place later this week.

Visit www.rebuildinghopeinc.org to learn about the programs and services offered at the 414 Raleigh Rd. location or to make an online donation.

Vance Early College Gets Ninth A In A Row, In Top 5 Percent Of N.C. Schools

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— Press release courtesy of VCS Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin

Vance County Early College gets an A – for the 9th year in a row – and is ranked among the top 5 percent of public schools across the state for the 2023-24 school year.

More than 80 percent of VCEC graduates enroll in a four-year college or university after graduating high school, a figure that highlights the way the school prepares its students for higher education and future success, according to a press statement from Vance County Schools Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved—our students who strive for excellence, our teachers and staff who inspire and support them, and our parents who play an essential role in their education,” said Principal Debbie Hite.

Hite said she appreciates the support from the school district and said the school’s culture for success is a collective effort. “It truly takes all of us! From our instructional coaches and child nutrition staff to the dedicated members of the superintendent’s cabinet and our transportation team, every individual plays a crucial role in supporting our students and enriching their educational experiences. I would also like to commend the leadership of our superintendent, whose vision and commitment to academic excellence have been instrumental in guiding our district toward success.”

Of Vance-Granville Community College, VCEC’s educational partner, Hite said, “We want to extend our gratitude to Vance-Granville Community College. Their support and resources have been essential in enhancing our students’ learning experiences and paving the way for their future success.”

VCEC offers an innovative educational model in partnership with VGCC. The school is located on VGCC’s main campus, giving students a unique opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree simultaneously. This blend of high school and college courses equips students with a head start on their higher education journey and helps them develop the skills and knowledge to excel in college and beyond.

VCS Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett praised Hite and the school’s commitment to teaching and learning. “The collaborative approach to teaching and learning, a focus on personalized learning pathways, and the commitment to an environment where students and staff are supported, challenged, and constantly learning and evolving is truly a model for success,” Bennett stated.

‘Shop With A Cop And Friends’ Envelope Raffle Fundraiser Underway

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Tickets are available now to participate in the annual “Shop with a Cop and Friends” envelope raffle, and if you’re new to the process, Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce President Sandra Wilkerson explained how it works.

There are 180 tickets for sale, and each ticket number is the price you pay for the ticket. That part’s easy to understand – but there’s an extra layer that creates a little buzz and excitement for those who purchase tickets.

The ticket number, Wilkerson said, will determine one of four drawings and the chance to win some cash. Contributors that purchase tickets for $1 through $40 will be entered to win $200. Those that get tickets $41 through $80 will be entered to win $1,000, and ticketholders of the $121 through $180 tickets will have a shot at the grand prize of $2,000.

But that’s not all!

Everyone who purchases a ticket for $100 or more will also receive a ticket to attend the “Shop with a Cop Celebratory Reception” that will be held at the Henderson Country Club on Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Additional tickets will also be sold for $20 each. Appetizers, tea and lemonade will be available and there will be a cash bar.  Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow and Sheriff Curtis Brame will lead the celebration, drawing the winners for the cash prizes, selling 50/50 tickets (an additional fundraising effort) and announcing the total amount of the fundraising The proceeds from this fundraiser will go toward a Christmas shopping spree at the Henderson Walmart that pairs local law enforcement officers and other public safety personnel with disadvantaged youth for a special holiday experience.

The goal is to be able to give at least $7,000 for the shopping spree, Wilkerson said. The fundraiser also supports other member programs during the year.

KVA Marks 50 Years Of Accreditation With Latest External Review

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Kerr-Vance Academy Head of School Matthew McLaughlin has announced that the school has achieved 50 years of accreditation from Cognia, a nonprofit improvement organization that provides quality assurance for schools, school districts, and education service providers.

“It is an honor and a privilege to stand with Kerr-Vance Academy today as we reach this milestone,” McLaughlin stated in a letter to KVA parents.  “Accreditation as conferred by the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission provides a nationally recognized mark of quality and sustained excellence for our school. Being able to maintain this distinction for 50 years demonstrates our commitment to excellence, our willingness to enact meaningful change based on evaluation and feedback, and our desire to be the best we can be on behalf of the students we serve.”

KVA Board of Trustees President Robert Bowen – who also is a KVA alumnus and a KVA parent – reflected on a half-century of accreditation.

“We are reminded of the dedication and commitment that have brought us here. This achievement reflects our unwavering focus on providing an exceptional education for our students, ensuring that they are prepared to thrive in the world. On behalf of the KVA Board of Trustees, we are proud of the hard work of our educators, students and the community, and we look forward to continuing this legacy of excellence for many years to come.”

Throughout its more than 125 years of service, Cognia has recognized schools across the globe that meet rigorous standards focused on productive learning environments, equitable resource reallocation, and effective leadership. To receive Cognia Accreditation, a school must submit to an external review. Earning accreditation from the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission is a recognition that the school meets Cognia Performance Standards and maintains a commitment to continuous improvement. Schools in good standing can maintain their accreditation for a six-year term.

Dr. Mark A. Elgart, president and CEO of Cognia, stated, “Cognia Accreditation is a rigorous process that focuses the entire school and its community on the primary goal of ensuring that all students can flourish in engaging and equitable school environments. Kerr-Vance Academy has continually met high standards and made progress on key indicators that impact student learning. Maintaining their accredited status for half of a century can only be achieved with a steadfast commitment to high quality education and continuous improvement.”

Cognia is the parent organization of the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA CASI), Northwest Accreditation Commission (NWAC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI). Parents and interested community members can learn more about Cognia Accreditation at https://www.cognia.org/.

Visit https://www.kerrvance.com/  to learn more.

Maria Parham Health To Hold Annual ‘Trunk Or Treat’ Oct. 28

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Maria Parham Health will host its 4th annual drive-thru Trunk or Treat event on Monday, Oct. 28, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., providing a safe and festive way for families to celebrate Halloween.

The drive-thru Trunk or Treat allows children to remain in their cars as they enjoy the sights and sounds of Halloween, said Donna Young, MPH public information officer.

Costumed volunteers will pass out candy through open car windows to create a unique and safe trick-or-treating experience. “We started our Drive-Thru Trunk or Treat in October of 2021, in an effort to give children a safe way to trick or treat during the  COVID outbreak. The community really enjoyed doing it this way, so it stuck,” Young explained.

Families from the Henderson and Vance County communities are encouraged to bring their little ghosts and goblins for an evening filled with elaborately decorated trunks, festive costumes, and, of course, plenty of candy!

Details about the drive-thru route will be announced about a week before the event, so be sure to keep an eye on the MPH Facebook page for the latest updates.

NC Dept of Agriculture

Grant Funding Available To Preserve Farmland Through Agricultural Easements

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Landowners interested in preserving farmland through agricultural conservation easements can apply for grants through a state trust fund. The application period is open now and ends Jan. 17, 2025.

County governments and conservation nonprofit groups can apply for farmland preservation grants from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund; property owners work with county governments or land trusts to apply for the funding, according to information from the office of N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.

“A growing population and increased development continue to put pressure on family farms,” Troxler stated. “Agricultural conservation easements are the best tool to preserve farmland. I encourage farmers and landowners across the state to work with local partners and apply for grant funding to become North Carolina Forever Farms.”

Grants are available for agricultural conservation easements on working farms and forests; to support public-private enterprise programs that promote profitable and sustainable agricultural, horticultural and forestland activities; to develop agricultural plans; and to create Agricultural Growth Zones that enhance local investments in farmland preservation.

If awarded a grant in which the application requests funds for the conservation easement purchase value, landowners will be compensated for the purchase of the development rights.

During the most recent grant cycle, the N.C. ADFP Trust Fund awarded $18.2 million to protect working farms and forests, support county farmland preservation efforts and promote agricultural enterprises.

Agricultural conservation easements not funded in the previous grant cycle are encouraged to reapply for funding. Reapplications must notify the Farmland Preservation Division via online form.

A new online grant portal will be used for Cycle 18 applications. Grant applications, rules and information packets are available online at https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/farmland-preservation/applicants. For more information, call the Farmland Preservation office at 919.707.3074.

VCS Announces October Student Spotlight Honorees

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From VCS Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin

Vance County Schools has recognized four students from across the district in its October Student Spotlight. These students were selected not just because of their academic achievements, but also because they embody qualities like kindness, dedication, a commitment to personal growth and service to others.

This month’s winners are Lucas Tyburski from STEM Early High, Fatima Ramirez Ramirez of Vance Virtual Village Academy, Rihanna Williams of Vance County High and Damira Williams from Advance Academy. Read more below about their accomplishments, dreams and role models.

Lucas Tyburski, 8th Grader

Lucas was nominated by his teachers and school administration. He exemplifies the qualities of a true STEM shark – someone who cares for his school, his peers and his community.

Lucas recently took the initiative to organize a donation drive for those affected by Hurricane Helene. He also serves as co-president of the SAVE Club (Students Against Violence Everywhere) at STEM, participates in RoboVance and is an anchor on the school’s news team. These contributions highlight his drive to create a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom. Lucas’s favorite subject, Social Studies, allows him to explore various cultures, geography and history.

His dream is becoming a sports commentator, covering games like baseball, basketball, hockey and football—fueled by his love of sports and experience as a catcher on his baseball team. A natural-born leader, Lucas admires the versatility and determination of pro baseball phenom Shohei Ohtani, and he hopes to inspire others through his involvement in school and community initiatives.

Lucas enjoys reading, and his favorite book being Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

When asked what advice he would give to other students, Lucas emphasized the importance of being open to new opportunities—wisdom he has gained through his own personal growth over the years. Most recently, he has enjoyed studying estuaries in science class, where he discovered that bears inhabit Pamlico Sound—just one example of his curiosity and love for learning.

If he could have any superpower, Lucas says he would want to make people kind and friendly, believing that spreading positivity is essential for moving forward in life.

 Lucas’s academic journey is driven by the encouragement and support of his teachers, who continue to motivate him daily. As a standout student and a shining example of what it means to be a STEM Shark, Lucas Tyburski’s passion, leadership and dedication make him a true asset to STEM Early High School and the greater Vance County community.

Fatima Ramirez Ramirez, 12th grader

Vance Virtual Village Academy is proud to highlight the achievements of Fatima Ramirez Ramirez, a senior whose hard work, positivity and academic success make her a standout student. Nominated by her English Language Arts teacher, Cynthia Schlessinger, Fatima’s

commitment to excellence serves as an inspiration to both students and staff.

In addition to her V3A courses, Fatima is enrolled in Vance-Granville Community College classes, where she is working toward an associate’s degree.

Her academic drive is matched by her involvement in extracurricular activities, including her membership in the Beta Club and her volunteer work at the VGCC daycare. Fatima’s teacher, Penny Britt, commends her for her positivity, noting that “Fatima’s courteous demeanor makes every conversation enjoyable. Her work is always accurate and delivered on time, reflecting her dedication and attention to detail.”

As a student who has exceptional participation in class, attends all in-person learning events, excels in her coursework and engages in extra-curricular activities, Fatima is a true leader within V3A.

When asked about her favorite subjects, Fatima expressed a particular interest in history, explaining that she enjoys learning about the stories of the world’s past. She also enjoys creating sculptures out of clay and dreams of one day pursuing a career in archaeology and anthropology, where she can travel the world and explore the rich history of different cultures. Fatima’s role model is Hypatia of Alexandria, a renowned teacher and philosopher from ancient Egypt. Fatima admires Hypatia’s bravery and intelligence, stating, “She was a woman too advanced for her time – she stood up for women.” Fatima’s own resilience and determination are evident in her goals for the future, which include helping those in need by addressing issues such as homelessness and food insecurity.

When reflecting on her journey at V3A, Fatima shared that her favorite aspect of the school is the supportive teachers, adding she has found true success since enrolling at the school two years ago. She believes her past experiences motivate her to work hard and achieve her dreams, saying, “I want to be successful and support myself and my family in the future.” Fatima’s advice to other students is to “be yourself and if no one believes in you, you have to believe in yourself. The sky is not the limit; you can go beyond that.” Fatima’s dedication to her education, passion for learning, and commitment to making a positive impact in the world make her a remarkable student and a role model for her peers.

Rihanna Williams, 12th grader

Senior Rihanna Williams School already has her sights set on what’s after high school – and VCHS administration shared, “Rihanna’s commitment to her academics and future plans sets her apart as a role model for her peers. Rihanna has already been accepted to N.C. Central University, where she plans to pursue her dream of becoming a traveling nurse.” In addition to her academic pursuits, Rihanna is an active participant in the school’s Chorus, a passion she has nurtured since she was a freshman under the guidance of Dr. Kowind Stokes.

Rihanna’s academic ambitions and desire to make a difference in the healthcare field reflect her dedication to personal growth and service to others. She is well-known among her peers for her positive attitude and constant support. She shared that her favorite thing about Vance County High School is the support she receives from administration and teachers, noting, “They care and want me to be successful.” When asked about her inspirations, Rihanna named her mother, Alethea Williams, as her greatest role model. “She has been with me through a lot and pushes me to stay focused,” Rihanna explained. Her mom’s influence has shaped her into the resilient and driven young woman she is today.

Rihanna also shared her vision for making a difference in her community. If given the opportunity, she would work to end violence and encourage greater collaboration among community members to create a safer, more supportive environment.

Rihanna’s favorite movie is Transformers and she dreams of traveling to Bora Bora. If she could possess any superpower, she would choose invisibility to help others without fanfare. Her advice to fellow students is simple yet powerful: “Stay focused in school and don’t follow in the wrong ways. “Rihanna Williams is a shining example of the values and excellence that define the students of Vance County High School.

Damira Williams, 7th grader

AdVance Academy is excited to shine the spotlight on Damira S. Williams, a 7th-grade student nominated by her teachers. Damira is a member of the SAVE Club (Students Against Violence Everywhere), where she consistently demonstrates her commitment to helping others and making a positive impact. She is passionate about creating change and strives to support those around her.

Damira’s favorite subject is Math because of her love for calculating and problem-solving. She is still exploring her career goals but is determined to be successful, setting high standards for herself and continuously pushing forward.

Outside the classroom, Damira enjoys dancing and listening to a variety of music genres. Her favorite movie is Scream and she enjoys spending time with her family. Damira admires her sister, Jada, for her accomplishments and the strong bond they share, as well as her mother for being a source of strength and support.

Damira enthusiastically shared her fascination with science terminology and gaining knowledge to become successful. If she could have any superpower, Damira says she would choose the ability to teleport, allowing her to travel anywhere instantly—an exciting prospect for someone who dreams of visiting Paris and seeing the Eiffel Tower.

Damira’s motivation comes from within, and she consistently works toward achieving her goals. Her advice to fellow students is to “Keep pushing, don’t be a follower but be a leader. Listen to those giving you advice and stay focused.” As a student at AdVance Academy, Damira values the opportunities available to her and feels that the school truly cares about its students. She is grateful for the supportive environment and the encouragement she receives from her teachers and peers. Looking ahead, one of her wishes is to see a reduction in violence, particularly in her hometown of Henderson, believing that creating a safer community would make a significant difference. AdVance Academy is proud to recognize Damira Williams as a student who exemplifies the school’s values of excellence.

Congratulations to October’s Student Spotlight winners!

Vance County Gains Retirement Community Designation; Official Ceremony Oct. 22 At 1 PM

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Relax. Relate. Retire.

Sounds pretty nice, right?

Vance County receives its official designation as a “Retirement Community” at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 22 in a ceremony at Satterwhite Point Community Building, 20 Shoreline Lane at Kerr Lake.

This designation has been in the works for a while, and Vance County Tourism’s Pam Hester said next week’s event will put an exclamation mark on what locals have known for a long time – that Vance County is conveniently located to bigger cities while offering local amenities, recreation and activities that retirees are looking for.

Local legislators Rep. Frank Sossamon and N.C. Sen. Lisa Barnes are scheduled to speak and Andre Nabors with Visit NC and Christopher Chung, CEO of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina will present the certificate to local tourism and county leaders.

To be considered for a CRC designation, applicants must complete a comprehensive evaluation process with requirements outlined by the N.C. General Assembly. Certification means that they are recognized for providing the amenities, services and opportunities retirees need to enjoy active and productive lives.

Early In-Person Voting Begins Thursday, Oct. 17

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Early in-person voting begins this Thursday, Oct. 17 in North Carolina. Vance County Board of Elections Director Haley Rawles reviews some basic information for voters who wish to cast their ballots before the Nov. 5 Election Day.

There are two polling sites in Vance County for the early in-person voting — Aycock Recreational Complex, 305 Carey Chapel Rd. and the former Eaton Johnson gym, 500 N. Beckford Dr.

Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote, but all voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. Voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id.

Early voting continues on weekdays through Nov. 1. Both in-person polling sites will be open from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The final day of early voting is Saturday, Nov. 2 and the polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on that day.

Absentee ballots must be requested by 5 p.m. on Oct. 29. A voter can fill out an absentee ballot request at votebymail.ncsbe.gov or may complete a request form provided by the board of elections.

Although the voter registration deadline has passed, eligible individuals who did not register by the Oct. 11 deadline may register and vote at either early voting site during the early voting period. New registrants will be required to provide documentation of their residence.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, contact the Vance County Board of Elections Office at 252.492.3730.

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