Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

Kerr Tar Regional Council of Governments

Kerr-Tar Regional COG to Offer Eligible Residents Emergency Home Repairs

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-Press Release, Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments

The Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments (COG) has been awarded $200,000 by the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) under the 2019 cycle of the Urgent Repair Program to assist residents in the counties of Franklin, Granville, Person, Vance and Warren.

The Urgent Repair program finances emergency home repairs for homeowners who are elderly or have special needs and whose incomes are below 50% of the median for the area. Only repairs that address imminent threats to the life and/or safety of occupants of the dwelling unit or accessibility modifications will be performed under the program. A total of 18 households are projected to be assisted.

In the Urgent Repair Program, one or two critical problems may be repaired, but the entire house is not addressed. Examples of work typically done under this program include roof or HVAC system repair, well or septic system repairs, adding accessibility features like ramps, bathroom grab bars and wider doors.

The COG will provide assistance to those whose homes are selected for repairs in the form of a loan. Homeowners will receive an unsecured deferred, interest-free loan, forgiven at a rate of $2,000 per year until the principal balance is reduced to zero. The maximum amount of the loan available is $10,000.

Applications are available starting September 2, 2019, and must be returned to the COG office by 5 p.m. on November 1, 2019. Clients to be assisted will be selected by January 1, 2020.

The application and program information are available on the Kerr-Tar Regional COG website at www.kerrtarcog.org or by calling 252-436-2040.

The funds provided by the NCHFA for the Urgent Repair Program come from the North Carolina Housing Trust Fund.

Attention Ladies: Miss NC to Speak at Fall WOVEN Session

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-Information courtesy the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce

The Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce and the VGCC Small Business Center welcomes Miss North Carolina, Alexandra Badgett to speak at the WOVEN (Women of Vance Empowered Networking) lunch and learn on Tuesday, October 15, 2019, at the Henderson Country Club.

The event will be held from 12 until 1:30 p.m. and will serve as the H-V Chamber’s last WOVEN session for 2019.

The cost is $20 and registration is required by October 11. You do not have to be a Chamber member to attend.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Sandra Wilkerson at sandra@hendersonvance.org or call (252) 438-8414.

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Town Talk 08/29/19: Medicaid Deadline Approaches, DSS Adds Evening Info. Session

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-Information courtesy WIZS’ Town Talk and a Vance County DSS press release

An evening informational event has been scheduled through the Vance County Department of Social Services to guide local Medicaid recipients through the process of selecting a health plan and primary care provider. The evening session will be held at Vance County Department of Social Services and is scheduled for:

  • September 10, 2019: 6 -8 p.m. Vance County Department Social Services, 350 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC

It is recommended that recipients who are senior citizens bring a trusted family member or friend to assist in the selection process.

If unable to attend this event, an outreach specialist is available for assistance at the Vance County Department of Social Services, 350 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Assistance will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Vance County is in the first phase of the Medicaid Transformation, with recipients to be enrolled by a September 13 deadline. Changes to Medicaid requirements will take effect on November 1, 2019.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services notes that there are several health plans Medicaid recipients can choose from.

For a list of doctors for each health plan, or to enroll, visit ncmedicaidplans.gov, use the NC Medicaid Managed Care mobile app or call 1-833-870-5500. A language line is also available.

For eligibility information or for questions about Medicaid’s new requirements, contact Cathy Hope, 252-492-5001 x 3221, Shelonda Boyd, 252-492-5001 x 3266, Shalonda Daye, 252-492-5001 x 3204, Vance County Department of Social Services, at 252-492-5001.

To hear more on Medicaid changes and requirements, 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.

VGCC Honors Faculty and Staff Members of the Year

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

At Vance-Granville Community College’s recent fall convocation, college President Dr. Rachel Desmarais announced awards to a pair of outstanding employees for the 2019-20 year.

Tammy Ball, an instructor for Office Administration and Medical Office Administration and Online Retention Specialist, was named Faculty Member of the Year, while Jennifer “Jenny” Luffman, Accounts Receivable and Third Party Billing Coordinator for the VGCC Business Office, was selected as the Staff Member of the Year.

The honors are two of VGCC’s three Glen Raven Excellence in Teaching and Leadership Awards. Glen Raven, Inc., the custom fabrics manufacturer with a facility in Warren County, is a longtime partner and supporter of the college. In addition to sponsoring the annual stipends to recognize excellence among VGCC instructors and staff members, Glen Raven has endowed several scholarships for students.

Ball and Luffman are now eligible to be considered for the N.C. Community College System’s statewide R.J. Reynolds Excellence in Teaching and BB&T Staff Person of the Year awards, respectively.

“This year, Vance-Granville Community College celebrates 50 years of excellence, which would not have been possible without outstanding faculty and staff members like Jenny and Tammy,” said Dr. Desmarais. “The fact that both are not only dedicated members of our team but also VGCC alumni is a testament to the quality education they received here, as well as the community atmosphere that this institution has maintained.”

Tammy Ball

A Youngsville resident, Ball has been teaching at VGCC for the past six-and-a-half years but first developed a great passion for the college over 20 years ago, when she was a student. “I came to VGCC to study in the college transfer program,” Ball recalled. “After graduation, I looked to the college for classes to support my career in healthcare, and when I finally did decide to transfer, returned to VGCC once again to take business and accounting classes to take with me to the university.”

Tammy Ball (left) accepts the Faculty Member of the Year award from Dr. Rachel Desmarais, president of VGCC. (VGCC photo)

After working as a medical records manager and clinical secretary at a retirement community, Ball completed a bachelor’s degree in business administration at N.C. State University. She then worked full-time at the university for several years, primarily in the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Since joining VGCC, Ball has taught not only curriculum but continuing education courses, many of which she also developed, and has advised many on-campus and online students. She was lead advisor for the Office Administration Club for three years and has served on a variety of college committees.

“I’ve seen first-hand how the college can help our community through workforce training and transferable courses,” Ball said. “I love each day at VGCC where I can give back and help my own community learn and grow!”

Jennifer Luffman

Luffman, a resident of Bullock, said that she set a goal of one day working at VGCC while she was a student at the college, earning associate degrees in Accounting and Business Administration. “The staff and faculty were always energetic and helpful, and I could tell they loved their jobs,” Luffman recalled.

Dr. Rachel Desmarais (left), president of VGCC, presents the Staff member of the Year award to Jennifer Luffman. (VGCC photo)

She first went to work in the medical billing field for a neurologist, but two years after graduating from the community college, she was hired as a cashier at VGCC’s Main Campus. That was 14 years ago.

“I held the cashier position for a couple of years, and then I became a Lead Accounting Technician,” Luffman said. “Currently, I am the Accounts Receivable and Third Party Billing Coordinator. VGCC has helped me to grow professionally.”

She has also served as chair of the VGCC Scholarship Committee, on various N.C. Community College System task forces, and as president of the Vance County Association of Educational Office Professionals.

Luffman added, “I love VGCC and I love working with the staff and faculty, but most importantly, I love helping our students.”

Town Talk 08/28/19: Community Events Show Law Enforcement in ‘Different Light’

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Sgt. Marti Stewart, with the Henderson Police Department, was on Wednesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk to discuss local law enforcement’s participation in the annual “Cops on Top” fundraiser as well as Vance County’s observance of the National Night Out Against Crime.

Stewart said these and other such community events allow the public to see law enforcement outside of their traditional roles. “These events let people see us in a different light. We, in turn, get to meet people and participate in community events.”

Cops on Top

Chick-fil-A of Henderson, the Henderson Police Department, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office, WIZS 1450AM/100.1 FM and other community organizations will once again team up for the annual “Cops on Top” fundraiser for the Special Olympics of NC.

The event will be held at Chick-fil-A of Henderson on Thursday, September 5, 2019, from 6 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Officers and deputies will be collecting donations at the restaurant’s drive-through and side entrances. Money raised will cover the expenses Vance County athletes incur while participating in the Special Olympics.

“Look into your console, look into your dash where you throw change after paying for something. We’d appreciate it if you drop that spare change in the bucket for us,” said Stewart.

The event will also provide entertainment for families including a bouncy house in the Chick-fil-A parking lot and face painting courtesy BoHo the Clown with Character Antics.

Kids are sure to enjoy guest appearances by Henderson Fire Department’s Sparky the Fire Dog and the Chick-fil-A cow, along with a special guest appearance by Muddy the Mudcat from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m.

Stewart reiterated that all money raised goes directly to Special Olympics of NC and not law enforcement departments.

Night Out Against Crime

Vance County’s Annual Night Out Against Crime will be held Tuesday, October 1, 2019, from 5 until 8 p.m. in front of the Henderson Police Department on Breckenridge Street. In case of rain, the event will be held Tuesday, October 8.

Stewart encouraged the community to bring the family out for presentations and displays by the Henderson Police Department, Vance County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson-Vance Crime Stoppers, Henderson Fire Department, Vance County Fire and EMS, NC State Highway Patrol, Vance County Schools and many other agencies and organizations.

Bleachers will be set up for participants to enjoy performances by the Badd Boyz and Lady Badd Boyz Social Club of Henderson, line dancers, Ballet Arts Dance Studio, Midnight Blue Martial Arts, Vance County High School’s JV cheerleaders and South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church’s gospel group.

Free hotdogs will be served and bouncy houses and activities for children will be available.

To hear Stewart’s 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.

Aycock Rec. Center to Offer Fall Water Aerobics Classes

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-Information courtesy Tara Goolsby, Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Facilities Supervisor, Aycock Recreation Center

The Aycock Recreation Center will offer fall water aerobics classes for both swimmers and non-swimmers alike beginning September 3 and ending December 13, 2019. Classes will not be held October 17, 21-25; November 11, 28-29.

Classes will combine low and high impact exercises with a focus on strength building, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and having fun!

Classes will be offered Monday – Wednesday – Friday from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.; Tuesday & Thursday from 7:15 to 8 p.m.

Cost is $1 for members and $2 for non-members.

Contact:

Lauren Newlin, Aquatics Program Supervisor

lnewlin@ci.henderson.nc.us ~ (252) 438-3160

https://ci.henderson.nc.us/departments/recreation-and-parks/

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Vance County to Hold Evening Informational Session on Medicaid Changes

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-Press Release, Vance County Department of Social Services

Changes to Medicaid requirements will take effect on November 1, 2019. While most recipients will see no changes to the services they have been receiving, enrollment through a health plan will be required.

A health plan – through Medicaid – is a group of doctors, hospitals and other providers that will work together to provide healthcare to meet collective needs. The goal is for every medical service – physical health, mental health and medicine – to come through the same healthcare plan. A primary care provider (PCP) should also be selected to assist with health care needs, which could be in the form of a family doctor, clinic or other health care provider.

Vance County is in the first phase of the Medicaid Transformation, with recipients to be enrolled by a September 13 deadline.

Recipients who already have a primary care provider may keep the one they have or choose a new one. If a PCP or health plan is not selected before September 13, the Vance County Department of Social Services offers a reminder that one will be chosen for you; however, depending on the type of health services needed, a small number of recipients will be able to continue enrollment through NC Medicaid Direct.

An evening informational event has been scheduled through the Vance County Department of Social Services to guide local Medicaid recipients through the process of selecting a health plan and primary care provider. The evening session will be held at Vance County Department of Social Services and is scheduled for:

  • September 10, 2019: 6 -8 p.m. Vance County Department Social Services, 350 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC

It is recommended that recipients who are senior citizens bring a trusted family member or friend to assist in the selection process.

If unable to attend this event, an outreach specialist is available for assistance at the Vance County Department of Social Services, 350 Ruin Creek Rd, Henderson, NC from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Assistance will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services notes that there are several health plans Medicaid recipients can choose from.

For a list of doctors for each health plan, or to enroll, visit ncmedicaidplans.gov, use the NC Medicaid Managed Care mobile app or call 1-833-870-5500. A language line is also available.

For eligibility information or for questions about Medicaid’s new requirements, contact Cathy Hope, 252-492-5001 x 3221, Shelonda Boyd, 252-492-5001 x 3266, Shalonda Daye, 252-492-5001 x 3204, Vance County Department of Social Services, at 252-492-5001.

Registration Underway for Annual Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament

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-Information courtesy the Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce

Join the Henderson-Vance County Chamber of Commerce and presenting sponsor BB&T at Kerr Lake Country Club for the 21st Annual Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament. This Super Ball Tournament is one of the Chamber’s largest fundraising events for the year.

Date: Thursday, October 3, 2019

Time: Registration – 11:45 a.m.; Lunch – 12:15 p.m., Welcome/Rules – 12:45 p.m.; Golf Begins – 1 p.m.

Tournament Entry Fee: $120/Golfer, $440/Foursome. Sponsorships are available.

Tournament fee includes Cart & Green Fees · Mulligan · Goody Bag · Lunch · Beverages and Snacks on the Course · Awards Ceremony.

Awards for First, Second and Third Place teams will be given. Skills Contests: Hole-in-One, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. We will have the ChipOBoard and a Putting Contest as well.

For more information, please contact Sandra Wilkerson at (252) 438-8414 or sandra@hendersonvance.org.

Town Talk 08/26/19: VGCC’s Continuing Education Provides Skilled Local Workforce

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100.1 FM / 1450 AM WIZS; Local News broadcasts M-F 8am, 12pm, 5pm

Dawn Michelle Tucker, Dean of Adult Basic Skills and Continuing Education at Vance-Granville Community College, was the guest of honor on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk.

Celebrating 50 years of serving and educating the community, Tucker said the college continues to excel because it adapts to the changing needs of both residents and employers alike.

Dawn Michelle Tucker, Dean of Adult Basic Skills and Continuing Education at Vance-Granville Community College, was the guest of honor on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk. Celebrating 50 years of serving and educating the community, Tucker said the college continues to excel because it adapts to the changing needs of both residents and employers alike. (WIZS photo)

“While there are careers that require a two-year or four-year degree, there are also careers that require a specific skillset or certifications,” said Tucker. “VGCC’s Continuing Education Department works to quickly ascertain the needs of the workforce and then builds a skilled workforce for the employers.”

In fact, Tucker said VGCC President Dr. Rachel Desmarais has been committed to providing an educated workforce to meet the current and future needs of local employers since taking the helm in January.

“One of Dr. Desmarais’ visions is that we meet the needs of our workforce in a short-term, workforce development kind of way,” said Tucker.

On the Adult Basic Skills side of the house, Tucker said the majority of jobs now have a minimum requirement of an Adult High School Diploma or High School Equivalency (GED).

“When you complete an Adult High School Diploma or receive your High School Equivalency, you are laying the groundwork to an employer that you are capable of completing a basic level of education. They know if you complete a high school credential then you have a certain level of academic skill,” explained Tucker.

Offering programs primarily to adult learners 18 years and older, VGCC provides High School Equivalency classes free of charge at all four campus locations. Daytime and evening classes are available.

Other programs and areas that fall under the Con. Ed. umbrella include Fire and Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement Training, Occupational Extension, Occupational Healthcare, Personal Enrichment and VGCC’s Small Business Center.

For more information on VGCC’s Continuing Education division or to register, please visit www.vgcc.edu/coned, register in person at any campus location, or call (252) 738-3324/(252) 738-3345.

To hear Tucker’s 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.

Address Canvassing Begins for 2020 U.S. Census

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-Information courtesy Granville County Government

Every ten years, America comes together to count all the residents and households in the country, providing the basis for reapportioning congressional seats, redistricting and distributing federal funds that support vital programs in communities, counties, states and across the nation.

Census results impact housing, education, transportation, employment, health care and public policy. Your community benefits the most when the census counts everyone.

Address canvassing for the 2020 Census has begun, with representatives of the U.S. Census Bureau in the field to update and verify local addresses.

These address listers may be knocking on doors across the area and asking a few simple questions to confirm the address and to request information regarding additional living quarters on the property.

For identification purposes, badges and briefcases will be visible indicating affiliation with the Census Bureau.

This operation is one of several activities the Census Bureau conducts for an accurate and complete count and will continue through mid-October as the 2020 Census prepares to officially start counting people in March 2020.

For more details, visit the Census Bureau website a https://www.census.gov/.