Tag Archive for: #wizsnews

TownTalk: VGCC Foundation Celebrates 50 Years

/by

– Information courtesy of Vance-Granville Community College

For the past 50 years, the Vance-Granville Community College Foundation has been helping students with scholarships and other financial means. In doing so, it also has strengthened communities and has opened doors of opportunity across the VGCC four-county service region.

Established in 1976 as the College’s Endowment Fund, The VGCC Foundation has played a vital role in helping students overcome financial barriers and achieve their educational goals. Over five decades, The Foundation has expanded its impact well beyond scholarships to include emergency assistance, student success initiatives, program support, and strategic investments that enhance learning environments.

“This anniversary is more than a celebration of our history; it’s a celebration of our students and the lives they go on to change,” said Tanya Weary, executive director of The VGCC Foundation. “For 50 years, The Foundation has been committed to meeting students where they are and providing the support they need to succeed. Every gift, every partnership, and every opportunity has helped change lives—one student at a time.”

In an undated photo, former VGCC president Dr. Ben Currin (1981-1998) and longtime trustee Donald C. Seifert Sr. accept a donation on behalf of the College’s Endowment Fund, now known as The VGCC Foundation.

As part of its 50th anniversary year, The VGCC Foundation is also focused on the future. The Foundation is actively raising funds to support two new buildings: the Center for Advanced Manufacturing & Applied Technology in Granville County and the Transportation Training & Technology Center in Warren County. Both are critical projects that will expand instructional space, modernize learning environments, and better serve students and the region’s workforce needs.

“These new facilities represent an investment in our students, our faculty, and the future of our communities,” Sheri Jones, VGCCF associate director noted. “The support we receive today will help us continue building futures, empowering students, and strengthening communities.”

Throughout the year, The Foundation will highlight its legacy, recognize supporters, and share stories of impact while continuing its mission to empower students and strengthen the communities Vance-Granville Community College serves.

For more information about The VGCC Foundation, its 50th anniversary initiatives, or opportunities to support the new building projects, visit www.vgcc.edu/foundation, email foundation@vgcc.edu, or call 252.738.326

CLICK PLAY!

TownTalk: Kerr Lake RWS Plant Getting Upgrades

/by

Henderson Assistant City Manager Christy Lipscomb’s report to the City Council about progress being made at the regional water treatment facility included information about subterranean placement of valve and piping, installation of new equipment to create dry sludge and dynamite.

Yep, they’ve been blowing up stuff out there.

“We had to use some dynamite in some areas,” Lipscomb said. There’s a lot of rock underneath the soil here in Vance County, and it’s not soft rock. It’s granite.

There were three different “events” to blast the rock so the underground work could continue.

“It was kinda cool to see,” Lipscomb said, explaining to the council that it wasn’t a big explosion at all.

They put the chargers in “and everything went ‘poof’ and that was it.”

There’s still a massive pile of dirt and granite as a result, but it all was necessary for the upgrades to continue.

A tentative completion date is October, and so far, the project is right on track.

Council members referred to a packet of information to see images of the construction project, which includes a building addition that doubles the length of the existing building.

When complete, the new building will provide new restrooms, locker rooms and a conference room.

“That was one of the big deals, one of the things we absolutely wanted,” Lipscomb said of the conference room.  It will be used to host classes and continuing education training for employees.

There is some new equipment that employees will need to get training in, including a couple o  chemical pumps that have been installed.

Each holds 10 million gallons and is part of a “super pulsator” process. It’s not a complicated process, she said, but it will create a more efficient process that keeps the sludge from settling to the bottom of the tank.

There’s a new rollup door that will make it easier to remove pumps when they need maintenance and facilitate brining in equipment.

There are two new clear wells in place to help the aging well that was installed in 1974.

That one will stay on line along with the other two until a future upgrade to replace its sagging concrete top can begin.

“There’s a lot of concrete and a lot of piping,” Lipscomb said.

The new sludge handling facility is about halfway completed, but when it’s all on line, the treatment facility will be able to dry the sludge and either haul it off – the local landfill doesn’t accept it – or “land apply” it.

Land application is the more cost-effective approach since the closest facility that accepts the material is in Person County.

CLICK PLAY!

Home and Garden Show

/by

On the Home and Garden Show with Vance Co. Cooperative Ext.

  • The Beginner Bee School will be on Saturday, February 28th starting at 9am at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.
  • There will be a Cut Flower Production on Monday, March 2nd at 6:30pm at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market.
  • If you haven’t fertilized your tall fescue lawn this year  apply fertilizer  according to your soil sample recommendation. Remember to use a slow release, turf grade fertilizer.
  • Sow tall fescue through early March if you can irrigate your lawn, if unable to irrigate, wait till September to reseed your lawn.
  • Begin pruning your fruit trees and grape vines, cooperative extension has pruning guides.
  • Have a thermometer in your greenhouse, when outside temps reach 70 degrees F you need to provide ventilation in your greenhouse or cold frame if you have plants in them.
  • If you want good pollination for vegetables, order a beehive now or contact a beekeeper to locate hives near your garden.
  • Now is the time to look at large trees that may be damaged or show signs of disease. If you have trees like this you need to contact a certified arborist.
  • Apply a broadleaf herbicide to your lawn if needed. Apply according to label directions.
  • Clean planting trays with 1 part bleach to 10 part water solution before adding planting mix to trays.
  • Check your lawn equipment and have your lawnmower serviced.
  • Remember to use the proper personal protective equipment when doing winter chores.
  • Check houseplants dust weekly with a soft cloth.
  • Check storage areas for mice.

The Vance County Cooperative Extension Building is located at 305 Young St, Henderson, NC 27536

The Vance County Regional Farmers Market is located at 210 Southpark Dr., Henderson, NC 27536

Click Play!

Cooperative Extension with Michael Ellington: Thinking About Your Summer Garden Now

/by

Michael Ellington, on the Vance County Cooperative Extension Report:

Today’s segment advises patience as the warmer weather gets people thinking about their summer garden.

Listen live at 100.1 FM / 1450 AM / or on the live stream at WIZS.com at 11:50 a.m. Mon, Tues & Thurs.

Click Play!

WIZS Election Coverage: Candidates In Vance County Commissioner District 4 Contest

/by

Editor’s Note: WIZS contacted the candidates for the District 4 seat on the Vance County Board of Commissioners 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 Dan Brummitt faces challenger Kelley Wade Perdue. Early voting began Feb. 12 and continues through Feb. 28.

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

*********

Responses from Dan Brummitt

 Why are you running for Vance County Board of Commissioners District 04?

I am passionate about making Vance County a better place. I grew up here and have committed a huge part of my life to making the county better.

What’s your platform?

I was elected county commissioner to District 4 in 2006. My passions are government efficiency, proper development of our youth, and protection of the elderly.

Government efficiency keeps money in the hands of the citizens. Development of our youth includes educating parents and providing resources to our youth so they can properly develop. This includes education, protection and exposure to community support. The elderly need to be protected from abuse, and keep taxes low so they can maintain the properties they own.

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

years? Five years?

Economic development is key to our success and our future. Fifty-seven percent of the population in Vance County receives Medicaid benefits. We must reverse that trend. We must look at regionalization in order to survive and prosper. This includes regionalization of utilities and services.

Education is the key to the future. We must stop competing at the public/private level and work together for the betterment of Vance County. We must use the resources of Vance-Granville Community College for career development opportunities and training.

We must also engage our communities to come together to work as “a village” to insure development of our youth. This includes churches and other resources.

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

I currently serve on several boards in the community and at the state level. DSS Board, Vaya Board, Economic Development Commission, Research Triangle Regional Partnership, Triangle North Regional Partnership and other committees offer us opportunities to come together to better serve the citizens of our county.

What’s your experience in the public sector? What’s your resume for being a commissioner?

I have history in banking, lending, real estate and construction. I have been a commissioner since 2006 and have served on many task forces and state committees and boards. I continue to serve on numerous local and regional boards. I am well attuned to the budget and waste that exists in our government.

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

I am invested heavily in mental health for our citizens. We are beginning construction of a regional behavioral health urgent care (BHUC) in Vance County. This will enable citizens access to immediate care as needed. It will also free up law enforcement from the time it takes to monitor citizens in the Emergency Department.

We continue to expand our water system throughout the county. This enables growth in corridors for the future.

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

I remain committed to seeing Vance County move forward in a positive direction. We must have vision to change the past and move forward. We can not keep doing what we are doing and expect positive change. I want to be a part of that positive change.

People in general and media outlets sometimes look at a collective elected body or what an entity like Vance County is doing as a whole. Rather than that, what are some specific items or issues you see or would like to prioritize for District 4?

While we are elected by district, we serve all of the citizens of Vance County. District 4 sits along the southern portion of Hwy 1 and also 158 Business. These areas should have growth pressure before other areas. We want to make sure this growth is orderly and benefits our citizens.

*********

Responses from Kelley Wade Perdue

Why are you running for Vance County Board of Commissioners District 04?

I am running because Vance County needs experienced, accountable leadership that understands budgets, compliance, oversight, and long-term planning. My professional career has been built around managing complex systems, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting financial resources. I believe those skills belong at the county level – where decisions directly affect taxpayers, families, and local services. District 4 deserves a commissioner who is prepared, detail-oriented, and willing to ask hard questions.

What’s your platform?

My platform is built on accountability, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and strategic growth:

  • Responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars
  • Strong oversight of county departments and contracts
  • Transparent decision-making and clear public communication
  • Support for public safety, infrastructure, and overall quality of life
  • Advocating for strong partnerships in education to ensure our schools are supported, fiscally responsible, and preparing students for workforce and career success
  • Long-term planning that balances growth with community values

I believe education is foundational to the long-term success of Vance County. When we invest wisely in our schools and workforce development initiatives, we strengthen our local economy, attract businesses, and create opportunity for the next generation – all while maintaining accountability in how public funds are used.

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

Next Two Years:

  1. Fiscal responsibility and budgeting discipline amid rising costs
  2. Infrastructure and system efficiency, including technology and service delivery
  3. Trust in local government, transparency, and accountability

Next Five Years:

  1. Sustainable economic development that supports jobs and local business
  2. Healthcare access and affordability, especially for seniors and working families
  3. Long-term infrastructure and operational modernization to avoid costly reactive fixes

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

I will approach county governance the same way I manage large-scale enterprise programs:

  • Review data before decisions are made
  • Ensure compliance with laws, policies, and financial controls
  • Ask questions when processes are unclear
  • Demand accountability for outcomes, not just intentions
  • Focus on preventive planning instead of crisis response

My experience managing regulated environments and multi-million-dollar initiatives gives me the discipline to lead responsibly.

What’s your experience in the public sector? What’s your resume for being a commissioner?

For over 18 years, I have worked in highly regulated environments that intersect directly with public policy, healthcare regulation, audits, and compliance. As a Technical Program Manager, I oversee budgets, vendor contracts, regulatory mandates, and executive-level reporting.

I have:

  • Managed complex budgets and financial controls
  • Ensured compliance with CMS and regulatory requirements
  • Led cross-functional teams through audits and system upgrades
  • Delivered cost savings through efficiency and process improvement
  • Presented to executive governance bodies

In addition, I served as an Intern in the U.S. Legislature, giving me direct exposure to public governance and policy processes. My education — including a candidate of Doctor of Business Administration, Master of Project Management, and Criminal Justice degree — further supports my readiness to serve.

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

As a first-time candidate, this does not apply. However, my professional career reflects how I would govern with measurable outcomes, accountability, and results.

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

I see myself as a working commissioner. Someone who prepares, studies issues in advance, and contributes meaningfully to policy discussions. I will bring a professional, analytical perspective to the board, focused on solutions rather than politics.

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

I want voters to know that I am not running for office to build a political career. I am running because I care deeply about this community and the people in it.

I am a strong advocate for animals, for responsible government, and for doing what is right even when it is hard. I believe how a community treats its most vulnerable; whether that’s children, seniors, or animals; speaks volumes about its values.

I come from a background of service, faith, and family. Like many families in Vance County, I understand the challenges of balancing work, caregiving, and community responsibility. I’ve walked through difficult seasons that required resilience, patience, and strength, and those experiences shaped how I lead — with empathy, preparation, and fairness.

Professionally, I have spent my career ensuring accountability, compliance, and fiscal responsibility in highly regulated environments. Personally, I have shown that when something isn’t right, I will speak up and follow the process the right way — respectfully, lawfully, and with integrity.

If elected, I will bring that same heart and discipline to the Vance County Board of Commissioners. I will listen, I will prepare, and I will always put the people of Vance County first.

People in general and media outlets sometimes look at a collective elected body or what an entity like Vance County is doing as a whole. Rather than that, what are some specific items or issues you see or would like to prioritize for District 4?

While countywide policy matters, representation begins at the district level. District 4 deserves focused attention on the issues that directly affect our neighborhoods and families.

First, I would prioritize fair and accurate property tax administration. Every homeowner in District 4 deserves transparency and consistency in how property values are assessed. When valuations are incorrect or unclear, it impacts family budgets. Oversight and accountability in this area are critical.

Second, I want to focus on infrastructure and community upkeep; roads, drainage, public facilities, and maintaining the character of our neighborhoods. Preventative maintenance is far less expensive than emergency repairs, and strategic planning protects property values.

Third, I will advocate for public safety and emergency response resources in our district. Ensuring our fire departments, law enforcement, and emergency services are properly supported is not optional, it’s foundational.

Fourth, as an animal advocate, I would like to see continued evaluation of our county’s animal services policies; focusing on responsible pet ownership, partnerships with rescues, and humane, efficient shelter practices. A community’s compassion reflects its character.

Finally, I want to strengthen communication between District 4 residents and county leadership. Citizens should not feel disconnected from decisions that affect their homes, taxes, and quality of life. I will make myself accessible and responsive.

District 4 is not just a line on a map; it’s our homes, our churches, our small businesses, and our families. My role will be to ensure our specific needs are heard and addressed thoughtfully and responsibly.

*********

CLICK PLAY!

The Local Skinny! CPOH in Need of Items

/by

If you had to go outside today, hopefully you were bundled up enough to keep warm as the wind swirled and cold temperatures persisted. No doubt, you didn’t linger outside if you didn’t have to.

The City Road Center for Hope Shelter Manager Darryl Jones said the overnight staff hung around until mid-morning today to allow the men in the shelter to have a few extra hours inside.

Usually, the men who spend the night at the shelter, located in the former City Road Methodist Church at 903 N. Garnett St., have to be out by 6:30 a.m.

But Jones said that in “white flag” conditions – when the temperature is below 32 degrees – the men can stay longer.

During the recent bout of ice and snow a few weeks ago, the shelter remained open because daytime temps never got above freezing. “Several times this season, the shelter was open all day long,” Jones explained.

The shelter gives men a safe place to spend the night, offering meals, a real bed, a shower, and a place to do their laundry.

The shelter always appreciates donations to help offset costs. Monetary donations are most welcome, but donations of other items help defray costs, too.

If you can donate any of the following items, please contact Jones at 252.820.0701 or email manager@cp-hope.org.

Below is a list of much-needed items at City Road Center for Hope:

  • Paper Products
  • Cleaning Supplies
  • Snacks
  • Family Size Frozen Dinners
  • Laundry Pods
  • Cereal
  • Batteries, AA or AAA
  • White Out
  • Office Supplies
  • PJ Bottoms, L, XL, or XXL
  • Shower Slippers, L or XL
  • Deodorant
  • Bath Towels
  • Monetary Donations are always welcome.

CLICK PLAY!

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

/by

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.

CLICK PLAY!