The 26th Annual Teen Court Statewide Mock Trial Summit Competition, hosted by the North Carolina Teen Court Association, took place in Concord, NC from April 19th to 21st. Granville County Teen Court's youth volunteers were among over 200 participants from across North Carolina, engaging in an educational weekend showcasing their skills and knowledge through mock trial competitions.

Seven dedicated student volunteers from Granville County represented the Teen Court, assuming roles such as attorneys, clerks, bailiffs, and defendants, competing against teams from various counties across the state. Representing Granville County in this year's event were: Defense Attorneys Cristina Portillo-Martinez and Jazlyn Usher, Prosecutors Joydan Johnson and Jermaine Puryear, Jr., Clerk of Court Iesha Landis, Bailiff Cassie Peele, and Defendant Caitlynne Horton.

These students dedicated weeks of diligent practice to perfecting their roles leading up to the competition. Amidst their regular schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and ongoing Teen Court responsibilities, they carved out time to come in for extra sessions on evenings, Saturday mornings, and even during school breaks to prepare thoroughly. Their perseverance paid off immensely as the team emerged victorious, claiming 1st place in the state competition! Additionally, two members received special recognition for their outstanding performance in the courtroom. Jazlyn Usher was honored with the title of "Best Attorney Courtroom A" in the Defense's trial, while Jermaine Puryear, Jr. received accolades as "Best Attorney for Courtroom B" in the Prosecution's trial, as well as the prestigious title of "Best Overall Prosecuting Attorney" across all courtroom trials.

Apart from the Mock Trial competition, the objectives for the three-day event encompassed several key goals: assembling volunteers from all Teen Courts across North Carolina; enhancing volunteer effectiveness in the courtroom; gaining practical experience through the Mock Trial Competition; fostering friendships; and exchanging information and experiences. On Friday night, youth engaged in a team-building workshop. Following a tense morning of mock trial competition, students were treated to much-needed stress relief and fun at the Great Wolf Lodge water park. On Saturday night, they enjoyed a Dinner Theater presentation titled, “The Douglas-Lincoln Debates, A One-Act Play and Discussion Event.” The play centered on the authentic and sometimes awkward humanity and vulnerability of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

The final day concluded with a presentation by Glenn Smith, Executive Director of Life Connections of the Carolinas, Inc., where he discussed the significance of restorative justice and the advantages of diversion programs like Teen Court.

Following this presentation was the awards ceremony, a moment filled with excitement and celebration for Granville County.

Ontic, a leading licensor and manufacturer of complex engineered parts for the global aerospace and defense industries, has announced Jack Karapetyan in the newly created role of Vice President and General Manager of Global MRO Operations in an exciting new direction for their manufacturing, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations.

Effective immediately, this internal move for Karapetyan, who was previously joint General Manager of Ontic’s Chatsworth, CA site alongside Terry Streb, signals a stronger strategic focus on MRO for Ontic. Focused on operational execution throughout his career, and having overseeing a number of operational improvement programs at Ontic’s Chatsworth site, Karapetyan will take the sum of his and the wider organization’s learnings to improve existing operations and win new MRO business for the company.

His primary responsibilities will be to assess the existing MRO operations, ensuring a cohesive and global approach to MRO within Ontic, and ultimately growing this part of the business.

Congratulating him on the new role, Brian Sartain, Chief Operating Officer at Ontic, said: “I’m excited to welcome Jack to this newly created role. Creating this strategically significant position will enable us to focus more on our MRO customers, improving existing operations and setting us up for future success.

“We are ambitious about this new direction and I look forward to working with Jack to make Ontic the service benchmark other MRO companies are marked against.”

Commenting on his new role, Karapetyan said: “I am thrilled to be taking on this new challenge at Ontic. There’s a lot of work to do and I’m already in conversation with some customers. MRO is a cornerstone of our industry and I’m looking forward to expanding our operations in this area.”

Terry Streb will take full responsibility of Ontic’s Californian site as Vice President and General Manager of Chatsworth following Karapetyan’s move.

Boeing continues to expand its exclusive distributor partnership with Ontic. Through a new 10-year distribution agreement, Boeing will add to its offerings the TRAS (thrust reverser actuation system) and PECU (propeller electronic control unit) product lines – approximately 1,000 actuation and propulsion system products across multiple aircraft platforms.

“We are thrilled to announce this significant milestone in our partnership with Ontic.” said Travis Sullivan, vice president and general manager, Boeing Distribution. “This collaboration not only expands our product offerings, but also reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class support to our engine operators.”

The TRAS product line supports the following engines and aircraft platforms: GE CF6-50/80 –A300/310/330, B747/767, DC10, KC10, MD11, VC-25A, C-5M, C-2; GE CF-34 – CL600/CRJ Series; Rolls Royce RB 211 – 747-400; and Rolls Royce Trent 900 and GE GP700 – A380.

The PECU is a critical LRU for the Dowty R408 series propeller system, for the De Haviland Canada DHC-8/Q400.Boeing’s distribution portfolio for Ontic also includes fuel controls, actuation, MWD (memory wheel device), lighting, interior electronics and wipers product lines, and business and general aviation displays for a range of civil and military aircraft platforms.

“As we continue to grow our product-line portfolio, we need a partner that can grow with us. Boeing’s breadth and depth of network ensures our customers will get the right part at the right time,” said Brian Sartain, Ontic’s chief operating officer. “Delivering parts to our airline customers on time and ensuring the highest level of quality is our highest priority. Boeing is a trusted partner in the aftermarket with customer relationships that span the globe.”

Boeing has a diverse and expansive portfolio that includes more than 15 million parts, chemicals, services and tailored solutions that reduce cost, risk and complexity through a global network with localized support. Boeing supports defense, commercial, rotorcraft and business and general aviation customers with their production and aftermarket needs, and provides 24/7 e-commerce access to parts and supplies via shop.boeing.com.

Ontic is a leading global aerospace OEM, providing complex engineered parts and repair services for?established aircraft in the defense and commercial market.

HENDERSON, NC (April 17, 2024) — Vance-Granville Community College (VGCC) is proud to welcome Representative Frank Sossamon to deliver the keynote address at its 55th annual commencement ceremony.

Rep. Sossamon serves the NC House of Representatives’ District 32, covering Vance and most of Granville County. He is a member of several House committees, including Education K-12, Appropriations, Appropriations Education, Transportation, and Commerce, as well as an interim member of the House Select Committee on Substance Abuse and the Joint Legislative Transportation Oversight Committee.

A native of Concord, NC, Rep. Sossamon learned the value of hard work, respect, fairness, and helping others from his parents. After graduating high school as a multisport athlete, he pursued an associate degree in mental health from Western Piedmont Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Biblical studies from East Coast Bible College, a Master of Ministry in church growth and church planting from Southwestern Christian University, and a Master of Divinity from Houston Graduate School of Theology. He served as a pastor for more than four decades, including 36 years at the South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church.

Rep. Sossamon is an active member of his community. He started the Chaplain Program at Maria Parham Health and served on the Ethics Council at the hospital; he also served as chaplain for the Vance County Sheriff Department for 24 years. He has been on the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council for Vance County for 35 years. Rep. Sossamon has been an active member of local Crime Stoppers groups for over three decades, serving as president of both the Henderson/Vance and Granville County chapters in turn. He has initiated a number of local community task forces in an effort to better the community.

Rep. Sossamon has been no stranger to VGCC during his freshman congressional term. Last year he spearheaded the effort to secure an $11.5 million allocation in the 2023-2024 State Budget for the College to construct a new center for advanced manufacturing. More recently, he played a key role in launching VGCC’s Funeral Service Education partnership with Fayetteville Tech, advocating for the program to support locally-owned businesses.

Vance-Granville Community College’s 2024 commencement will honor several hundred students who completed graduation requirements over the last year. The ceremony will take place Friday, May 10, on the grounds of the College’s Main Campus in Henderson. All members of the community are invited to attend.

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Established in 1969, VGCC is one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System. With a service area the size of Rhode Island, VGCC is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. VGCC offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484

At its conference on March 18, 2024, the North Carolina Athletic Directors Association (NCADA) awarded Mike Carroll an "Athletic Director of Excellence Award.'' This award is presented annually to nationally certified (CAA) athletics administrators with at least five years of experience who have been recognized for excellence and significant contributions to athletics within their conference, region, and/or across the nation. Carroll has served as the District Athletic Director for Granville County Public Schools since July 2022. He is also the Director of Maintenance and Environmental Safety.

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For the 9th consecutive year, Granville County veterans are invited to a free afternoon of information, entertainment and refreshments courtesy of the Granville County Veterans Affairs Committee.

On Saturday, March 9th at 1 pm the doors of the Granville County Convention and Expo Center will open for the program “I Am the American Flag”, with guest speaker Mark Pace, local historian and keeper of the North Carolina Room at Thornton Library. You’ll learn things about the flag that will surprise you, inspire you, and make you think. Early arrivals will have the opportunity to browse information and resources from veteran-related groups and organizations. The 2pm program will also feature JROTC cadets from J. F. Webb and Granville Southern High Schools, a pinning ceremony and recognition of each of the armed forces. And the day’s finish will be a tasty meal.

Come spend the afternoon with fellow vets to learn, share and be recognized. It’s the Committee’s way to say a sincere “Thank You for Your Service”.

For more information, contact Lyn Breisacher at 919-339-8352 or the Granville County Veterans Service Office at 919-693-1484

The meeting of the Granville County Library System Board of Trustees previously advertised for Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. is cancelled.

The Granville County Board of Commissioners at their meeting on Monday, March 18, 2024 will hold a legislative hearing at 7:00 p.m. or later at the Granville Expo and Convention Center at 4185 US Highway 15 South, Oxford, N.C. 27565.  

The purpose of the legislative hearing is to hear public comments on the following zoning map amendment (rezoning) petition:

Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning) Petition

Z-1-2024         Mr. Steven Hayes of Gatekeeper Investments, LLC has petitioned to rezone 4 lots (Lot #1, Lot #2, Lot #3, and Lot #5) recorded at Plat Book 52, Page 179 that have frontage on both NC 56 Highway and NC 96 Highway in Wilton  from Agricultural Residential 40 (AR-40) to Neighborhood Business (NB)

Mr. Steven Hayes of Gatekeeper Investments, LLC has petitioned to rezone 4 lots (Lot #1, Lot #2, Lot #3, and Lot #5) recorded at Plat Book 52, Page 179 that have frontage on both NC 56 Highway and NC 96 Highway in Wilton from Agricultural Residential 40 (AR-40) to Neighborhood Business (NB). The rezoning petition encompasses 12.258 acres.  The lots are also identified as Tax Maps #182700507440, #182700600358, #182700602140, and #182700605089.  

Changes may be made in the advertised proposals which reflect debate, objections, and discussions at the hearing.  Any interested citizen is invited to attend.

For additional information or public examination, contact the Granville County Planning Department, 122 Williamsboro Street, P.O. Box 877, Oxford, NC 27565; phone 919-603-1331 or fax 919-693-6794.

HENDERSON, NC (February 28, 2024) — In recognition of Black History Month, Vance-Granville Community College in partnership with Gateway Community Development Corporation proudly presented its second annual Black Business & Non-Profit Organization Award Ceremony on Friday, February 23.

The goal was to recognize the rich contributions Black-owned businesses and non-profit organizations have made to local quality of life—not just for the area’s Black residents but for all who call the community home. Organized by the College’s Small Business Center, this year’s event specifically focused on organizations based in Granville County. The county’s Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Development Authority also served as planners and presenters for the ceremony.

“It was important to recognize these Black-owned businesses,” explained Heather Joi Kenney, president/CEO of Gateway CDC and co-moderator of the award ceremony. “Shining a light on them shows them that we support them and recognize how important they are to our community.”

The atmosphere was one of celebration and camaraderie as friends and neighbors gathered to reflect on the hard work behind each organization. The ceremony took place at The Orpheum at Oxford, a renovated event space occupying a century-old downtown theater. Attendees enjoyed a lunch catered by Family Diner, one of this year’s honorees.

Twelve award winners were recognized across three categories: Legacy organizations, which have been in operation at least 10 years but often much longer; Established organizations, in operation 5–10 years; and Start-Up organizations, which are less than 5 years old.

The day’s festivities concluded with an award celebrating one special guest’s achievements. Honoree Harry Mills retired last September after nearly a decade as the county’s Economic Development director; prior to that role, he served as a social worker for Granville County Senior Services. Under Mills’ leadership, Granville County experienced unprecedented growth in commercial and residential development, attracted new industries and employers, and improved workforce development programs with VGCC and Granville County Public Schools.

Mills’ acceptance address was a testament to the local friends, loved ones, and institutions that supported him throughout his years of dedicated services. He concluded with a challenge to his fellow winners to remain focused on helping their community: “Let’s leave no one behind.”

Since initiating the awards ceremony in 2023, Vance-Granville Community College has planned to incorporate it into its Black History Month festivities annually, rotating its focus each year to a different part of the College’s service area. The 2025 event will take place in either Franklin or Warren County.

2024 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Start-Up (less than 5 years)

· Drug-Free Coalition of Granville County

· Naturally Nourished Tutoring LLC

· Oxford’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor

· Tru Soul Food Kitchen

Established (5–10 years)

· Family Diner

· Plumpeez Deli

· The Help Center NC

· Uptown Bar & Restaurant

Legacy (more than 10 years)

· Baton Rouge Cuisine

· Essential Massage

· Faison Plumbing Plus

· McCoy’s Taxi

Special Recognition: Harry Mills

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Established in 1969, VGCC is one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System. With a service area the size of Rhode Island, VGCC is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. VGCC offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer | cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484

Leading global aerospace firm, Ontic, whose Creedmoor site is home to well-known brands Firstmark, Aircraft Belts Inc., and Twin Commander, has donated $5,000 to the Autism Society of North Carolina - Granville County Support Group after Kyle Margeson, a member of Ontic’s team in Creedmoor, won the company’s fiercely contested Global Mario Kart Challenge.

After holding local qualifiers in the summer, the two winners from each of Ontic’s main sites (Creedmoor, NC; Chatsworth, CA; and two sites in the UK) battled it out in the company’s now annual Mario Kart tournament at the end of last year. It was a very tight race, where over 300 people gathered in cafeterias and on a livestream to cheer on their colleagues. Kyle Margeson, based at Ontic in Creedmoor, came out victorious and took home the coveted trophy.

As well as bragging rights, Kyle won $5,000 for Ontic Creedmoor’s chosen charity, the Autism Society of North Carolina - Granville County Support Group. Kyle said: “The work of the Autism Society of North Carolina means a lot to many of us here in Creedmoor. I’m very supportive of their Granville County Support Group and passionate about supporting the autism community. I'm glad that we were able to raise money to help bring awareness and support for families of autistic children and adults. As someone with autistic friends, I hope our contributions will go a long way to helping spread awareness and support in this community.”

On top of the $5,000 ‘winner’s’ check, the entry fees from Creedmoor are also being donated to the Autism Society of North Carolina.

Joshua Florio, General Manager of the Creedmoor site for Ontic said: “Supporting our local communities is really important to us at Ontic. We run regular events to raise money for a variety of charities, including toy drives and food drives, and we’re proud to have a local Corporate Responsibility team on each site who are always looking out for ways to raise money and ensure members of Team Ontic have fun while they’re doing it.

“It’s an exciting time for Ontic in Creedmoor as we recently doubled the size of our facility after significant works last year. We’re all set with the extension now and ready to take on more work and significantly increase the size of our team as Ontic continues to invest in new licenses around the globe.”

Michael Hooker, The Autism Society of North Carolina’s Development Associate who came to Ontic to receive the cheque said: “This contribution from Ontic will help so many of our families in Granville County. We are so thankful for the support from local community groups like yourselves. On behalf of the families we serve, thank you.” 

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About Ontic Ontic is a leading global aerospace OEM, providing complex engineered parts and repair services for established aircraft in the defense and commercial market.

Boasting a portfolio of 7,500+ top-level assemblies, Ontic is proud to work with our customers around the globe, with our team of experts delivering a wide variety of critical technologies, including fuel measurement systems, as well as a range of avionics, cockpit instruments and controls.

With over 45 years of product manufacturing and aftermarket support experience, Ontic has operations across North America, UK & Europe, and Asia providing strategic worldwide support to civil and defense customers when and where it is needed.

Contact Natalie Doel Global Marcomms Lead T: +44 7564 575303 E: natalie.doel@ontic.com W: www.ontic.com  

HENDERSON, NC (February 16, 2024) — Vance-Granville Community College proudly announces the launch of its new Court Reporting program this spring. When classes begin at the college’s Franklin Campus in March 2024, VGCC will become the only community college in North Carolina offering this fast-paced program.

The court reporting profession plays a critical role in ensuring that legal proceedings are accurately documented for future reference. Using specialized dictation equipment, court reporters produce real-time transcriptions of courtroom proceedings. At the time of publication, there are open reporting positions in North Carolina state courts with annual starting salaries above $45,000 and maximum salaries surpassing $80,000 per year.

Vance-Granville has implemented Court Reporting as a Continuing Education program, meaning that it is designed to be completed by adults who are already in the workforce; participants can successfully complete the training for their new career without the demands of a full-time class schedule. This particular program consists of four courses, each of which typically lasts four to eight weeks. According to Instructor Richard Jester, students committed to an accelerated pace could potentially complete the full program in the span of a single semester. Upon completion, students will be prepared to take the career’s national certification test.

At its launch, the new program will only be offered at the VGCC Franklin Campus in Louisburg. Jester anticipates offering portions of the program online in the future.

To learn more about Court Reporting and other career-enhancing programs at Vance-Granville Community College, please contact Lisa Rodwell, Director of Occupational Extension, at rodwelle@vgcc.edu or 252-738-3276. Register for this program today at www.vgcc.edu/coned/oex.

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Established in 1969, VGCC is one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System. With a service area the size of Rhode Island, VGCC is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. VGCC offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484

OXFORD, NC, February 12, 2024 – Granville Health System has announced its fourth quarter winner of the DAISY award. Crystal Paynter, BSN, RN was awarded The DAISY Award® on February 2, 2024. Crystal, a nurse in our Surgical Services department, was nominated for the DAISY Award by a coworker.

“Crystal had been granted her request for a day off to go on a field trip with her daughter. She knew we were going to be busy, so she contacted our Coordinator to volunteer to come to work for a few hours in the morning to help us out. On this morning a pediatric patient came to the recovery room in severe respiratory distress. Crystal was not assigned to recovery duties that day but saw that this patient needed help. She immediately took over, taking care of the needs of this patient while the recovery room nurse monitored vital signs and charted. Crystal tended to the needs of this patient, holding the patient in her lap, cared for the patient as if it was her own child, and made the patient as comfortable as possible until the patient’s oxygen levels had improved. When Crystal saw that the patient was stable, she turned the patient over to the parents before finally leaving to go do her duties of being a mom to her daughter. I feel like God put Crystal right where she needed to be to help this tiny patient AND this grateful coworker!”

The Award is part of The DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care they provide patients and families every day. Granville Health System is among many healthcare organizations participating in The DAISY Award program.

“It is my honor to present this well-deserved DAISY Award to Crystal,” said Ann Marie Holtzman-Wheeler, Chief Nursing Officer, Granville Health System. “She has demonstrated compassionate nursing care, and we are grateful for her commitment to care for our patients in the communities that we serve.”

Nurses are nominated by patients, families, and colleagues from Granville Health System. To submit an online nomination form, click here, or visit the GHS website at www.ghsHospital.org.

About Granville Health System:

For over a century, Granville Health System has been at the forefront of quality healthcare. To cater to the evolving needs of its community, Granville Health System has extended its services throughout Granville County, ensuring convenient medical care access for its residents. The Granville Health System main campus can be found at 1010 College Street, Oxford, North Carolina. For more details, visit GHS online at www.ghsHospital.org.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Lauren B. Roberson

919-690-3180 lbroberson@granvillemedical.com

Vance-Granville Community College is proud to announce that 154 students earned President’s List academic honors and another 189 earned Dean’s List academic honors during the fall 2023 semester, which ended in December. Congratulations to these students for all their hard work!

The President’s List recognizes students who achieved a perfect 4.0 quality point average while carrying a full load (12 credit hours or more) in 100-level or higher courses leading to a diploma or degree. To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must earn a quality point average of at least 3.5 but less than 4.0 and have no grade lower than “B,” while carrying a full load of courses as described above.

Fall Semester President’s List honorees are listed below by program of study and then by residence. The Dean’s List follows the President’s List.

Accounting & Finance:

Shannon M. Currin-Wilkerson and Paige Nixon, both of Henderson;

Deanna C. Gordon of Norlina;

Delbar Sarwari of Youngsville

Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology:

Marvin Y. Alvarado Romero of Henderson

Associate in Arts:

Saylor M. Gray of Bullock;

Noah B. King of Butner;

Brenda G. Euceda-Colindres, Ethan W. Frank, and Natalie R. Panganiban, all of Creedmoor;

Spencer R. Addison and Jena S. Schneller, both of Franklinton;

Launtica H. Brown, LauNtina H. Brown, Jiya C. Davis, Christina A. Dobbs, Aliayah D. Superville, Kayla U. Terry, and Alexandria J. White, all of Henderson;

MacIe E. Fleming and MacKenzie R. Stallings, both of Macon;

Yahir Hernandez-Garcia of Oxford;

Madison V. Eaton, Anna A. Fields, and Caitlyn L. Lister, all of Wake Forest;

Kristen K. Labra-Franco of Warrenton;

Kayla A. Puca of Youngsville

Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts:

Abigail G. Shaeffer of Franklinton;

Abigail E. Atkinson and Yandel Hernandez-Garcia, both of Oxford

Associate in Science:

Alexandra K. Brantley of Bunn;

Lydia M. Lewis of Butner;

Leilah R. Allen, Isabella C. Bechtel, McKenzie S. Chamberlain, and Brooke M. Woodcock, all of Creedmoor;

Alaija N. Alexander, Damian Daniel, and Christopher T. Grainger, all of Franklinton;

Jeremy S. Ivey, Matthew M. Lamey, and Marie P. O'Donoghue, all of Henderson;

Kitt M. Story of Louisburg;

Clariza Ramirez of Macon;

William X. Short of Norlina;

Andrew M. Arnott, Bryan M. Bautista, Evan S. Daniel, Grayson B. Gaul, Emma B. Powers, and Declan E. Sellers, all of Oxford;

Brady C. Eaton of Wake Forest;

Aubrey R. Campbell and Allison D. Sandell, both of Youngsville;

Haley J. Jones of Zebulon

Automotive Systems Technology:

Austin E. House of Henderson

Automotive Systems Technology Diploma:

Marcus D. Pierce of Franklinton;

Nicholas P. Wincovich of Louisburg

Business Administration:

Caden S. Klick of Raleigh;

Holder A. Mills of Wake Forest;

Logan Kurth of Youngsville

College Transfer Pathway:

Kathryn C. Folger and Logan M. Hite, both of Bullock;

Delaney M. Lowery, Karen V. Lucas-Rebollar, and Margaret G. McIlroy, all of Franklinton;

Kendall Ayscue, Noah A. Bean, Kaylan A. Blackwell, Chevy Chiem, Cassidy G. Hicks, Carly N. Howard,

Thuy P. Nguyen, and Lauren N. Taylor, all of Henderson;

Destiny S. Wilkerson of Kittrell;

Heba M. Issa and Adam W. Saleh, both of Louisburg;

Soha A. Algathi, Elizabeth A. Jones, Jacquelin Jose, Maya J. Lloyd, Marleigh G. Swanner, and Hannah T. Twisdale, all of Oxford;

Gracie A. Bullock of Stem;

Celeste V. Nugent, Rebekah F. Speier, Niles Tuttle, and Addison S. Wieberg, all of Wake Forest;

Ashtyn R. Turner and Caleb T. Wilson, both of Youngsville

Cosmetology:

Bianca Spies of Creedmoor;

Akyvia Alston and Jamaica N. Tuck, both of Henderson;

Alexis K. Perry of Louisburg;

Raina M. Hershberger of Oxford;

Liana G. Boyd of Raleigh;

Kailani J. Rivera of Wake Forest;

Casey N. Elliott and Jazsmin L. Kearney, both of Warrenton;

Kirsten Breeding and Samantha R. Westra, both of Youngsville

Criminal Justice Technology:

Markeith T. Ragland of Henderson;

Nicholas A. Bankert of Littleton;

Michael W. Sledge of Roanoke Rapids

Early Childhood Education:

Jessica M. Herman of Creedmoor

Early Childhood Education Diploma:

Adia M. Ford-Alston of Louisburg

Electrical System Technology:

Lucas K. Bohannon, Braden K. Cooper, James L. Hunt, and James W. Matthews, all of Henderson;

Matthew J. Reynolds of Louisburg;

Anthony J. Cujas of Oxford;

Brian D. Goss of Stem

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Daniel I. Randolph of Butner;

Jarrett L. Webster of Creedmoor;

Jaylen T. Bridges of Oxford

General Science AGE Degree:

Davis O. Orang'i of Apex;

Emily A. Sanchez of Butner;

Bailee Robinson of Henderson;

Leah M. Twara of Knightdale;

Odessa E. Johnson of Mebane;

Asia K. Prillaman of Oxford

Histotechnology:

Amarachi F. Eze of Franklinton

Human Services Technology — Substance Abuse

Christina M. Chiappette of Zebulon

Information Technology:

Chelsea A. McIntosh of Creedmoor;

Spencer A. Merrett of Durham;

Geoffrey S. Horton and Christian T. Oakley, both of Franklinton;

Kaitlyn M. Harris and Jacob D. Peace, both of Henderson;

Christopher L. Hawkins of Louisburg;

Sierra L. Ross of Norlina;

Owen C. Pienkosz and Keithia S. Rainey, both of Oxford;

Aaron M. Comer of Rougemont;

Tyson W. Carpenter and Christopher R. Deitz, both of Stem;

Bryan T. Fuller of Warrenton

Information Technology — Cyber Security Support:

Samantha L. Diard of Raleigh

Information Technology Diploma:

Christian Sanford of Henderson

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Malcolm T. Brownson and Christopher S. Dominguez, both of Henderson;

Colby C. West of Norlina

Medical Office Administration:

Terri W. Perkinson of Clayton;

Tiara D. Riggs of Warrenton

Paralegal Technology:

Ashanti D. Alston of Norlina

Paralegal Technology Diploma:

Jasmine R. Parker of Henderson

Public Safety Administration:

Jeffrey T. Cannady of Durham;

Christopher S. Pendergrass of Henderson;

Aaron D Porterfield of Wake Forest

Radiography:

Jenna M. Curry of Stem

Welding Technology:

Brett A. Freeland of Creedmoor;

Harrison L. Nash and Thomas F. Turner, both of Henderson

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Fall Semester Dean’s List honorees are listed below by program of study and then by residence.

Accounting & Finance:

Diamond N. Matos of Franklinton;

Zachary Vick of Oxford

Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Technology:

Caleb A. Hicks of Oxford

Associate in Arts:

Hunter C. Bailey, Leidy S. Chavez, Bobbie D. Cooper, Mark J. Panganiban Jr., Ayden J. Koonce, Audrey R. Leap, Savannah A. Moore, and Adalia A. Stephan, all of Creedmoor;

Liza L. Sneed-Adams of Durham;

Sienna W. Armani, Micah Jones, and Connor M. Thompson, all of Franklinton;

Annette Gomez Mancilla, Lisa R. Hayes, Aiyanna U. Jones, Calvin A. Kinyon, Nakirah B. Martin-Watson, Timyra D. Nicholson, William D. Parrott, Kadarrius Peace, Deja K. Perry, Terry T. Perry, Trinity F. Williams, and Charlotte R. Wortham, all of Henderson;

Sydney T. Hockaday and Ermelinda Z. Sanchez-Tehan, both of Kittrell;

Praise Austin and Adrianna K. Wilson, both of Littleton;

Rianne E. Mitchell, Hailey N. Murphy, Mathilda Nieto, and Skylar L. Watkins, all of Louisburg;

Raleigh E. Pierce and Bailee M. Willis, both of Macon;

Chandler N. Kearsey of Manson;

James L. Bowen of Norlina;

Selena E. Moretz-Cruz and Julianna M. Williford, both of Oxford;

Jadalynn F. Rivas of Spring Hope;

Hailey S. Anderson, Keira L. Enloe, Allen M. Garcia, Kyndal B. Satterfield, and Maycee B. Thompson, all of Stem;

Jonah N. Dela Fuente of Wake Forest;

Shakira S. Bryant, Eder L. Galindez-Martinez, Ziquan D. Hymon, Ayana Phillips, Devon E. Taranto, and Gabriela Vela-Leos, all of Warrenton;

Mia K. Reavis and Victoria Z. Sema, both of Youngsville;

Alicia C. Bennett and Elizabeth R. Miranda, both of Zebulon

Associate in Science:

Jasmine Holland of Chapel Hill;

Joydan N. Johnson and Kayla B. Ortiz-Vargas, both Creedmoor;

Helen E. Carter and Yadiel R. Cruz, both of Franklinton;

Emad Alashmli, Anahi Carreno Serna, Melonique A. Lewis, Chania O. Miller, Madison L. Richardson, Katlyn N. Singleton, and Antavious E. Terry, all of Henderson;

Bryce L. Tilghman of Kittrell;

Zaccary A. Coombs, Abigail M. Griffin, and Jazlyn A. Usher, all of Louisburg;

Madison R. Hetrick and Caleb Willis, both of Norlina;

Annabelle K. Arness, Cristian Fierros-Cheluca, and Ciara G. Jones, all of Oxford;

Beatrice N. Chavis of Raleigh;

Anadelia Rodriguez Guerrer of Stem;

Caleb S. Ferrell of Timberlake;

Kurtis Kline and Zachary W. Novak, both of Youngsville;

Victoria A. Pereda of Zebulon

Bioprocess Technology:

Alan A. Ascencio of Bullock;

Iryonna Richardson of Louisburg

Business Administration:

Hailey A. Lynch, Caleb C. Shumate, and Karah N. Vaughn, all of Franklinton;

Josalyn D. Brandon, Keyasha R. Cheek, Jacqueline D. Jones, and Victoria A. Markham, all of Henderson;

Rineesha D. Burrell of Oxford;

Christopher D. Hutchings of Rougemont

Business Administration — Business Management:

Adam T. Sultan of Rolesville

College Transfer Pathway:

Brisa S. Bello Sifuentes and Emmalee D Hicks, both of Creedmoor;

Serenity D. Jordan of Franklinton;

Reem M. Alashmaly, Colby T. Bargfrede, Harlie A. Culbreth, and Hunter W. Woodlief, all of Henderson;

Alaina F. Bullock, Cadence G. Hoyle, Taylor R. Stancil, and Emily G. Wilkinson, all of Oxford;

Allie E. Currin of Rougemont;

Luannie Arreola of Stem;

Ashley E. Anglade and Frank Debelak, both of Wake Forest;

Ayden J. Franklin of Youngsville

Cosmetology:

Caleigh A. Murphy of Castalia;

Taylor H. Sullivan of Franklinton;

Michelle Lopez of Henderson;

Laquitta R. Marrow, Sinia S. Smith, and Darcel A. Thornton, all of Oxford;

Lauren N. Kennedy and Ayanna C. Rivera, both of Wake Forest;

Anita R. James and Jimisha Parham, both of Warrenton

Criminal Justice Technology:

Michael C. Lane and Jade A. Latta, both of Creedmoor;

Franchester D. Isreal of Manson;

Katelynn L. Hart of Oxford;

Kaitlyn B. Elliott of Stem

Early Childhood Education:

Tokie Barrie of Creedmoor

Electrical System Technology:

Ryan D. Arnott and Brooks O. Finch, both of Oxford

Electronics Engineering Technology:

Benjamin A. Portillo of Creedmoor;

Samuel H. Dickerson of Henderson

General Science AGE Degree:

Allyson L. Alfano of Franklinton;

Kyasia O. Harrington, Brenda E. Juarez, and Jonathan A. Marrow, all of Henderson;

Sienna R. Howes and Michelle Morales, both of Louisburg;

Rebecca K. Short of Norlina;

Rachel O. Perez of Oxford;

Danna M. Frederick of Raleigh;

Sydney P. Adkins of Roxboro;

Dorothy A. Bell and Jessica P. Jordan, both of Wake Forest;

Janet G. Fagan of Warrenton

Human Services Technology:

Beatrice A. Green and Tabitha E. Williams, both of Henderson

Information Technology:

Shane B. Hope of Creedmoor;

Nathan O. Daniel, Pilar P. Furlow, and Christopher S. Lopez, all of Durham;

Nathan T. Preddy of Franklinton;

Victoria S. Hunt and Jaylen M. Wilson, both of Henderson;

Caraisiah C. Russell of Kittrell;

Andrew Nanfro of Louisburg;

Allea J. Hobgood of Oxford

Mechatronics Engineering Technology:

Ethan P. Jones of Bullock;

Brian T. Guarino of Butner;

Zachary A. Davis of Henderson

Medical Assisting:

Normalejandra Avila-Velazquez of Oxford

Medical Office Administration:

Madison N. Yorks of Durham;

Katelin L. Bolton of Franklinton;

Raven J. Howard and Kayla R. Penny, both of Henderson;

Cierra N. Strickland of Roxboro;

Nakia C. Green and Ashley M. Rogers, both of Youngsville

Office Administration:

Cheyenne M. Brogden of Henderson

Office Administration Diploma:

Brenda I. Hernandez Malpic of Butner

Office Administration Technology:

Ashley M. Robinson of Henderson

Public Safety Administration:

Raymond D. Finch of Franklinton;

Olivia P. Harrell of Oxford

Radiography:

Melanie D. Salmon of Bahama;

Adtler S. Lake of Creedmoor;

Vanika R. Gary of Durham;

Ashly C. Arias and Camden J. Spain, both of Henderson;

Kimberly L. Evans of Oxford;

Kailey G. Mangum of Rougemont;

Madison E. Dunkley of Roxboro

Teacher Preparation:

Courtney S. West of Louisburg;

Kelsey C. Blake and Skylar N. Mulhollen, both of Oxford;

Lily J. Young of Wake Forest

Welding Technology:

Ava G. Simpson of Louisburg;

Michael Hart of Youngsville

Welding Technology — Basic Welding Certificate:

Cristian I. Trejo-Trejo of Oxford

HENDERSON, NC (February 1, 2024) — Vance-Granville Community College is proud to announce that its president, Dr. Rachel Desmarais, was recently recognized by the Triangle Business Journal among the recipients of its 2024 Women in Business Awards.

Desmarais’s inclusion in the 2024 Women in Business Awards underscores her commitment to supporting local communities and economies through a highly skilled workforce. During the 2020-2021 academic year, Dr. Rachel Desmarais took the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge through the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), which included specific action steps to advance entrepreneurship and create jobs across the country. The college was so successful in these initiatives that NACCE named it the Entrepreneurial College of the Year in October 2022.

In late 2023, Dr. Desmarais led VGCC into the AdvanceNC partnership, an innovative workforce development ecosystem developing a robust talent pipeline to support unprecedented economic growth in central North Carolina. Through this initiative, 10 community colleges, two state universities, and six regional workforce development boards will collaborate to meet the industry needs of major international companies operating in the state.

For nearly three decades, the Women in Business Awards have celebrated women in the Triangle region who are dynamic and outstanding leaders, with established track records of significant accomplishments in business and community service. Triangle Business Journal honored a total of 25 winners this year.

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Established in 1969, VGCC is one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System. With a service area the size of Rhode Island, VGCC is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. VGCC offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484

GRANVILLE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS: The Granville County Board of Commissioners is seeking qualified applicants to fill roles on several citizen advisory boards and committees. Most positions will be filled by citizens who reside in the district listed, but final appointment decisions are at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners. Additionally, some positions must be filled by residents that reside within the Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction of a municipality (ETJ), which is roughly a one-mile radius outside of the municipal limits. These appointees serve as county representatives on those municipal advisory boards.

Applications are available on the Granville County website at this link: https://www.granvillecounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BOC-Application PDF2023.pdf. Completed applications should be returned to Debra Weary, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners, by email at debra.weary@granvillecounty.org, hand delivered in person to the County Administration Office located at 104 Belle Street in Oxford, or by mail to PO Box 906 Oxford, NC 27565 to the attention of Debra Weary.

To verify your district, please visit the NC State Board of Elections website: https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/ Look for the district number beside “County Commissioner” under “your jurisdictions.” If you need additional assistance, contact the Granville County Addressing and GIS Mapping Coordinator at 919-692-1278. Detailed information about each committee can be found on the Granville County website: https://www.granvillecounty.org/government/other-boards-commissions/.

Vacant seats are available for the following boards and committees:

• Butner Board of Adjustment (ETJ, should reside in District 7). The Butner Board of Adjustment meetsmonthly on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

• Butner Planning Board (ETJ, should reside in District 7). The Butner Planning Board meets monthly on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

• Granville County Planning Board (District 7). The Planning Board meets monthly on Thursdays at 7 p.m.

• Granville County Social Services Board (At-Large County Appointment). The Social Services Board meetsmonthly on Tuesdays at 5 p.m.

Raleigh, NC – Today, NC House Republicans held a press conference to address the US border crisis and its impact on North Carolina. House Republicans also shared a letter signed by all 72 NC House Republicans, urging Governor Cooper to take more significant action on behalf of our state. The letter was sent to Governor Cooper earlier today.

Representative Frank Sossamon emphasized the urgency of addressing the US border crisis and its impact on North Carolina, stating, “Our state cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the challenges posed by the unsecured border. The safety and well-being of North Carolinians must be our top priority. I join my fellow House Republicans in urging Governor Cooper to take decisive action to protect our communities."

The North Carolina House of Representatives urge Governor Cooper take the following actions:

· Deploy additional North Carolina National Guard troops to assist Governor Abbott, not under ineffectual federal authority, but in coordination with Texas leadership and request any needed additional resources for this deployment in your upcoming state budget submission.

· Commit to signing legislation that mandates cooperation with ICE by local police departments to remove illegal immigrants who are committing crimes. Many illegal immigrants are unaccompanied military-aged men with military or cartel experience.

· Halt any discretionary cooperation with the federal government to place and house illegal migrants in the State.

NC House Speaker Tim Moore said, "The Biden Administration has utterly failed to secure our border. Consequently, every state in the country is now a border state, including North Carolina. It is past time for Governor Cooper to take swift action on behalf of all North Carolinians."

Contact Clai Keel (919) 733-5824

GRANVILLE COUNTY TAX ADMINISTRATION: In the coming weeks, property owners in Granville County will receive letters that will show the tax values of their property. The tax value of each property must be updated with a regular “revaluation” as required by the State of North Carolina. As will come as no surprise to anyone who has watched the real estate market in the last few years, most property owners will see an increase in their property values. An increase in tax value could result in a higher tax bill, but this will only be decided after local elected officials including the Granville County Board of Commissioners decide on the tax rate during the annual budget process this spring.

How will the 2024 revaluation affect my taxes?

Two factors contribute to property taxes:

1. The property’s assessed value.

2. The tax rate per $100 of assessed value, which is set each year by elected officials.

Granville County will be required to identify and publish a revenue neutral tax rate. The revenue neutral tax rate is calculated by determining a tax rate that would generate the same amount of revenue as the previous year after allowing for normal growth. Considering the overall increase in property values, the revenue neutral tax rate is likely to be lower than the current tax rate. As of this writing, the revenue neutral tax rate is still being calculated. A future announcement will include that information.

As part of the annual budget process, the County Manager will recommend options to the Board of Commissioners for the tax rate needed to fund Granville County services. After a series of public meetings and a formal public hearing, the Board of Commissioners will approve a tax rate as part of the annual budget ordinance. This will occur no later than June 30, 2024, and the new tax rate will be reflected on 2024 tax bills.

Why is this happening?

North Carolina requires a regular property revaluation and Granville County last completed this process in 2018. The revaluation process sets the tax value of all land (residential and commercial) and structures like homes, office buildings, stores, and farms. Property tax is Granville County’s largest source of revenue to fund key services like public education, law enforcement, social services, and a host of other community and public services.

Property taxes are based on assessed value and revaluations ensure that the assessed property value is up to date and reflects changes in the market.

What’s next? Where can I find additional resources?

The new values will be available soon to property owners on the Granville County website along with a tool called “Comper” that allows property owners to compare their values to others. All Granville County property owners will receive mailed notices. Property owners wishing to appeal their new assessed value will be able to do so by utilizing the “Comper” tool and providing additional evidence to Tax Administration staff that may have been unknown during the revaluation process.

Granville County will continue to provide additional information to residents on the Granville County website by at www.granvillecounty.org/reval

If you have any questions, staff in the Granville County Tax Administration Office are ready to help you. Call 919- 693-8161 or email reval.2024@granvillecounty.org

On Friday, January 19, 2024, NC State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt, and other dignitaries, visited G.C. Hawley Middle School and South Granville High School to see a typical GCPS school day in action. She visited our Career and Technical Education classes, electives, and core subjects. Superintendent Truitt saw everything from agriculture, Health Occupations, Virtual Enterprise, and band to math, English Language Arts, and science courses. During her visit, Superintendent Truitt even got to see the new baby goat in our high school agriculture class. As a special treat, students in South Granville’s Virtual Enterprise course presented their business plan, which recently won second place in the NC Business Plan Competition and Trade Show. Superintendent Truitt also toured the new SparkNC lab located on South Granville’s campus.

GCPS was excited that Ms. Truitt could visit our schools and see the great things happening in our classrooms every day! Truitt has been the NC State Superintendent for three years; this is the first time she has visited GCPS. Dr. Winborne, GCPS Superintendent, commented, "We certainly were honored to have Superintendent Truitt come for a visit. It is always wonderful to allow our state and local leaders to see the amazing work our educators do every single day. We thank her for supporting our schools.”

Along with Superintendent Catherine Truitt, G.C. Hawley Middle School and South Granville High School had more visitors. Representative Frank Sossamon; Senator Mary Wills Bode; Granville County Commissioners, Chair Tim Karan, Vice-Chair Jimmy Gooch, and Dr. Tony Cozart; Granville County Manager Drew Cummings; GCPS Board of Education Members, Chair Glenda Williams, Vice-Chair Dr. Helen Lindsey, Leonard Peace, and Danielle Hayes; Creedmoor Police, Chief Troy Wheless, Jessica Laws, and Rickie Cates; NCDPI representatives Dr. Michael Maher, Tabari Wallace, Dr. Kendra King; and Jamey Falkenbury were all in attendance.

GRANVILLE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS: The Granville County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on Tuesday, January 2 at the Granville County Convention and Expo Center. The meeting featured the approval of a partnership with NC Department of Information Technology (NCDIT) and Spectrum under the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program that will fund the construction of fiber-optic broadband infrastructure capable of servicing at least 1,530 addresses in Granville County. Granville’s contribution to this project will be $10,000, while the State of North Carolina will contribute $4 million, and Spectrum will invest $7.9 million. Additional information on broadband expansion in Granville County can be found on the Granville County website: https://www.granvillecounty.org/government/administration/broadband-initiative/.

In other business conducted on January 2, The Board of Commissioners:

• Approved recruitment and retention bonuses along with salary adjustments for Department of Social Services (DSS) employees. This includes a sign-on bonus of up to $4,000 for new DSS employees along with retention bonuses of up to $4,000 for existing employees earning an annual salary of $50,000 or less and $1,500 for those earning more than $50,000 per year. The approved plan also includes salary adjustments and a new classification plan for all DSS employees.

• Approved a recommendation from the Fire Commission to modify the part-time staffing plan for the 12 volunteer fire departments in Granville County. The new plan will allow flexibility for days of the week and the number of paid fire fighters staffing each station based on the availability of qualified candidates and departmental needs. The Fire Commission will evaluate the modified staffing plan in April 2024.

• Approved a scrap metal/white goods recycling contract with Mike’s Auto Salvage at $100 per ton. This contract produces approximately $50,000 per year in revenue for Granville County.

• Approved a proposal from Paul Williford Builder, LLC to complete interior alterations for the Berea Branch Library to convert a storage room into an administrative office and meeting space at a cost of $23,600.

• Reappointed Mark Pennington to the Town of Butner Board of Adjustment.

• Reappointed Mike Wood and appointed Kate Sellgren to the Citizens Advisory Committee for Environmental Affairs.

• Reappointed Karen Alley and Amy Wester to the Library System Board of Trustees.

• Reappointed Sharon Pittman, Carolyn White, and Bridget Waters and appointed Kelly Claiborne to the Granville-Vance District Board of Health.

• Reappointed David Smith and Carol Jo Harris to the Senior Services Advisory Committee.

• Approved budget amendment #5 for fiscal year 2023-2024.

• Approved tax refunds ($4,915.41), releases ($1,799.82), and write-offs ($10.84).

• Approved an amendment to the fiscal year 2023 audit contract with Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams & Co.

The next meeting of the Granville County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Tuesday, January 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Granville County Convention and Expo Center.

To stay informed about upcoming meetings of the Board of Commissioners, visit the Granville County website www.granvillecounty.org where you can sign up for the “Sunshine List” and follow the county on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GranvilleCountyGov.

With the increase in cyber threats to many companies and organizations, Piedmont Community College (PCC) and Vance-Granville Community College (VGCC) are forging a groundbreaking partnership to educate the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The two colleges have established a Level-Two Instructional Service Agreement (ISA) for cybersecurity that will begin in January 2024.

The ISA signifies a comprehensive collaboration between the Colleges to share resources, faculty expertise, and instructional support and to develop work-ready talent in the cybersecurity sector.

As part of the agreement, PCC Cybersecurity Instructor Dr. Syed Raza will provide on-campus instruction at VGCC. He was formally the Chair of the Computer Science Graduate Program at Talladega College, holds a Doctorate in Computer Information Systems with an Information Assurance concentration, a Master of Science in computer science from Nova Southeastern University, and a master's in business administration (MBA) from Strayer University. Raza is also a member of various Cybersecurity and Information Technology (IT) organizations.

As a Carolina Cyber Network (CCN) member, PCC contacted its sister school, VGCC, to gauge their interest in working together and sharing resources to focus on cybercrime and cyber investigation. The Network is a comprehensive, innovative workforce development initiative among select North Carolina Cybersecurity educational institutions. Its 18 members are working together to meet the growing talent needs of North Carolina's public agencies and private businesses.

"This agreement reflects our commitment to ensuring students are ready to lead the way in Cybersecurity. By aligning with VGCC, we aim to create an educational ecosystem that transcends boundaries and prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world," said Dr. Pamela G. Senegal, PCC President.

Online and hybrid classes offered will include:

· SEC 110 Security Concepts (3 Credits)

· CCT 110 Intro to Cyber Crime (3 Credits)

· CCT 121 Computer Crime Investigation (4 Credits)

· CTI 120 Network & Security Foundations (3 Credits)

The ISA marks a strategic step towards fostering academic excellence and innovation. Both institutions are excited about the possibilities this collaboration presents and its positive impact on their students' education and future careers.

"We are proud to partner with Piedmont Community College to provide excellent learning opportunities in information technology for PCC and VGCC students. We can serve our communities better by pooling our resources, cooperating rather than competing," said Dr. Rachel Desmarais, VGCC President.

A Level-Two ISA is when two or more colleges plan to jointly offer curriculum or continuing education courses by sharing resources. One or more participating colleges must be approved to provide curriculum courses in an approved program of study or the continuing education courses the State Board has approved.

Visit www.piedmontcc.edu/cyber for more information.

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Pictured from left: Dr. Syed Raza, Instructor of Cybersecurity, PCC; Dr. Barbara Buchanon, Vice President of Instruction/Chief Academic Officer, PCC; Chris S. Davis, Dean of Business Studies & Emerging Technologies, PCC; Dr. Pamela G. Senegal, President, PCC; Dr. Kim Sepich, Vice President of Learning, Student Engagement & Success/Chief Academic Officer, VGCC; Dr. Rachel Desmarais, President, VGCC; Stephanie Tolbert, Dean of Business & Applied Technologies, VGCC; Spence Bailey, Program Head and Instructor of Information Technology, VGCC; and Christal Thomas, Department Chair of Business Technologies, VGCC.

GRANVILLE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS: Granville County staff and the Board of Commissioners have recently become aware of a petition on change.org in opposition to one possible outcome of a current Request for Proposals (RFP) for Granville County Solid Waste Operations Services. The RFP, developed by staff with the assistance of the County’s landfill consultant, Garrett & Moore, was issued in October 2023. Landfill operations had not been competitively bid in several decades, and the landfill is operated at a substantial annual loss even after considering “tipping fees” - the charges people and companies pay per ton to dump trash at the landfill.

County administration believed it important to see whether other pricing and operating options might be available and prove to be worth considering, so the RFP developed by staff was written broadly to solicit a wide range of proposals. County administration is in full agreement that the way we operate our landfill is and should be a matter of public interest. Proposals received by Granville County will be carefully evaluated and brought forward to the County Commissioners along with staff’s recommendation at a public meeting in early 2024 where public input will be welcomed. Further questions about the RFP can be directed to Jason Falls, Environmental Services Director at jason.falls@granvillecounty.org.

GRANVILLE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS: The Granville County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on Monday, December 4 at the Granville County Convention and Expo Center. The meeting featured the election of Commissioner Timothy Karan (District 6) as the new Chair and Commissioner Jimmy Gooch (District 7) as the new Vice-Chair. Both will serve in these roles until December 2024. Karan is in his fourth term on the Board of County Commissioners after first being elected in 2010. This is the second time he has served as Board Chair after previously holding the same role from 2016-2017. Karan also served as Vice-Chair in 2014- 2015 and 2022-2023. Gooch was appointed to the Board of Commissioners in 2020 and elected to his first full term in 2022. This is his first time serving as Vice-Chair.

In other business, the Board of Commissioners approved a request from Social Services Director LaToya Toussaint to add seven positions to manage the anticipated workload increase from the recently implemented expansion of Medicaid eligibility in North Carolina. Caseloads are expected to increase by 45% as approximately 3,000 to 4,000 residents in Granville County become eligible under the new requirements. Toussaint requested that the Board of Commissioners approve seven positions (four Medicaid Eligibility Case Workers, one Medicaid Supervisor, one Trainer/Quality Assurance, and one Accountant). These positions are all partially cost-shared with the NC Department of Health and Human Services.

The Board of Commissioners also conducted the following business on December 4:

• Received an update from Human Relations Commission Chair Rev. John Gooch.
• Approved the 2024 meeting schedule.
• Approved the board, committee, and liaison assignments list.
• Approved 2024 bonds for county officials (Finance Director, Tax Administrator, Sheriff, and Register of Deeds).
• Approved a pump station site maintenance contract for Triangle North Granville Business Park from E. Christian and Son at a cost of $13,912.50.
• Approved a resolution of support for a grant application from Granville County Public Schools to the NC Department of Public Instruction to construct a new middle school facility at the former G.C. Hawley site in Creedmoor.
• Approved a compensation increase for members of the Jury Commission from $300 per year to $500 per year.
• Approved a proposal from Civic Plus to host and provide a content management system for the Granville County website and to complete a full redesign and deployment of the county website at a cost of $62,734.50 for year one and a recurring cost of $22,464.30 beginning in year two.
• Approved a proposal from Civic Plus to provide agenda management software and services at a cost of $14,266.50 for year one and a recurring cost of $14,178.15 beginning in year two.

• Reappointed Ethel Anderson (District 1) and Gary Kanady (District 6) to the Kerr Tar Advisory Council on Aging.
• Reappointed Zelodis Jay (District 1), Tony Cozart (District 4), and Timothy Karan (District 6) to the Granville Health System Board of Trustees. The next meeting of the Granville County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Tuesday, January 2 at 7:00 p.m. at the Granville County Convention and Expo Center.

To stay informed about upcoming meetings of the Board of Commissioners, visit the Granville County website www.granvillecounty.org where you can sign up for the “Sunshine List” and follow the county on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GranvilleCountyGov.

Granville County Youth Leadership Council represent the crucial role that youth have in shaping the future. Particularly the youth voice in Granville County. The Council is a platform that empowers young minds to actively participate in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of responsibility and commitment to community development. Members are not only representatives of youth civic engagement, but they are architects of change bringing new ideas and opportunities to the community. Comprising of talented and passionate young leaders, the Youth Council members are poised to make significant impacts and contributions to Granville County.

The GCYLC members were chosen from a pool of applicants comprised of students from High Schools across Granville County. The term of office runs from September 2023-June 2024. The new members joining the council for the 23-24 year are: Ana Black, District 4; Josef Black, District 4; Claire Glavin, District 7; Jacquelin Jose, District 4; Kaylee Overby, District 5; Dylan Roseman, District 5 and Nathanael Royster, District 7. These new members have hit the ground running and already involved in many activities.

GCYLC Members 2023-2024 Term
Jermaine Puryear, Jr., Chair, Board Liaison, District 3
Elaina Eley, Vice Chair, Board Liaison, District 6
Amber Necessary, Secretary, Board Liaison, District 6
Jaden Easow, Treasurer, Board Liaison, District 6
Iesha Landis, Social Events Chair, Board Liaison, District 6
Cassie Peele, Media and Public Relations Chair, Board Liaison, District 2
Vashti Pearson, Social Media/Content Creator, Board Liaison, District 5
Asia Abdul-Haqq, Board Liaison, District 5
Joydan Johnson, Board Liaison, District 6
Ana Black, Board Liaison, District 4
Josef Black, Board Liaison, District 4
Claire Glavin, Board Liaison, District 7
Jacquelin Jose, Board Liaison, District 4
Kaylee Overby, Board Liaison, District 5
Dylan Roseman, Board Liaison, District 5
Nathanael Royster, Board Liaison, District 7

The purpose of this council is to ensure that youth in the community have a voice, but most importantly, that their voices are heard, recognized and valued. During their tenure, they will gain invaluable leadership skills through their service on selected county boards, outreach, initiatives and youth-led projects. The members have already been hard at work, holding a strategic planning session retreat in November.

Members divided into committees where they worked diligently on plans for future initiatives. The day ended with some team building activities at Palace Pointe. The Council has ambitious plans for the future. From launching a Teen Clothing Closet, sponsoring a Teen Night, developing a mental health proposal for teens, and hosting community forums and discussions. These young leaders are determined to make a lasting impact. By fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and innovation, the Youth Council aims to create a community where the aspirations of youth are not only acknowledged but actively supported. They will not only provide a voice to the County Commissioners, but they will actively serve on boards such as the HumanRelations Committee, Veterans Affairs, Board of Trustees with the Library, etc.

The Youth Leadership Council presented their annual report at the commissioners meeting on November 6, 2023. They discussed their accomplishments from the previous year and their plans for the future. If you would like to learn more about the Council and their activities, please visit their website at www.granvilleylc.weebly.com

HENDERSON, NC (November 9, 2023) — Get into the holiday spirit and give back to your community during the 2023 Festival of Trees Online Silent Auction, hosted by the VGCC Foundation! Bid on beautiful, pre-decorated holiday trees from November 12–19, available to take home before Thanksgiving. All fundraiser proceeds will benefit the VGCC Foundation and students in need—providing scholarships, emergency assistance, and more.

· Decorated trees will be on display at the VGCC Main Campus Civic Center (200 Community College Rd, Henderson, NC).

· View trees in-person November 13–17, 8 am–3 pm. Photos will also be available on the college’s Facebook Event page.

· Winners must pick up their trees by 5 pm on Tuesday, November 21.

Access the auction by visiting www.vgcc.edu/festival-of-trees.

In addition to supporting students, the Vance-Granville Community College Foundation supports a broad range of special projects involving education, training, and economic development in our community. Tax-deductible donations to VGCCF have often been used to honor a person, group, business, or industry with a lasting gift to education. For more information about the Festival of Trees auction or the VGCC Foundation, contact VGCCF at foundation@vgcc.edu or 252-431-5913.

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Established in 1969, VGCC is one of the 58 institutions of the North Carolina Community College System. With a service area the size of Rhode Island, VGCC is the local source for higher education and training in Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties. VGCC offers more than 40 curriculum programs, as well as Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484