The Daily Dispatch - Friday, December 18, 2009 by The Daily Dispatch

CMYK N.C. court says inmates should go free

Mail stolen from Lewis area boxes

Bengal WR Henry dies in accident

Public Records, Page 6A

Local & Nation, Page 9A

Sports, Page 1B FRIDAY, December 18, 2009

Volume XCV, No. 296

(252) 436-2700

Prison term for firearm possession

www.hendersondispatch.com

Please see PRISON, page 4A

Area bridges remain closed By DISPATCH STAFF

The Harry Davis Road bridge over Grassy Creek in northern Granville County remains closed because of high water at the John H. Kerr Reservoir, the N.C. Department of Transportation said. The bridge connects motorists with the Grassy Creek Recreation Area and Mecklenburg County, Va. The bridge was closed Tuesday. Additionally, two bridges in northern Vance County — one on Nutbush Road, the other on Jacksontown Road — have been closed since Sunday because of high water, NCDOT said. Send comments to news@ hendersondispatch.com.

Index Our Hometown . . . . . 2A Business & Farm. . . . 5A Opinion . . . . . . . . . . 10A Light Side . . . . . . . . 11A Sports. . . . . . . . . . 1-4B Comics . . . . . . . . . . . 5B Classifieds. . . . . . . 6-8B

Weather Today Snow likely

High: 36 Low: 31

Saturday Snow likely

High: 35 Low: 28

Details, 3A

Deaths Bullock Robert L. Williamson, 63 Henderson Marvin E. Faulkner Jr., 84 Daisy Ross Hunt, 77 Oxford Jerry E. Johnson, 76

Obituaries, 4A

50 cents

Snow, sleet coming to call Where’s

bidding to end?

By AL WHELESS Daily Dispatch Writer

A 34-year-old Norlina man received a 55-month prison sentence Dec. 11, when he pleaded guilty in Federal Court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. When Henderson Police officers arrested Ronald Keith Hargrove Hargrove on some outstanding warrants on Nov. 28, 2008, they charged him with having a .45-caliber handgun with him at the time. Through the work of the police department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, Hargrove

Southerland tract attracts another offer By WILLIAM F. WEST Daily Dispatch Writer

by holdover Commissioner Walter Cantley. New Commissioner Ron Bullock, who was appointed to the committee, was in attendance Wednesday, along with holdover Commissioner and Property Committee Chairman Bob Williford, new Commissioner and Finance Committee Chairman Danny Currin and City Manager Mark Donham. Thomas, at an Oct. 1, 2008, joint meeting of the commission’s property and public works committees, said estimates from Dewberry that showed engineering work at the junction of Goshen and Cherry would cost approximately $19,000 and that construction would cost ap-

The counteroffer is now $155,000 for the Southerland’s Mill Pond tract in the southeastern part of Vance County. State Rep. Bill Faison, D-Orange, submitted a bid Monday, topping a Dec. 1 bid of $147,050 by Robert Southerland, a former city councilman and whose family once owned the property. Faison’s counteroffer means another 10-day bidding process will start. City Clerk Pam Glover said an official notice is expected to be in the Dispatch by Saturday, with the bidding deadline being 5 p.m. Dec. 29. The city acquired the Southerland’s Mill Pond tract in 1952 for $51,000. The council approved a resolution July 27 stating the city’s intent to sell the land, with Garry Daeke casting the lone no vote. Daeke dissented about the municipal government selling land at $8,000 less than what the city paid more than a half-century ago. Daeke was referring to Southerland, who made the first offer, which was $43,000.

Please see STORM WATER, page 3A

Please see BIDDING, page 3A

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

The worst of winter is headed this way. A team from the North Carolina Department of Transportation pretreats Chestnut Street Thursday with salt brine in anticipation of winter weather Friday and Saturday across the Tri-County area. The salt brine is applied to the road surface to prevent the formation or development of bonded snow and ice for easier removal. The area is under a winter storm advisory from noon today until 7 p.m. on Saturday. Freezing rain and sleet are possible after midnight today, with snow and sleet accumulating about an inch. Additional accumulation of snow on Saturday is possible.

Storm water control could cost more ‘Modest increase’ of dollar a month would help pick up pace of studies, projects By WILLIAM F. WEST Daily Dispatch Writer

OXFORD — Residents could be paying $1 a month more in the amount they pay for storm water control efforts. City Public Works Director Larry Thomas said the Dewberry engineering firm of Raleigh is recommending a “modest increase” in the anti-pollution component of Oxford ratepayers’ bills. Thomas is specifically recommending the $1 a month increase, to take effect in Fiscal Year 2010-2011 if approved by the City Commission.

Thomas, at a Wednesday meeting of the commission’s Public Works Committee, said he and Dewberry representatives want to talk with the committee because “we’d like to see some acceleration of some of these storm water studies and these storm water projects.” Goshen Street and the junction of Goshen and Cherry Street remain prone to flooding and there are drainage problems along Maluli Drive at the southeastern edge of the city and along Country Club Drive at Quail Ridge Road near Thorndale Country Club, Thomas said. “At some point in time between now and budget time we’ll be coming back to you, talking about storm water,” Thomas told the committee. The committee is now chaired

Hughes cleared, intends to file for commission

Vance panel likes leasing land to school

By AL WHELESS Daily Dispatch Writer

Only hours after a Craven County District Court judge cleared the way Thursday for Scott Hughes to join the army, the Vance Commissioner said he might not. During a telephone interview, Hughes added that he still intends to file in February to run for a second term representing District 7 on the Board of Commissioners. He is considering “other opportunities,” instead of going to OfHughes ficer Candidate School, according to Hughes. The judge dismissed a misdemeanor charge against Hughes. The warrant had been taken out on Sept. 21 by Russell Railnear of Havelock. He had accused Hughes — who was arrested in Henderson on the warrant on Oct. 10 — of sending a threatening e-mail to his Facebook page. According to a spokesman for the Havelock Police Department, Railnear told officers he had met Hughes’ estranged wife “at school.” Railnear had also mentioned to police, the spokesman said, that

Property Committee members will recommend Jan. 4 that Vance Commissioners lease about two acres off Old County Home Road to the Henderson Collegiate Charter School. In return for the temporary site that would allow classes for 100 freshmen to begin next August, the school would pay the County $1 a year for three years. Charter School officials who met Thursday with the Property Committee included: Nancy Jo Smith, chairwoman of the board of directors; Dr. Cornelius Cathcart, a board member; and Eric Sanchez, co-founder and school planner. A special use permit for education is needed from the Board of Adjustment to operate the school on Health Center Road. The property is zoned Office & Institutional. Sanchez said the school

Please see HUGHES, page 4A

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

Keeping kids safe Lt. Irvin Robinson and SPO Angela Feingold, above work on assembling a toddler car seat during a Safe Kids child safety seat inspection in the Compare Foods parking lot Thursday afternoon. Below, Feingold straps Shymere Puryear and his booster seat into his mom Celcia’s car.

Please see VANCE, page 3A

The Daily Dispatch

Our Hometown

Friday, December 18, 2009

Community Christmas celebration set for Sunday

Mark It Down Today Flu clinic — The health departments in Vance and Granville counties will be holding H1N1 flu clinics on Friday afternoons from 1-4 p.m., except for Dec. 25, while supplies last. The vaccine is free. The health department also has a limited supply of seasonal flu vaccine for individuals 6 months of age and older. The charge for the seasonal flu vaccine is $32. The pneumonia vaccine is also available for individuals over 65 years of age at a cost of $50. Medicare Part B (red, white, and blue card), Medicaid, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Wellpath insurance plans are accepted for immunizations. Please contact the Granville County Health Department at (919) 693-2141 or the Vance County Health Department at (252) 492-7915 for more information. ‘Look Good’ class — Granville Health System, in conjunction with the American Cancer Society, is offering a free two-hour class entitled “Look Good … Feel Better” for women of all ages who are currently undergoing chemotherapy. Tips on makeup, turban or cap wear, and wig care will be among the topics covered. The class meets from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Specialty Clinic at the medical center. Makeup and supplies are provided free of charge. Participants do not need to be receiving their chemotherapy treatments at Granville Specialty Clinics to attend. However, space is limited and advance registration is required. For additional information or to sign up for the class, call Granville Health System Specialty Clinics at (919) 690-3210. ‘Messiah’ concert — The Concert Singers of Cary will perform Handel’s “Messiah” at 8 p.m. in the Frances Boyette Dickson Auditorium at Louisburg College. Admission is free, but those attending are asked to bring a canned food item for the local food bank. For more information, call 1-866773-6354. Weight loss group — TOWN (Take Off Weight Now), a non-profit weight loss group, will meet at Aycock Recreation Center at 11:30 a.m. Everyone is invited to attend.

Saturday Dee’s Music Barn — Dee’s Music Barn, 3101 Walters Road, Creedmoor, will be featuring James Potreat and The Ace In The Hole Band at 7 p.m. For more information, call (919) 528-5878. Ridgeway Opry House — Performing this week are Julia Morton, Joyce Chisenhall and Matt Nelson with guest bands Tri- County Band and Classic Country. Doors open at 6 p.m. Music starts at 7 p.m.

Monday NARFE meeting — The National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Chapter #28 will hold its annual Christmas gift meeting at the Dabney Drive Restaurant at 9 am. Federal active and retired employees are encouraged to attend and bring a wrapped Christmas present ($10 and under). There will also be a talk on preventing falls.

Tuesday Workshop — The Warren County Extension Center, in conjunction with the Warren Family Institute and the Warren County Schools, will host a workshop entitled “Holiday Safety and Encouraging Academic Success” at 6 p.m. Guest speaker will be Lorrie Crawley, director of New Beginning Daycare in Warren County. Free turkey and food boxes will be given to the first 40 families that pre-register. Dollar General of Norlina and its customers have been collecting toys that will also be given away at the event. To register, contact Rachel Monterverdi at (252) 257-3640 or Lori Parrott at (252) 257-1134. Alpha Phi Alpha — The members of the Rho Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity will meet at 6 p.m. at W.T. Ramey’s home at 2555 Raleigh Road. The members be delivering Christmas gifts and food to the family the group has adopted for Christmas.

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VGCC Bioprocess Technology Program head Joseph Tyler works with a Henderson Middle School student in the lab on the college’s main campus on a process that creates biodiesel from soybean oil.

Middle school students produce biodiesel at VGCC Henderson Middle School students were recently producing biodiesel fuel on the main campus of Vance-Granville Community College as part of a partnership that has developed between the college’s Bioprocess Technology Program and the Citizen Schools after-school program at the middle school. VGCC’s two-year Bioprocess Technology degree program is designed to prepare individuals to work as process operators in biological products manufacturing facilities. Citizen Schools is a national non-profit organization dedicated to providing students with access to educational and economic opportunity. Henderson Middle School is one of only four schools in North Carolina with a Citizen Schools program, according to the national web site (www.citizenschools. org). VGCC Bioprocess Technology program head/instructor Joseph Tyler has become one of the “citizen teachers” in the local community who

lead apprenticeships for the program. Apprenticeships give students the opportunity to learn by doing while being taught by experts. “Mr. Tyler has been doing a great job with the students,” said Kaylor Garcia, the local Citizen Teacher liaison. “The students’ experiences are giving them a good foundation in science and sparking their interest in further study. This is going to help them be more motivated to go to college.” Team Leader Tamara Terry, who has accompanied the students to VGCC, added that working in the VGCC lab exposes students to possible future careers and subjects they might study in college. “The students gain confidence when they perform lab procedures and they find out what they can accomplish,” said Terry. Under Tyler’s direction, the HMS students are getting hands-on experience in the college’s state-of-the-art biotechnology lab. The students, who

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included sixth, seventh and eighth-graders, have created biodiesel from soybean oil. They were building on what they had learned the week before, when they visited the Biofuels Center of North Carolina in Oxford and heard about converting various materials into fuel. On Nov. 24, the students finished the production of a large batch of biodiesel for presentation at the concluding session of this fall’s Citizens School program. Arrangements are being made to test the biodiesel in a small diesel engine before the presentations in December. For more information on the Bioprocess Technology Program, call Tyler at (252) 738-3350.

The Vance County Ministers Community Partnership will host an Old Fashioned Christmas this Sunday at 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Henderson. The Ministers Community Partnership is an organization of ministers in the city and county who have come together to unite ministers, churches and the community for the cause of Christ. This service of celebration will include singing familiar Christmas carols, reading the Christmas story and other Scripture passages, singing by several choirs and prayer for local churches and the community. Ministers from many different community churches and Christian denominations have been involved in planning this special service. The public is invited to join in this celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

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From Page One

The Daily Dispatch

FIVE-DAY FORECAST FOR HENDERSON TODAY

TONIGHT

SATURDAY

Snow Likely

Rain/Snow

36º

31º

35º 28º

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Mostly Cloudy

Mostly Sunny

38º 20º

39º 17º

40º 22º

Almanac

Sun and Moon

Temperature

Sunrise today . . . . . Sunset tonight . . . . Moonrise today . . . Moonset today . . . . Sunrise tomorrow . Sunset tomorrow . . Moonrise tomorrow Moonset tomorrow .

Raleigh -Durham through 6 p.m. yest. High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Normal High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Normal Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Record High . . . . . . . . .71 in 2006 Record Low . . . . . . . . .11 in 1963

.7:19 .5:01 .9:00 .7:04 .7:20 .5:02 .9:34 .8:02

a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m. a.m. p.m.

Moon Phases

Precipitation

First 12/24

New 1/15

Last 1/7

Full 12/31

Lake Levels Elevation in feet above sea level. Data as of 7 a.m. yesterday. 24-Hr. Lake Capacity Yest. Change Jordan 240 217.6 -0.2 Neuse Falls 264 254.6 -0.4

24-Hr. Capacity Yest. Change 203 199.3 +0.1 320 307.5 -0.2

Regional Weather Henderson 36/31

Winston-Salem Durham 36/31 35/30 Asheville 33/32

Rocky Mt. 39/33

Greensboro 35/30 Raleigh 37/31 Charlotte 37/34

Fayetteville 42/35

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Cape Hatteras 50/45

Today

Sat.

City

Hi/Lo Wx Hi/Lo Wx City

Hi/Lo Wx Hi/Lo Wx

Asheville Boone Burlington Chapel Hill Chattanooga Danville Durham Elizabeth City Elizabethton Fayetteville Goldsboro Greensboro Greenville Havelock Hendersonville

33/32 32/29 35/30 36/31 43/34 35/33 36/31 44/37 39/32 42/35 42/34 35/30 43/37 48/44 32/31

35/30 47/39 44/38 44/36 51/39 52/47 46/44 46/40 37/31 40/29 38/32 39/33 38/31 49/41 35/30

rs sn sn sn ra sn sn ra rs ra ra sn rs ra rs

38/26 29/21 33/27 35/28 41/29 35/25 35/28 44/32 34/25 38/31 38/30 33/27 41/31 45/33 37/26

ra sn sn ra mc sn ra ra sn ra ra sn rs ra ra

High Point Jacksonville Kinston Lumberton Myrtle Beach Morehead City Nags Head New Bern Raleigh Richmond Roanoke Rapids Rocky Mount Sanford Wilmington Winston-Salem

sn ra ra ra ra ra ra ra sn rs ra ra sn ra sn

33/27 43/32 42/31 41/34 49/38 50/37 49/36 43/32 36/29 32/27 36/28 37/29 36/29 47/36 33/27

sn ra rs ra ra ra ra ra rs sn ra ra rs ra sn

Weather (Wx): cl/cloudy; pc/partly cloudy; ra/rain; rs/rain & snow; s/sunny; sh/showers; sn/snow; t/thunderstorms; w/windy

Today’s National Map

City Attorney John Zollicoffer said the next person to submit a bid would have to counter with an amount of at least $45,200, which is a state-required 5 percent increase plus $50. And Zollicoffer said a counteroffer would have to come within 10 days, along with a $2,200 deposit filed with Glover. Elissa Yount, a former city councilwoman, entered the competition with a counteroffer of $50,000 and Bier Haus entered the competition with a counteroffer

of $55,000. Paul Harris is a managing member of Bier Haus. Harris is president of the Budweiser distributorship, which is off Warrenton Road, and Bier Haus, which is a limited liability company, owns the distributorship building. Yount made a counteroffer of $60,000, Southerland made a counteroffer of $63,500 and Bier Haus took the lead again with a counteroffer of $70,000. Henderson attorney Randall Cloninger entered

plans to add a grade a year through the eighth grade. The first year, an 8,000-square-foot module containing four classrooms, a multi-purpose room and administrative offices would be placed on the site. It is adjacent to what used to be Vance Manor, and is across the road from the Alcohol Rehabilitation Center. A second module, which would have eight classrooms, would be added the next year, according to Sanchez. In an Aug. 26 letter to

County Manager Jerry Ayscue, Smith said the charter school’s board of directors hopes it will eventually become a tenant in the proposed Zene Street/ REEF tobacco warehouse conversion project. It was during the commissioners’ Oct. 5 meeting that the charter school officials sought use of the soon-to-be-closed Clark Street Elementary School building as a three-year site after it is abandoned at the end of this school year. On Oct. 12, Vance School

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flooding in rainy weather. Thomas on Oct. 1, 2008, said, “You’re getting ready to spend all your storm water money out” at the Meadowbrook subdivision north of the country club, meaning the city needed to build up a financial reserve. Some Meadowbrook residents had been complaining about flooding in their subdivision since at least the spring of 2007. Thomas on Oct. 1, 2008, additionally advised the commissioners to look at possibly raising the storm water fee. Then-Finance Committee Chairman Chance Wilkinson expressed caution about raising any fees, citing the economic recession and the burden on taxpayers. The then-commission Aug. 11 accepted a bid of $59,694 from H.G. Reynolds

er Ev

110s 100s 90s 80s 70s 60s 50s 40s 30s 20s 10s 0s

proximately $80,000. And Dewberry estimates showed that engineering work for Goshen from Ivey Day Road to Alston Court would cost approximately $29,000 and that construction would cost anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000, Thomas said at the time. Goshen provides a shortcut from the edge of Oxford’s central business district to the outer highways that connect the city with the western and northwestern parts of Granville County, as well as Person County and South Boston, Va. Goshen is a hilly, twolane thoroughfare, but, heading away from central Oxford, a high point of the street starts declining into a low area that includes Alston. And street signs immediately warn motorists of

of Henderson to improve drainage pipes at Meadowbrook. Thomas told the newspaper Wednesday that the since-completed Meadowbrook project came in under budget and that he estimates the storm water fund has at least $55,000. The commission majority on Jan. 11, 2005, established the fee to finance the pollution control program. Then-Commissioners Jack Carey and Clement Yancey voted no because they believed the program should be financed with general fund property taxes. Then-Public Works Chairman Committee Chairman Paul Kiesow and others said most municipalities use the utility fee concept. Households in Oxford are presently billed $2 a

month for pollution control along with the bill for sanitation, sewer and water services. Commercial properties are charged multiples of the residential storm water fee based on covered space. Wilkinson and others on Jan. 11, 2005, said while no commissioner wanted to levy the storm water fee, the pollution control move was forced on some municipalities by the state without any funding help from Raleigh. Storm water causes chemicals, garbage, grime, oil and soap to flow into the Tar River and Pamlico Sound, along with the storm water from all municipalities in the TarPamlico basin.

the competition with a counteroffer of $73,500 and Faison, who also is an attorney, entered the competition with a counteroffer of $90,000. Cloninger made a counteroffer of $95,000, Faison made a counteroffer of $105,000, Cloninger made a counteroffer of $110,300 and Faison made a counteroffer of $120,000. Southerland re-entered the competition with a counteroffer of $127,000 and Faison made a counteroffer of $140,000.

The Southerland’s Mill Pond site was a former water supply reservoir for the city, with city-owned land across the road from the pond having once been proposed as a site for a wastewater treatment plant. Henderson’s water supply presently comes from the John H. Kerr Reservoir and Henderson’s water reclamation facility is off N.C. 39 north of Interstate 85.

Board members claimed final say-so on the building’s fate after the doors shut. Students will be moving from Clark Street over to the new elementary school on Garrett Road when it opens for business next August. At the request of charter school officials, a meeting

of the City of Henderson’s Land Planning Committee was cancelled recently. The purpose of the meeting would have been to try to lease city property at William and Montgomery streets. It was the site of the old Vance Hotel.

Contact the writer at bwest@ hendersondispatch.com.

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Est. Aug. 12, 1914 304 S. Chestnut St. P.O. Box 908 Henderson, N.C. 27536

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VANCE, from page one

Wilmington 49/41

Regional Cities Today

STORM WATER, from page one

BIDDING, from page one

Yesterday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.00" Month to date . . . . . . . . . . . .4.21" Normal month to date . . . . .1.58" Year to date . . . . . . . . . . . . .38.55" Normal year to date . . . . . .41.59"

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The Daily Dispatch

Friday, December 18, 2009

Deaths Daisy R. Hunt HENDERSON — Daisy Ross Hunt, age 77, a resident of 3590 Cameron Drive, died Thursday, December 17, 2009, at Duke Medical Center. Born on April 18, 1932, in Vance County, she was the daughter of the late Alice Ellington Ross. Mrs. Hunt was the owner and operator of the former Village Florist and was a member of First

Robert L. Williamson BULLOCK — Mr. Robert Lee “Bobby” Williamson, 63, died Thursday, December 17, 2009 at Rex Hospital. The son of Henry Fuller and Thelma Cash Williamson, Bobby was a graduate of J.F. Webb High School with the Class of 1964. His working career started at Byrd’s Grocery (now Lowe’s Foods) and he then owned and operated Williamson Grocery in Bullock for 11 years. The last several years he ran “Bobby’s Restaurant” at Thorndale Country Club in Oxford. He was a member of Grassy Creek Baptist Church. Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in the chapel at Watkins Cooper

Baptist Church. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday in the J.M. White Funeral Home Chapel by Dr. Paul A. Baxley. She is survived by three sons, Robert Stephen Hunt of Keaau, Hawaii, Phillip Sherrill Hunt and wife, Joni, of Sophia N.C., and William Harris “Bill” Hunt and wife, Lisa, of Wake Forest; two grandchildren, Zachary Phillip Hunt and Jessica Ryan Hunt;

two step-grandchildren, John Thomas Wall and Jacob Lawson Wall. The family will receive friends Sunday immediately following the service at J.M. White Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 75, Henderson N.C., 27536. Arrangements are by J.M. White Funeral Home.

Lyon Funeral Home with the Rev. Johnny Armstrong officiating. Burial will be private. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 26 years, Cheryl Yousik Williamson. Also surviving are his daughter, Tina W. Riggan of Oxford; son and daughter-in-law, Rodney and Tammy Williamson of Bullock; four grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Ann Weary of Bullock. The family will receive friends prior to the service, starting at 1 p.m. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at “http://www. wclfh.com”. Please consider contributions to the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Exec. Blvd. Ste. 1010, Rockville, Md. 20852.

Jerry E. Johnson

Paid Obituary

HUGHES, from page one Hughes found out. The police account wasn’t correct, according to Hughes, who said recently that his former wife, Heather, wasn’t involved in the situation. Hughes contended that the e-mail he sent threatened to tell Railnear’s wife if he didn’t stop having an affair. The Commissioner described the woman as a friend he was living with for three days a week last summer at Emerald Isle. According to Hughes, he had information that the misdemeanor charge was an effort by the woman and Railnear to keep him from joining the army and going to OCS. Hughes said he didn’t violate the related state law which requires a physical threat to be repeated a number of times. He didn’t threaten to physically harm Railnear,

Hughes added. On Dec. 3, the Democrat announced he will file for re-election to the seat he wrested from Tommy Hester when he was the incumbent in 2006. Shortly after learning of his defeat three years ago, Hester vowed in a telephone interview that he would never run for political office again. Hester, a Republican, disclosed Dec. 3 that he will oppose Hughes in next year’s election contest. Barron Stainback said on Dec. 4 that he is a friend of Hughes, who would be cleared of the criminal charge. That would allow Hughes to join the army, according to Stainback, who said he would then represent the Democratic Party in the race.

Paid Obituary

OXFORD — Jerry E. Johnson, 76, a resident of Oxford, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, in Wake Med in Raleigh. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by GentryNewell and Vaughan Funeral Home.

M. Edgar Faulkner Jr. HENDERSON — Marvin Edgar Faulkner Jr., age 84, a resident of 2109 Rock Mill Road, died Wednesday, December 16, 2009, in a local nursing home. Born in Vance County on January 6, 1925, he was the son of the late Marvin Edgar Faulkner Sr. and Lillian Minor Faulkner. Mr. Faulkner was a veteran of the United States Army serving during World War II. He was a self-employed boilermaker and a member of Zion United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in the J.M. White Funeral Home Chapel by the Rev. Frank Sossamon. Burial will follow in Sunset Gardens. In case of bad weather, alternative

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Goodson. He was preceded in death by one son, Beverly Ray Faulkner; and one brother, Ronald Faulkner. The family will receive friends today from 7 until 8:30 p.m. at J.M. White Funeral Home. At other times they will be at the home at 2109 Rock Mill Road. Serving as active pallbearers will be Don Faulkner, Mark Faulkner, Donnie Faulkner, Gene Richardson, Jerry Stallings, Glenn Norwood, Wayne Martin, and Thomas Lassiter. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, 400 Oberlin Road, Suite 208, Raleigh, N.C. 27605. Arrangements are by J.M. White Funeral Home.

funeral services and visitation will be Monday at 2 p.m. in the J.M. White Funeral Home Chapel with visitation prior to the service from 12:30 p.m. until 1:50 p.m. For information, please call J.M. White Funeral Home at 438-5139. He is survived by his wife, Edna Martin Faulkner, of the home; one daughter, Melba F. Seneff and husband, Russell, of Smith Mountain Lake, Va.; two sons, Reginald Faulkner and wife, Sandra, and Alan D. Faulkner and wife, Melissa, all of Henderson, N.C.; two brothers, D. Gray Faulkner of Henderson and Elvin James Faulkner of Burlington; six grandchildren, Sandra F. Lawhorne, Kenneth Roach, Kalee Seneff, Trey Seneff, Coy Seneff, and Zade Faulkner; and two great-grandchildren, Morgan Lawhorne and James

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CSCT-97655 Henderson Daily Dispatch-6.625x15-4C-12.18

The Daily Dispatch

Business & Farm

Credit cardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest trick: Interest rate 79.9 percent

Area

A DAY ON WALL STREET

Dow Jones industrials

10,000 8,000 A

Pct. change from previous: -1.27%

High 10,440.06

2,400

Nasdaq composite

2,200 2,000 1,800 1,600

-26.86 A

Pct. change from previous: -1.22%

High 2,198.51

Dec. 17, 2009

-13.10 A

Pct. change from previous: -1.18%

In this undated image provided by Synovate, a marketing firm that tracks credit card mailings, a portion of a mailing for a pre-approved card offer from First Premier Bank sent in October 2009 is shown.

Bloated APR skirts new regulations curbing abuses By CANDICE CHOI AP Personal Finance Writer

NEW YORK â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no mistake. This credit cardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest rate is 79.9 percent. The bloated APR is how First Premier Bank, a subprime credit card issuer, is skirting new regulations intended to curb abusive practices in the industry. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a strategy other subprime card issuers could start adopting to get around the new rules. Typically, the First Premier card comes with a minimum of $256 in fees in the first year for a credit line of $250. Starting in February, however, a new law will cap such fees at 25 percent of a cardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s credit line. In a recent mailing for a preapproved card, First Premier lowers fees to just that limit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; $75 in the first year for a credit line of $300. But the new law doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t set a cap on interest rates. Hence the 79.9 APR, up from the previous 9.9 percent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the highest on the market. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the highest weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve ever seen,â&#x20AC;? said Anuj Shahani, an analyst with Synovate, a research firm that tracks credit card mailings. The terms are eyebrow raising, but First Premier targets people with bad credit who likely canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get approved for cards elsewhere. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a group that tends to lean

heavily on credit, too, meaning theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll likely incur steep financing charges. So for a $300 balance, a cardholder would pay $20 a month in interest. First Premier said the 79.9 APR offer is a test and that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too early to tell whether it will be continued, according to an e-mailed statement. To comply with the new law, the bank said it will no longer offer the card that has $256 in first-year fees as of Feb. 21, 2010. However, customers will still be able to use their existing cards. In a mailing sent to prospective customers in October with the revamped terms, First Premier writes â&#x20AC;&#x153;...you might have less-thanperfect credit and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re OK with that.â&#x20AC;? The letter notes that an online application or phone call is still required, but guarantees a 60-second status confirmation. The letter also states there are no hidden fees that arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t disclosed in the attached form. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where the 79.9 percent interest rate and $75 annual fee are listed. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also $29 penalty if you pay late or go over your credit limit. The credit limit is $300. The bank did not say how many people were offered the 79.9 APR card, but noted that it needed to â&#x20AC;&#x153;price our product based on the risk associated with this market.â&#x20AC;? Even if First Premier doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stick with the 79.9

APR, it will likely hike rates considerably from the current 9.9 percent to offset the lower fees, said Shahani of Synovate. The revamped terms may not be the only changes; First Premier also appears to be moving away from the riskiest borrowers. The bank typically mails offers to subprime households, meaning those with credit scores below 700. In the third quarter, however, 84 percent of its offers were sent to subprime households, down from 91 percent the same period last year, according to Synovate. First Premier could be cleaning up its credit card portfolio since the new regulations will limit its ability to raise interest rates. That could mean First Premier wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t issue cards as liberally to those with bad credit. As harsh as First Premierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terms seem, that could be a blow to those who rely on the card, said Odysseas Papadimitriou, CEO of CardHub.com. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even when the cost of credit is astronomical, for people in true emergencies, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much better than not having access to credit,â&#x20AC;? said Papadimitriou. Until Feb. 21, First Premier is still offering its even-higher-fee card online. So the price for credit the bank charges is at least $256 in first-year fees.

Outdoor theatre gets national mention By DISPATCH STAFF

A local business got a mention in the January 2010 issue of Car and Driver magazine. The magazine named Raleigh in a ranking of the 10 Best Driversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Cities in America and reported that: â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre in nearby Henderson, get the drive in experience of '50s American lore. See the latest family fare in a tailgating atmosphere, with the sound pumped through your car radio.â&#x20AC;?

Calling Raleigh â&#x20AC;&#x153;the seat of NASCAR,â&#x20AC;? the magazine said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sure, Raleigh is billed as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the new Silicon valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and boasts multiple universities in its â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Research Triangle,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also in the fatty heart of NASCAR country, less than 100 miles from Virginia International Raceway, Rockingham, and Level Cross, birthplace of the King, Richard Petty.â&#x20AC;? Other cities included in the listing are Honolulu, Hawaii, Santa Barbara, Calif., Mill Valley, Calif, Phoenix, Ariz., Colorado

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High 1,106.35

1,400

Low 2,178.05

Standard & Poorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500

AP Photo/Synovate

7,000

Low 10,307.96

Dec. 17, 2009

1,096.08

Listed below are representative interdealer quotations at approximately 4 p.m. Thursday from the National Association of Securities Dealers. Prices do not include retail mark-up, mark-down or commission.

9,000

-132.86

2,180.05

Stocks

11,000

Dec. 17, 2009

10,308.26

Friday, December 18, 2009

1,200 1,100 1,000 900 800 700 600

Low 1,095.88

SOURCE: SunGard

MARKET ROUNDUP 121709: Market urrencies etals charts show Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq; stand-alone; 2c x 4 1/2 inches; 96 mm x 114 mm; staff NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Key currency ex Aluminum - $1.0165 per lb., London Metal Editors: 5:25:04 PM EST change rates XThursday:All figures as of: Exch. close; Coppermay -$3.1501 Cathode full plate, LME. NOTE: Figures reflect market fluctuations after not match other AP content Dollar vs: ExchgRate PvsDay Copper $3.1105 N.Y. Merc spot Thu. Yen 89.96 89.90 Lead - $2365.00 metric ton, London Metal Euro $1.4349 $1.4516 Exch. Pound $1.6156 $1.6310 Zinc - $1.0752 per lb., London Metal Exch. Swiss franc 1.0466 1.0397 Gold - $1117.00 Handy & Harman (only Canadian dollar 1.0702 1.0630 daily quote). Mexican peso 12.9620 12.7080 Gold - $1106.80 troy oz., NY Merc spot Thu. Metal Price PvsDay Silver - $17.160 Handy & Harman (only NY Merc Gold $1106.80 $1135.50 daily quote). Silver - $17.180 troy oz., N.Y. Merc spot NY HSBC Bank US $1103.00 $1132.00 NY Merc Silver $17.180 $17.679Â Thu. Platinum -$1440.00 troy oz., N.Y. (contract). Nonferrous Platinum -$1425.90 troy oz., N.Y. Merc spot NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Spot nonferrous metal Thu. n.q.-not quoted, n.a.-not available r-revised prices Thursday:

& M

ACS ATT Ball Corp. BankAmerica BB&T Coca-Cola CVS Duke Energy Exxon Ford General Elec. Home Depot IBM Johnson & Johnson Kennametal Krispy Kreme Louisiana Pacific Lowes Lucent Tech. Pepsico Phillip Morris Procter & Gamble Progress Energy RF Micro Dev Royal Bk Can RJR Tobacco Revlon Sprint Sun Trust Universal Verizon Comm. Vulcan Wal-Mart Wells Fargo Wendyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Establis Delhaize

GHS wins excellence award in marketing of health care OXFORD â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Granville Health System (GHS) has been recognized by Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Healthcare Public Relations & Marketing Society (CHPRMS) for excellence in health care marketing. GHS received a Wallie Award at the CHPRMS annual fall conference. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program was held in Asheville. Honored for advertising excellence, GHS was awarded a bronze award for the health systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Hospitalâ&#x20AC;? campaign, in the area of mixed media, under $400,000,000 hospitals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are pleased that our marketing teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to excellence has been recognized by this achievement,â&#x20AC;? said Cristina Rigsbee Blalock, Senior Director of Ambulatory Services. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our campaign has made a positive impact while supporting the GHS mission of providing quality health care to our community.â&#x20AC;? The Wallie Awards are presented annually, recognizing excellence in health care public relations and marketing. Members of the society compete in

more than 30 categories, and a panel of health care, advertising and graphic design professionals selects the winners. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is an honor to be recognized by leaders in the health care marketing industry,â&#x20AC;? said Scott Thomas, GHS Director of Marketing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are proud of our work and appreciate the support from our community in making this campaign a success.â&#x20AC;? In addition to the Wallie Award, GHSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Hospitalâ&#x20AC;? campaign was awarded two Aster awards in April

by Marketing Healthcare Today, a national health care marketing magazine. GHS received a gold award for magazine advertisement for a service lineâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;behavioral health. GHS was also awarded the bronze for excellence in a magazine advertising series. In addition to featuring GHS medical staff and employees of the health system, the campaign includes members of the community and partner organizations, such as Granville County Habitat for Humanity.

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The Daily Dispatch

VANCE COUNTY SHERIFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S OFFICE Arrests â&#x20AC;˘ John Lenny Abbott, 52, of 1416 Southerland Mill Road was arrested Dec. 15. Felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to inflict serious injury with intent to kill. Felony possession of a firearm by a felon. Secured bond was set at $25,000. Court date Jan. 11. â&#x20AC;˘ Richard Collier Patton, 46, of 859 Dr. Fince Road was arrested Dec. 15. Misdemeanor failure to appear. Secured bond was set at $1,000. Court date Jan. 11. â&#x20AC;˘ Randy Johnson, 25, of 119 Daisy lane was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 15. Misdemeanor failure to appear. Secured bond was set at $1,200. Court date Jan. 19. â&#x20AC;˘ Darrell Colbroth, 51, of 1280 Bearpond Road was arrested Dec. 15. Misdemeanor violation of a court order. Secured bond was set at $800. Court date Jan. 14. â&#x20AC;˘ Vicky Stevenson Wilson, 48, of 1290 Railroad St. was served with a criminal summons on Dec. 14. Misdemeanor second degree trespassing. No bond listed. No court date listed. â&#x20AC;˘ Christopher D. Watkins, 36, of 3413 Asgar Court, Raleigh, was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 14. Misdemeanor failure to appear on charges of driving while license revoked and speeding. Unsecured bond was set at $1,000. Court date Jan. 14. â&#x20AC;˘ Ayanna Jones, 23, of 1345 N. Chavis Road was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 14. Misdemeanor failure to appear on charge of vioilation of noise ordinance. Secured bond was set at $200. Court date Jan. 14. â&#x20AC;˘ Bryan Hargrove, 46, of 412 Oak St. was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 14. Nonsupport. Failure to appear on charge of driving while license revoked. Secured bond was set at $6,000. Court date Dec. 30. â&#x20AC;˘ Elsmere Wayne Wilbourn, 41, of 119 Renn Lane was arrested Dec. 14. Felony larceny of a motor vehicle. Unsecured bond was set at $25,000. Court date Jan. 11. â&#x20AC;˘ Jonathan Branch, 31, of 706 S. Carolina Ave. was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 14. Misdemeanor child support. Cash bond was set at $400. Court date Dec. 30. â&#x20AC;˘ Bryon Alex Hayes, 41, of 16 Fox Trail was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 14. Misdemeanor failure to appear on child support charge. Cash bond was set at $200. Court date was Dec 16. â&#x20AC;˘ Deborah Murphy, 43, of 318 Foxfire drive was arrested Dec. 12. Misdemeanor simple assault. Unsecured bond was set at $1,000. Court date Dec. 31. â&#x20AC;˘ Frankie Jones, 28, of 291 Kirby lane was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 16. Misdemeanor child support. Cash

bond was set at $110. Court date Dec. 30. â&#x20AC;˘ Mark Williamson, 29, of 224 Flanagan Road was arrested Dec. 16. Misdemeanor communicating threats. Unsecured bond was set at $500. Court date Dec. 31. â&#x20AC;˘ Tamatha kristine Weaver, 22, of 482 Sycamore Lane was arrested Dec. 16. Misdemeanor second degree trespassing. Unsecured bond was set at $500. Court date Dec. 31. â&#x20AC;˘ Mary Williams Talley, 52, of 42 N.C. 39 Loop Road Lot 12 was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 16. Misdemeanor no operatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license. Secured bond was set at $600. Court date Jan. 18. â&#x20AC;˘ James Henry Williams, 27, of 4820 Warrenton Road was arrested Dec. 16. Felony possession of stolen goods. Secured bond was set at $1,500. Court date Jan. 11.

N.C. appeals court says two inmates should go free Attorney General petitioning Supreme Court to block release planned for tonight By MIKE BAKER Associated Press Writer

RALEIGH â&#x20AC;&#x201D; North Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appeals court denied the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attempt to block the release of two convicted murderers Thursday, dealing yet another legal blow to Gov. Beverly Perdueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effort to keep dozens of violent criminals behind bars. The court rejected a request from state attorneys to keep inmates Alford Jones and Faye Brown behind bars. The decision is set to become effective on tonight, meaning the inmates would go free then unless the state Supreme Court intervenes. The appeals court gave no explanation in

Larceny Arrests

Larceny

â&#x20AC;˘ Carlos Dupree Powell, 26, of 706 Goods Ferry Road was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 15. Misdemeanor failure to appear. Bond was set at $200. No court date listed. â&#x20AC;˘ Tyesha Raquel Davis, 21, of 327 Murphy Road was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 15. Misdmeanor failure to appear. Bond was set at $100. Court date Jan. 28. â&#x20AC;˘ Martez Hargrove, 30, of 788 N. Chestnut St. was served with a citation on Dec. 15. Misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia. Court date Feb. 8. â&#x20AC;˘ Shronda Hargrove, 22, of 250 Booth Ave. was served with a criminal summons on Dec. 16. Misdemeanor fail to return rental property. Court date Jan. 26. â&#x20AC;˘ Amy Marie Powell, 34, of 1008 Beacon Ave. was served with an order for arrest on Dec. 16. Misdemeanor failure to appear. Secured bond was set at $1,000. Court date Jan. 26. â&#x20AC;˘ Dustin Abbott, 24, of 363 Eaves Road was served with a citation on Dec. 16. Misdemeanor larceny. No bond. Court date Jan. 25. â&#x20AC;˘ Amy Ree Nichols, 32, of 357 Sea Oats Trail, Southern Shore, was arrested Dec. 16. Misdemeanor shoplifting. Secured bond was set at $300. Court date Jan. 28.

â&#x20AC;˘ Tony Norwood, 47, reported Dec. 15 the theft from 327 Davis St. of 2 beige carpets valued at $400, 2 carpet pads valued at $100 and 10 concrete pavers alued at $50. â&#x20AC;˘ Jacquelyn Terry, 39, of 558 McBorne St. reported Dec. 15 the theft from the residence of the following items and their values: Playstation II game system, $200, X-Box 360 game system, $200; 6 Playstation video games, $45; and 2 X-Box video games, $45.

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its decision. A spokeswoman for North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper said his office is preparing petitions to send to the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest court. Thomas Bennett, executive director of the North Carolina Victim Assistance Network, said the inmates should not be released because of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;loopholeâ&#x20AC;? in the law. But he acknowledged the state may have a losing legal battle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the sake of the victims, I hope that this (Supreme Court) petition succeeds,â&#x20AC;? Bennett said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of hurt and anger and bitterness out there.â&#x20AC;? Perdue said earlier in the week she was disgusted with the legal system after a judge ordered the inmates released because of sentence-reduction credits. The inmates were sentenced to life under a 1970s law that defined the term as only 80 years long. If the sentence-reduction credits

are applied to the inmates, some two dozen of them could be immediately set free. Dozens more could qualify for release in the months to come. The appeals court gave state attorneys some temporary relief earlier this week, halting the case on Monday just an hour before the inmates were ordered for release. State lawyers had argued that the credits awarded to Jones and Brown were to be used for parole eligibility and other matters. They also said the Correction Department has never given sentencereduction credits to inmates with life sentences. An attorney for the inmates declined to comment on the ruling. Jones was convicted of killing William B. Turner Sr., who was shot in the chest during an attempted robbery in January 1975. Brown was sentenced for her role in the 1975 shooting death of a state trooper during a bank robbery.

HENDERSON POLICE DEPARTMENT

â&#x20AC;˘ William Andre Hodge, 27, of 325 Vance Academy Road Apt. G reported Dec. 15 the theft from 160 S. Vance Academy Road of 2 gold Cuban link bracelets valued at $100 each and 3-piece furniture set, 27-inch Samsung TV, dishes and washer and dryer, no values listed. â&#x20AC;˘ Daniel Castro, 43, of 266 Pete Abbott Road reported Dec. 13 the theft from the residence of a 72-inch flat screen TV valued at $2,500. â&#x20AC;˘ Linda Teal, 62, of 2927 Faulkner Town Road reported Dec. 8 the theft from the residence of a Ruger .45-caliber revolver valued at $800. â&#x20AC;˘ Deaven Latesha Harris, 30, of 83 Dodi Lane reported Dec. 16 the theft from the residence of the following items and their values: Toshiba laptop computer, $1,600; E machine desktop computer, $2,000; 2 GE home phones, $75; Nintendo/64 game console, $100; 12 Nintendo video games, $100; V Smile, $60; 30 assorted DVDs, $600; Igloo cube cooler, $75; Blackberry cell phone, $200; Kyocera cell phone, $100; 2 Nintendo/D S game consoles, $320; and a loaf of bread, $2.50. â&#x20AC;˘ Terrance Bowden, 26, of 737 Manson Axtel Road, Manson, reported Dec. 16 the theft from a vehicle of 5 DVDs valued at $100; 3 jackets valued at $75; a bag of clothes, $100; hair clipper, $50; and 2 black 8-foot tarps, $60.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Keyoka Shawnta Cannady, 30, of 788 N. Chestnut St. reported Dec. 15 the theft from the residence of a Nintendo/ Wii video game console valued at $250, Sony Playstation video game console valued at $300 and assorted video games valued at $1,200. â&#x20AC;˘ Johnny Waverly, 21, of 1465 Newton Dairy Road Lot 54 reported Dec. 16 the theft from a vehicle of a Boss CD player valued at $300 and Tom Tom GPS valued at $100. Damage to a driver side window estimated at $100.

â&#x20AC;˘ Rebecca McIntyre, 28, of 39 Crowder Road, Castalia, reported Dec. 14 the theft from a vehicle of 4 center wheel caps valued at $300. â&#x20AC;˘ Harry Wertz, 73, of 416 Oak St. reported Dec. 16 the theft from a vehicle of an AM/FM/CD player valued at $100. â&#x20AC;˘ The Rogers Group, 4783 Raleigh Road, reported Dec. 16 the theft from 530 Horner St. of a heating and air unit valued at $1,300; stove valued at $400; and refrigerator valued at $300. Damage to a door frame estimated at $300.

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The Daily Dispatch

News Briefs Sex offender law unconstitutional PITTSBORO (AP) — A judge has declared a North Carolina law that limits sex offenders’ ability to worship unconstitutional. Superior Court Judge Allen Baddour ruled on Thursday that two parts of a North Carolina general statute aimed at protecting children from child molesters are unconstitutionally vague and unconstitutionally overbroad. Baddour said in his opinion the statues infringe on the constitutionally protected right to worship. The decision comes after authorities arrested registered sex offender James Nichols in March for attending a Baptist church outside of Raleigh because the church provided on-premise childcare. The statute says offenders must stay 300 feet away from any area intended for the use, care of supervision of minors and any place where minors gather for regularly scheduled events.

Body of Marine discovered at base CAMP LEJEUNE (AP) — Authorities say the body of a

Marine has been found at a North Carolina base. A statement from Camp Lejeune on Thursday said the unidentified Marine’s body was discovered Wednesday afternoon. Officials said the body was found between two main roads north of the Hadnot Point area of the massive 246-square-mile base. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is looking into the case. Officials could not offer any details about the cause of death because of the investigation. The victim’s name was not released because the family is still being notified.

Killer chooses electrocution COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A death row inmate has ended his appeals and asked South Carolina to execute him in the electric chair. Prison officials Thursday scheduled Quincy Allen’s death for Jan. 8, 2010. Allen killed four people across South Carolina and North Carolina in the summer of 2002. Allen’s decision to die came just two weeks after he Hosta Ice Plant triedMrstoHuffescape from death Lantana Purple Cone Flower row with cop killer Mikal Salvia Hundreds Choose from! Authorities say Deento Mahdi.

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Woman accused of hiding corpse appears in court

the pair stabbed a guard in a fenced-in recreation yard but were quickly caught. South Carolina allows inmates to choose between lethal injection and electrocuBy KEVIN MAURER tion. The state has executed Associated Press Writer two inmates in 2009. It would be the second WILMINGTON — As a electrocution in the U.S. in two months. A Virginia killer woman accused of hiding her elderly mother’s corpse chose to die in that state’s for seven months had her electric chair in November. first court appearance Man who sold Thursday, a snacks killed North Carolina law officer WINSTON-SALEM said the dead (AP) — Authorities say a woman’s 35-year-old man was shot to family had death while selling snacks at continued to Stewart a North Carolina apartment collect her complex. Social Security payments The Winston-Salem after she died. Journal reports Thursday Amy Stewart asked for that Cirilo Laredo Avila of a court-appointed defense Winston-Salem was found attorney when she apdead late Wednesday in the peared before a district back of his truck. court judge in Wilmington. Winston-Salem Police The 47-year-old did Capt. David Clayton says not enter a plea. She was Avila sold snacks from his charged Wednesday with truck for El Jarocho. concealing a dead body, Another man was taken a felony. Stewart posted to a local hospital with a gunshot wound. Police have bond and was released not yet identified him. He is from jail. The sheriff’s office anexpected to recover. ticipates filing additional Investigators are trying charges related to fraud, to determine if the two knew New Hanover County each other. Clayton said robsheriff’s deputy Charles bery is a possible motive.

Smith said. He said Blanche Matilda Roth’s family had continued to collect her Social Security payments after her death and authorities are investigating. Police responded to the family’s home Tuesday after receiving a 911 call and found the body of the 87-year-old Roth in a bedroom. Police estimate that Roth, who was Stewart’s mother, died in May. In the 911 recording an unidentified male caller told an operator, “We have an ... elderly lady in the house who has died and we need her taken to the morgue.”

When asked how long ago the woman had passed away, the caller replied, “I don’t know, I’m going to say a month.” The caller confirmed that the woman had died a month ago and was still in the house. “She just died in the bed. She’s been bedridden for a number of days, or weeks,” the caller explained. The recording was released Thursday by the New Hanover County Public Safety Communications Center. Stewart declined to comment on the charges. Neighbors were shocked Wednesday to hear of Roth’s death.

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Community News

The Daily Dispatch

Friday, December 18, 2009

Center donates kid’s quilts to Life Line

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

The quilting unit of the Alliance Rehabilitative Care Center donated kid’s quilts that they had made to the Life Line Outreach Center on Raleigh Road on Dec. 11 as part of the center’s mission to give back to the community. The center helps adults with psychiatric disabilities increase their functioning so they can be successful with the least amount of on-going professional intervention. The quilting group has also made donations of quilts to the Vance County Department of Social Services, the Ronald McDonald House in Durham, and Buringi’s House in Vance County.

Butterfly garden to be built with grant Aycock Elementary School has received a $1,000 grant from Walmart Distribution Center to use in its courtyard/outdoor classroom instruction. Kristen Boyd, assistant principal of Aycock Elementary, said the grant funds will be used to purchase a butterfly tower and a butterfly habitat kit so that students in grades pre-kindergarten through second grade can raise their own butterflies. Boyd added the experience will allow the students to learn about the life cycle of butterflies. She noted that these types of studies go along with the science curriculum for students in these grades. The school also plans to purchase a portable greenhouse with the grant money. The greenhouse will be placed in the school’s courtyard, which is undergoing major renovations. Plans call for students to plant their own seeds, cultivate the growth of their plants in the greenhouse, and see flowers bloom in the spring before school dismisses for the summer.

More than 120 parents, youth and community members attended the Granville County Teen Court, the first of its kind for Judicial Districts 9 and 9b.

Granville County holds first teen court session “Oyez! Oyez! Oyez! This honorable court for the county of Granville is now open and sitting for the dispatch of its business.” That’s how teen bailiff Casey West called the first teen court session in Granville County to order on Nov. 24. More than 120 parents, youth and community members attended the court, also the first of its kind for Judicial Districts 9 and 9b. Teen jurors and attorneys arrived at 5:15 p.m. The Granville County middle and high school students had a very important task as they heard the first cases presented in Granville County Teen Court. The crimes — and the consequences — were real: a high school student charged with having a weapon on campus, and a middle-school pupil who confessed he’d hit another boy in a disagreement. In contrast to traditional court proceedings where judges or juries determine guilt, the accused in teen court, usually grades 6-12, must admit their wrongdoing. They come to court prepared to accept punishments decided by a jury of their

peers. Jurors and defendants are not allowed to know each other and do not attend the same schools. Judge Quon Bridges opened the first teen court session by swearing in approximately 60 teen volunteers. Bridges has worked with the program from the beginning and assisted in training many of the youth who were sworn in as volunteers. He impressed upon them the importance of their roles as part of the teen court system and their commitment to serve the defendants fairly and impartially. Bridges started the teen court hearing by explaining the guidelines and emphasizing the importance of confidentiality. All participants and observers were required to sign a confidentiality form before entering court. He then proceeded to have everyone take an oath of confidentiality. Sarah Newton served as clerk of court for the hearing and called the first case. For two hours, the defense and prosecution presented their cases and questioned the defendants on the circumstances that brought them to

court. Defense attorneys for the evening included Claudia Willett, Patric Mason, Keny Murillo, Chelsea Lee and Vania Jones. Prosecution attorneys were Judia Watson, Joshua Foreman, Katelin Humphries, Thomas Franklin and Victoria McAlister. These youth attorneys were responsible for their opening and closing statements and questioning. The youth attorneys were assisted by visiting attorney Meredith Vivona from Arizona. After presenting their cases, it was up to the 12 jurors on each case to decide what penalties to impose on the young offenders. A diversionary justice program run by teens for teens, the court offers first-time

offenders a chance to learn from their mistakes without facing the high cost of juvenile court and a record of delinquency. Once their sanctions are decided, teens have 90 days to fulfill the requirements of their sentences. If they do, there are no charges on their criminal record. If not, charges move forward to prosecution. N.C. Cooperative Extension began developing its teen court program in August of this year after looking at programs in surrounding counties. Teen Court Coordinator Charissa Puryear believes that the program will be a great asset to the youth of Granville County. “Teen Court is a win-win situation for everyone,” Puryear

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said. “This program offers defendants an opportunity to take responsibility. There is a lower recidivism rate for participants, there is a lower cost for teen court as opposed to the juvenile court system, and it allows the teen volunteers an opportunity to take an active role in reducing the crimes in their schools and community.” Granville County Teen Court will be held the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. For more information, contact Puryear at (919) 6031350 or at charissa_puryear@ ncsu.edu.

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Mail stolen from Lewis area boxes By DISPATCH STAFF

The Granville County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department needs help finding the person or persons who removed mail from several mailboxes in the Lewis community north of Oxford, as well as along U.S. 15 South. And a bag of mail, appearing to have been dumped, was discovered off Smith Road southwest of Oxford. Some of the pieces of mail were addressed to residents in the Lewis community and along U.S. 15. Anyone with any information is urged to phone the Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department at (919) 693-3213 or Crime Stoppers (919) 693-3100. Crime Stoppers will pay $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for this crime. Send comments to news@ hendersondispatch.com.

Local & Nation

Friday, December 18, 2009

News Briefs Colo. seizes 100 starving sled dogs; six fond dead HARTSEL, Colo. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; About 100 starving sled dogs have been seized from a racing business in Colorado. Coloradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s state veterinarian says an anonymous tip led authorities to Pawsatrack Racing Sled Dogs in the Park County town of Hartsel, about 70 miles southwest of Denver. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phone number isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t listed. Authorities say they found six dead husky-type dogs and seized 30 starving dogs immediately. On Thursday, animal protection authorities took the remaining 70 dogs. Dr. Keith Roehr, the state vet, says the dogs were malnourished and that one dog has since died. He says the dogs were all crossbreeds of Alaskan descent used in

sled racing. Park County sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s officials were investigating the dogsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; owners for possible animal neglect charges, but as of Thursday afternoon no one had been charged.

S.C. teen gets 10 years, says sorry for attack plot FLORENCE, S.C. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A South Carolina teen has been sentenced to 10 years in prison and says heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sorry for scaring people with a plot to blow up his high school. Nineteen-year-old Ryan Schallenberger did not give a reason Thursday for why he made the written and recorded plans that referred to committing â&#x20AC;&#x153;Columbine II.â&#x20AC;? The plans were uncovered last April when his parents intercepted a package of ammonium nitrate, which can be an ingredient in homemade

explosives. U.S. District Judge R. Bryan Harwell said the teen needed to go to prison because his actions were serious, but gave him credit for his clean record. The judge also noted Schallenberger was diagnosed with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The teenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorneys have attributed the plans to his mental illness.

Ill. library receives vinyl record, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 47 years late EAST PEORIA, Ill. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t blame the person who recently returned an old vinyl record to an Illinois library for slipping quickly out the door. The record was a little late. OK, 47-seven years late. Fondulac District Library Director Amy Falasz-Peterson says the album by 1950s pop

singer Julius La Rosa was checked out on Feb. 12, 1962 and was returned this month. She says a person told library officials that they found the record among the belongings of a family member who had died. That person then left the library in East Peoria. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been so long since the record was checked out that the library doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know who the scofflaw was, but the fine would be $871.90.

Rumsfeld buys Montana ranch BUTTE, Mont. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Former U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld and his wife have purchased a 940-acre ranch on the Big Hole River in Montanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Madison County, his spokesman confirmed Thursday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mrs. (Joyce) Rumsfeld was born in Montana, she has relatives in the

state and the Rumsfelds have always thought very well of the state,â&#x20AC;? spokesman Keith Urbahn told The Montana Standard Thursday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They plan to spend some time out there to enjoy it.â&#x20AC;? The property south of Twin Bridges includes hayfields, wetlands and river frontage. Urbahn said the Rumsfelds have no plans to develop the property. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He enjoys outdoor sports, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get out there on the river from time to time and fish it,â&#x20AC;? he said. Rumsfeld, 77, served four terms in Congress from Illinois in 1963-69, was a member of President Richard Nixonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabinet and served as defense secretary during the Ford Administration. He was also defense secretary for President George W. Bush for six years, overseeing the military invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. He also worked many years in private business.

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Opinion

The Daily Dispatch

Friday, December 18, 2009

Letters to the Editor X

XII I

II III

VIII VII VI

IV V

X IX

XII

VII

Excellent (public and customer) service

II III

VIII

Editorial Board: James Edwards, Publisher

To the editor:

jedwards@hendersondispatch.com

Don Dulin, News Editor ddulin@hendersondispatch.com

304 S. Chestnut St./P.O. Box 908 Henderson, N.C. 27536 PHONE: 436-2700/FAX: 430-0125

Daily Meditation And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David [are] fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon [are] fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ [are] fourteen generations. Matthew 1:13-17

Our Opinion

Answering shelter call With the hurdle cleared for a special use permit to put an emergency shelter for homeless men at First Presbyterian Church, the group organizing the effort is issuing a call for additional volunteers as it sets its sights on selecting an opening date. This ambitious project undertaken by the Henderson-Vance Ministers Community Partnership provides an excellent opportunity for churches, civic organizations and individuals to work together to care for the less fortunate in our community. Supplies have been coming in. Cots have been donated. Laundry and linen services have been arranged. Security arrangements have been made with police. Plans are shaping up for the logistics of the operation: how many can be sheltered, operation during the cold weather months, daily hours, etc. Organizers say they’re trying to keep it simple: Any man who is homeless, who registers between 5:30-7 p.m. to stay that night, and who is willing to abide by the shelter’s rules will be able to enter. Financial contributions have been made by many in the community, although the partnership would certainly accept more money for the cause. Additional volunteers would really make the difference, it appears. “We already have a core group of volunteers who have been trained to staff the shelter during the overnight hours, but we can certainly use more volunteers,” said the Rev. Doug Addington, vice chairman of the partnership and pastor of West Hills Presbyterian Church. “We welcome you, your church, or community organization to volunteer as overnight staff, provide meals, or assist with other tasks related to the shelter’s operation,” he said. Meals will be prepared off-site and brought in to the men who are seeking shelter for the night. In these final planning stages, the Shelter Committee is working with the Vance County Office of Planning and Development on code compliance issues as related to minor renovations to the church where the shelter will be located. Once those issues are resolved, Addington said, an opening date will be announced. Through his job as housing coordinator for the Five County Mental Health Authority, Joel Rice, who also serves as the chairman of the Shelter Committee, runs a homeless assistance program with funds to put people in housing. It’s his desire that this new local shelter program will be able to transition a homeless man into receiving services and living in permanent housing. The Rev. Paul Baxley, pastor of First Baptist Church and chairman of the partnership, has said, “The churches of our community — across racial, economic and denominational lines — feel that we have a responsibility given us in Scriptures to provide shelter for those who have no place to sleep.” The nearest shelter for men is in Granville County, organizers have said, and it can only house six men. There is a safe haven locally for women and children who are the victims of domestic violence. “If you’re male and homeless — no shelter,” Baxley has said. Can you answer the call? Is your church or civic organization involved? To volunteer, make a financial contribution or donate supplies, contact the Shelter Committee Chairman Joel Rice at (252) 430-3073. Thanks go to this committee, the partnership, the churches, the volunteers and city government for getting this project off the ground. Let’s join together to help finish the task. We have brothers who need our help.

Christmas gift shines from the light on a ‘silent night’ (Note: The Daily Dispatch does not publish a paper on Christmas Day. Since Dec. 25 falls on a Friday this year, Ms. Eaves will not have a column next week.) Christmas Moon arrived for her annual visit early on the holiday morn. Bowing to the still Earth — cloaked by the cold breath of Winter — the sliver of Christmas Moon cascaded over the frame of a newly built house surrounded by barren fields. “Merry Christmas,” said Christmas Moon, illuminating this sacred morn with the accompaniment of a host of star-glittering winks. “Merry Christmas,” answered the infant House, as faint puffs of gray smoke waved greetings from her freshly bricked chimney. “Tell me, young House,” Christmas Moon said to the structure modeling a coat of fresh white paint, “what do you see from within your sturdy walls anew? What do you see of Christmas this very morn?” The excitement of the home’s first Christmas beamed from within her timbers. House answered: “I see a father. I see the young man bent before a fireplace, his muscled arms and agile hands kindling a fire to warm his family on this most special of days.” “Yes. I see this, too,” answered Christmas Moon, smiling on the newborn House. “What else do you see?” “I see a mother, her nimble fingers sewing the last stitch of a doll’s dress.” House continued sharing the early morning scene with Christmas Moon — shoeboxes filled with oranges, apples, raisins and nuts! All goodies the father purchased on the eve of this festive day. Merriment-filled, House turned to her new friend. “Tell me, Christmas Moon,” said the infant House. “What do you see?” Wee-hour darkness already fading as sunrise threatened the silent night, Christmas Moon answered, “I see your youth. As I have seen others in their youth.” Confused, House replied, “I do not understand.” And as Sun broke forth, Christmas Moon whispered, “But one day you will.” Christmas Moon disappeared, and House soon felt the quick steps of excited bare feet as they met her chilled floors. As the seasons passed, House and Christmas Moon reunited early every Christmas morning. And each year, their communion began the same. “Merry Christmas,” said Christmas Moon, her greeting illuminating a few faded shingles. “Merry Christmas,” answered the maturing House to her annual visitor. “Tell me, House,” began Christmas Moon, “what do you see from within your sturdy walls? What do you see of Christmas this very morning?” House answered, “I see a father. His steady hands are building a fire for his visiting children this Christmas morn.” “Yes. I see this, too,” answered Christmas Moon to her friend. “Tell me, growing House, what else do you see?”

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Saddened, House answered, “I see a mother. I see her praying for her son, who is away battling a war in foreign lands. And I see the silent worry on her husband’s face, as he continues to build the fire. “ After a moment of silence, House looked to Christmas Moon. “Tell me, Christmas Moon,” House began. “What do you see?” “I see that you have grown older. Still, I see there are things you have yet to learn.” Confused, Gina House replied, “I do not unEaves derstand.” Daily Dispatch And as the Columnist sun invaded their privacy as he did each holiday, Christmas Moon whispered, “But one day you will.” As the ancient moon disappeared, House felt the quick steps of mother and father, preparing breakfast for their now grown children; those who were present, at least. The Christmas communions of Moon and House continued as each year passed. “Merry Christmas,” said Christmas Moon, illuminating the sacred morn over a weathered House clearly showing her age. “Merry Christmas,” answered House, as faint puffs of grey smoke waved greetings from her chimney, now missing a few bricks. “Tell me, seasoned House,” said Christmas Moon. “What do you witness from within your great walls? What do you see of Christmas this very morning?” Excited by this Christmas, House answered, “I see a grandfather. I see the old man, silverhaired and with soft arms building the fire for his children and his grandchildren.” “Yes. I see, too,” answered Christmas Moon. “What else do you see?” “I see a grandmother. She’s hanging the final ornaments on a Christmas tree. And she’s wrapping boxes, filled with oranges, apples, raisins and nuts. All goodies the grandfather purchased on the eve of this great day.” Satisfied with this most festive of morns, House turned to Christmas Moon. “Tell me, Christmas Moon,” said House. “What is it that you see?” Darkness quickly fading as sunrise, as always, threatened her peace. Christmas Moon answered, “I see you have grown older, as I have seen others grow older. And yet, I see you have more to learn.” Confused, House creaked, “I do not understand.” And as the sun broke forth, Christmas Moon whispered, “But one day you will.” As Christmas Moon disappeared, the old House felt the quick step of excited bare feet as they met her chilled floors. Several years later, Christmas Moon arrived for her annual communion with House, accompanied by glimmering stars who’d long shifted since their first meeting.

But no smoke waved greetings to Christmas Moon. House, her foundation slumped, paint chipped and windowpanes cracked, sat quiet among the barren fields. “House?” called Christmas Moon. But House did not answer. “House,” Christmas Moon called out again. “Tell me, what you have seen? Tell me what you have witnessed within your old walls.” And with that, House began to cry. “I have heard the excited shouts of children, whose bare feet met my chilled floors each Christmas morn. I’ve watched these children grow to become parents themselves, and I’ve felt their children’s bare feet on my chilled floors. I’ve seen boxes of oranges, apples, raisins and nuts – handmade presents and homemade feasts. I’ve seen great trees, adorned with lights and ornaments. And I’ve seen them all come, and I’ve seen them all go. I’ve seen a mother and father turn into a grandmother and grandfather. And I’ve seen them go away, too.” Through tears, House cried, “Tell me, Christmas Moon, tell me what else is there for me to see?” Christmas Moon bent before House, illuminating her torn-shingled-roof, and began: “On this very night, many years ago, I saw a young man, in search of a place to rest his wife, who was soon to deliver their first son. I watched as this infant, the Son of God, lay in a manger of hay, worshiped by kings, His promise of peace heralded by Heaven’s angels. I watched as the infant Son of God grew into a man, a healer, deliverer from evil — our Savior. And I’ve cried, as you are now, to see this Savior suffer crucifixion at the hand of man.” The old House listened. “I have seen loss, just as have you, ancient House. Yet I have seen the resurrection. I have seen love — the greatest love that grants us reason to celebrate life, despite such sadness.” At that moment, House comprehended the meaning of this great life – she finally understood Christmas Moon. And as the darkness faded into sunrise, the fallen House, never before silent on the inside, heard the heavens singing for the first time that Christmas morning. It was the most magnificent of any sound she’d ever heard. Despite the life and beauty that had lived for generations within her once-strong walls, none could match the splendor of this chorus. And suddenly, the house no longer felt old, no longer worn and collapsing. And as House said farewell to Christmas Moon, she joined the angels in singing: Christ is the Lord; Let ever, ever praise we; Noel, Noel; O night, o night divine; Noel, Noel; O night, o night divine. Gina Eaves is an Epsom native, a Peace College graduate and an advertising representative at The Daily Dispatch. Her column appears on Fridays. You may send e-mail to her at geaves@hendersondispatch.com or write to her c/o The Daily Dispatch, P.O. Box 908, Henderson NC, 27536.

The Daily Dispatch welcomes letters to the editor. Letters must be signed, include the author’s city of residence, and should be limited to 300 words. Please include a telephone number for verification. We reserve the right to edit comments for length, clarity, libelous material, personal attacks and poor taste. We do not publish anonymous letters, form letters, letters with names withheld or letters where we cannot verify the writer’s identity. Writers should limit themselves to one letter every 30 days. Letters can be accepted by e-mail, but city of residence and a phone number for verification purposes still must be included.

On Saturday, Dec. 5, at approximately 11:25 a.m., I was traveling to a local rest home in Henderson to visit and run some errands for my mom when, very unexpectedly, my car stalled in the cold rain. I called 911 and the dispatcher immediately dispatched an officer to my location and he was there within a minute. Wow! The officer, Mr. Neese, told me that my car had a serious problem and he gave me a ride to EZ Car Care on Dabney Drive. Mr. Neese was a true caring and respectful officer and a blessing to me. Then the wonderful people (H.L. and Janet Wheeler) who own and operate EZ Car Care Center assisted me in getting my car towed and worked diligently and remained open after hours to repair my car. This couple and their mechanic were “angels” to me in my time of need and their generosity and help will never be forgotten. The city of Henderson is a much better place to reside and shop because of outstanding citizens like these. If I can ever be of assistance to you guys, please know that I will be there. Thanks from the bottom of my heart. Merry Christmas! DEBBIE J. SIMONTON Oxford

UPDATE: Operation Christmas Child To the editor: Again … Operation Christmas Child for 2009 is a huge success! Again, area churches, schools and organizations from Vance, Granville, Franklin and Warren counties joined together in filling shoe boxes for a Shoe Box Ministry sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse. Our Relay Center goal was to collect 3,000 shoe boxes from this area. We actually collected 3,898 which were carried to Raleigh to be added to the district totals. This was 729 more shoe boxes than in 2008 … what a blessing. The grand total for our district which covers Raleigh, Durham, Apex and Garner have not come in yet but 2008 rendered 48,000. I am confident that 2009 will be even more! Just think, roughly 48,000-plus children will receive a shoe box at Christmas that would have normally received nothing. This is a wonderful accomplishment for our area and I am so proud of all that participated. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank The Daily Dispatch for all the coverage they gave this mission during our Collection Week in November 2009. Your coverage again sparked interest and enthusiasm here in the Vance County area. We had churches and organizations participate this year that had not done this mission before and they came in so excited. Operation Christmas Child has been a key mission for North Henderson Baptist Church for the past six years and we look forward to serving as the Relay Center for this mission for years to come. We feel this mission can be expressed in a few words … “Jesus in a Shoe Box.” Thanks again for participating and may God Bless each of you as we celebrate the Christmas Season. JoAnn Wilder, Director Operation Christmas Child North Henderson Baptist Church

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News From The Light Side FRIDAY Morning / Early Afternoon 12/18/09

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