The City of Henderson’s Sewer Collection System bypassed approximately 391,900 gallons of untreated water on September 18, 2020, due to inflow/infiltration from heavy rain.
The overflows occurred at Sandy Creek Pump Station, Redbud Pump Station, and several manholes including Neatherly Street, the intersection of Pinkston Street/Farrar Avenue, the intersection of Alexander Avenue/S. Elizabeth Street, and the intersection of Alexander Avenue/Willow Lane.
Approximately 342,450 gallons of untreated water entered a tributary to Sandy Creek. Approximately 46,000 gallons of untreated water entered a tributary to Red Bud Creek. Approximately 3,450 gallons were contained on the ground.
North Carolina General Statutes Article 21 Chapter 143.215.1c requires a press release for all bypasses of 1,000 gallons or more that enter surface waters.
Questions concerning this matter should be directed to Joey Long Jr – Collection System ORC at (252) 226-4492, Christy Lipscomb – HWRF Interim Director/ORC at (252) 430-9387, or Public Works Director Andy Perkinson at (252) 431-6117.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0067_hendersonlogo.png.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-21 07:43:572020-09-21 07:43:57City of Henderson Reports Recent Bypass of Untreated Water
Coach’s Corner Show for 18 Sept, 2020. Host Trey Snide speaks with Jones Angell, play by play announcer for the UNC Tar Heels. Angell discusses the cancellation of Saturday’s scheduled game against Charlotte due to a player contracting COVID-19. Angell says that the pandemic may further disrupt the football schedule and could become particularly challenging. He also says the Tar Heels were not as sharp during some of last Saturday’s game against Syracuse, and the team must address the issue of staying sharp throughout the season.
Vance-Granville Community College student Emiliano Dunton of Oxford has faced challenges in his life, and now, he is involved in research related to what is perhaps the world’s biggest challenge today: the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
Dunton, a VGCC Bioprocess Technology student, is participating in a research externship program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) through a partnership between the community college and the university. Through the externship, he gets practical experience related to his studies. Specifically, Dunton works with a team led by Dr. Weifan Zheng, an award-winning professor of pharmaceutical sciences at NCCU’s Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise (BRITE) program, along with research scientists Xialan Dong and Zheng Huang. Zheng and his team are currently using computer programming to identify drugs that may be effective in attacking COVID-19.
Vance-Granville Community College student Emiliano Dunton of Oxford is participating in a research externship program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) through a partnership between the community college and the university. (Photo courtesy VGCC)
“I am currently learning a new computer language called Python, which is the most used computer coding language of 2020,” Dunton explained. “Our plan is to use the computer language to search for articles pertaining to biopharma research and information regarding COVID-19.”
Currently, due to that same global pandemic, Dunton is working and learning remotely with the professors at NCCU, but he looks forward to making an on-site visit to the Durham campus in November.
Stewart Lyon, head of the Bioprocess Technology program at VGCC, said Dunton is perfect for this research opportunity because of his interest in not just biotechnology but computers. “Emiliano has found a niche in science in the growing field of bioinformatics,” Lyon said. “Bioinformatics essentially uses computer programming languages to analyze large biological data sets.”
Dunton recalled, “I enrolled at VGCC because I did some research on good biotechnology programs and found out VGCC had one of the best around.” He said that the Bioprocess program appealed to him “because I’ve always been intrigued with technology, and the ever-growing science/information-driven era we live in calls for that type of background.”
Dunton said his excitement about learning a new computer language led him to participate in the NCCU externship program. “I also want to inspire more minority youth in my community to strive for excellence and let them know that no matter where you’re from, or what type of background you came up from, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to,” he added.
Lyon said that Dunton is an inspiration to his instructors and classmates because of his determination to overcome obstacles in order to achieve success. Due to injuries sustained from a gunshot wound years ago, Dunton uses a wheelchair. Though he has use of his arms, Dunton also relies largely on touch-screen computers and has recently learned to code using speech-recognition software.
“After I’ve completed my studies at VGCC, my goal is to continue my education and obtain a bachelor’s of science degree,” Dunton added. He has an interest in the intersection of pharmaceuticals and agriculture and would like to learn more about North Carolina’s growing hemp industry and related pharmaceutical extracts. “I also would like to empower and educate people on methods to generate generational wealth for minority youth in the surrounding communities, as well as inspire academic excellence,” Dunton said.
According to Lyon, Dunton “serves as an example of resilience and that great opportunities in life are available.” He recalled seeing how excited the student was “to find out that he was going to be actively contributing to a research team with the goal of helping to resolve a global health crisis….I think his time with VGCC and Bioprocess Technology, and now linking back to the UNC system, has been transformative for him. Emiliano also balances his obligations as an outstanding student with his familial and community responsibilities. He is a father as well as a student, and seeks to be a role model both at home and in the classroom.” Dunton said his seven-year-old daughter is one of his greatest “sources of strength.”
Dunton is the recipient of the Donald and Betsy Seifert Presidential Excellence Award this year. That is VGCC’s highest scholarship level.
Lyon said he is also pleased with the partnership with NCCU that allows Dunton to have such an interesting experience. The externship program is largely supported by a grant from the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) to NCCU.
“VGCC is listed as a participant in NCCU’s initiatives under the grant,” Lyon explained. “NCCU uses the funds to accomplish two major goals: develop and implement the research externship experiences for our students, and to create stackable program credentials. This ultimately helps to increase the number of students entering the industry employment pipeline. The partnership between VGCC and NCCU now allows for our students to transfer from VGCC’s Bioprocess Technology degree to NCCU’s bachelor’s degree program in Pharmaceutical Sciences.”
VGCC’s Bioprocess Technology program is open to everyone, including current high school students through the North Carolina Career & College Promise (CCP) program. In fact, through NC CCP, the program is tuition-free for eligible high school students who want to get an early start on their college education.
For more information on VGCC’s biotech programs, contact Lyon at lyons@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3632.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Emiliano-Dunton.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-18 11:00:292020-09-17 16:26:45VGCC Student Engages in Cutting-Edge COVID-19 Research
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Oxford-Thanksgiving-Food-Drive.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-18 10:00:502020-09-17 16:26:09City of Oxford to Hold 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive
Mr. Ernie Anderson of Creedmoor was sworn into office as County Commissioner at 3 p.m. on September 16, 2020. Anderson was appointed by the Granville County Board of Commissioners to represent District 5, a seat left vacant by the unexpected passing of Comm. Owen Roberts in July.
Anderson, a construction project manager, was sworn in by Creedmoor Mayor Bobby Wheeler, with Commissioners Zelodis Jay (District 1), Sue Hinman (District 3) and Tim Karan (District 6) in attendance.
The appointment was made at the September 8 meeting of the Board. Anderson will serve until December 7, as this seat is on the upcoming ballot.
County Commissioner Ernie Anderson is pictured above (right) being sworn into office on Sept. 16, 2020. Creedmoor Mayor Bobby Wheeler administered the oath of office while Anderson’s wife Linda looked on. (Photo courtesy Granville Co. Govt.)
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Ernie-Anderson.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-18 09:00:082020-09-17 16:25:37Anderson Sworn In as Granville County Commissioner
-Information courtesy Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Department
ENROLLING NOW!
All-Boys Saturday Leadership Academy
Saturday Leadership Academy provides small group instruction, coaching, mentorship and leadership development for teen African American males ages 12-18 residing in Vance County, NC.
ELIGIBILITY: African American males ages 12-18 residing in Vance County, North Carolina.
WHEN DO WE MEET: Saturday beginning September 19, 2020, and ending Saturday, December 12, 2020, from 1-2:30 p.m. at Aycock Recreation Center, 307 Carey Chapel Road, Henderson, NC.
Orientation: We will meet parents, students, and coaches on Saturday, September 19 at 1:30 p.m. at the Aycock Recreation Center.
Social distancing will be required. Please wear your masks.
READY TO REGISTER? Complete the registration form below and click SUBMIT.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Redeem-The-Teens.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-18 07:44:202020-09-18 07:44:37Register Now: All-Boys Teen Leadership Academy to Hold Orientation This Weekend
After several weeks of stable COVID-19 trends and continued low virus spread in school settings, Governor Roy Cooper today announced that beginning on October 5, North Carolina public school districts and charter schools can choose to implement Plan A for elementary schools (grades K-5).
Plan A continues to include important safety measures like face coverings for all students, teachers and staff, social distancing, and symptom screening but does not require schools to reduce the number of children in the classroom.
“We are able to open this option because most North Carolinians have doubled down on our safety and prevention measures and stabilized our numbers,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “North Carolinians are doing the hard work to improve our numbers and trends. Many people are wearing masks, keeping social distance and being careful to protect others as well as themselves. We have shown that listening to the science works. And I’m proud of our resolve.”
As the Governor announced in July, every district will continue to have the flexibility to select Plan A, B or C based on their unique needs. In addition, districts should still provide an option for families to select all remote learning for their students. Read the Strong Schools NC Public Health Toolkit to learn more about the requirements under each plan.
Dr. Mandy Cohen, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services shared an update on North Carolina’s data trends. Dr. Cohen explained that North Carolina has seen a sustained leveling or decrease of key metrics.
“Our trends show that we are on the right track. It’s up to all of us to protect our progress. Our individual actions like those 3 Ws will help keep our school doors open.,” said Secretary Cohen.
Dr. Cohen also explained that as schools have opened, the current science shows that younger children are less likely to become infected, have symptoms, experience severe disease or spread the virus.
“It’s great news today that we are a step closer to providing the option of in-person learning to families who want their children to return to school,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Mark Johnson. “While the Governor, the State Board of Education, and I have our differences, I join with them today to encourage local school board members to take advantage of this change and open all schools safely. I thank the many parents and teachers across North Carolina who have been vocal advocates on this important issue.”
“For the past six months, superintendents, principals, teachers and local BOE have worked diligently to care for the safety of our students and staff while educating our children. While we are anxious to return all students, we know that teachers, principals, and students need a gradual transition over the next three months. I ask our parents to remain patient, knowing that we are moving as quickly as is safely possible. And I ask our teachers to continue to assist our students by supporting this deliberate, thoughtful transition,” said Eric Davis, Chairman of the State Board of Education.
Trajectory in COVID-Like Illness (CLI) Surveillance Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s syndromic surveillance trend for COVID-like illness is declining.
Trajectory of Confirmed Cases Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory of lab-confirmed cases is declining.
Trajectory in Percent of Tests Returning Positive Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory in percent of tests returning positive is declining.
Trajectory in Hospitalizations Over 14 Days
North Carolina’s trajectory of hospitalizations is declining.
In addition to these metrics, the state continues building capacity to be able to adequately respond to an increase in virus spread. These areas include:
Laboratory Testing
Access to testing has expanded. No-cost testing events are being deployed across the state and testing turnaround times have improved.
Tracing Capability
Contact tracers continue to be hired to bolster the efforts of local health departments. A new exposure notification app will be launched soon.
Personal Protective Equipment
Personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies are stable
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/NC-Governor.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-17 15:54:282020-09-17 15:54:28Public Schools Now Able to Implement Plan A for Elementary Schools
Kathy Walters, director of the Henderson-Vance Downtown Development Commission (DDC), has submitted her resignation to the City of Henderson effective September 30, 2020.
In a statement to WIZS News, Walters said she has “decided to retire and simplify my life.”
With approximately 10 years of prior experience working for the City of Henderson, including a turn as DDC director in the ‘90s, Walters returned to the role at full-time status in September 2019.
Henderson City Manager E. Terrell Blackmon said, “Kathy Walters chose to resign from her position, as she has several years of prior government service with the State of North Carolina. In the short while that I have been here, she has been a valuable member of my team and was instrumental in the City of Henderson regaining its status as a Main Street Community.”
A part of the Main Street Program from the mid-1980s until approximately 2010, a time that included Walters’ first tenure as director, a lapse in the completion of requirements cost the downtown area the coveted distinction.
The DDC announced last month that after a lengthy recertification process, the N.C. Main Street and Rural Planning Center has officially renamed Henderson a designated N.C. Main Street Community. Benefits of Main Street status include technical assistance with building restoration and access to grant money – perks that can help attract new businesses and breathe new life into downtown.
Dr. Stephen Pearson, chair of the DDC, said Walters was instrumental in the reestablishment of Henderson to Main Street status and was personally helpful with his new role.
“She did a fantastic job as executive director, and it’s been an absolute pleasure working with her,” Pearson said. “She was a great help to me transitioning into my position.”
Blackmon said the City will begin the recruitment process to name a new DDC director in the coming weeks. In the interim, Blackmon and Development Service Director Corey Williams will perform the day-to-day activities of Walters’ position.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0067_hendersonlogo.png.png265504Kelly Bonduranthttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngKelly Bondurant2020-09-17 13:51:232020-09-17 13:51:23Downtown Director Kathy Walters Resigns From City of Henderson
-Information courtesy the Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Department
St. Paul Presbyterian Church will hold a COVID-19 “rapid-response” testing drive-thru on Saturday, September 19, 2020, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. The church is located at 928 South Main St. in Louisburg, NC.
Participants must pre-register by calling (919) 632-6495 to schedule an appointment time. There are no out-of-pocket costs to be tested.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/COVID-Rapid-Response-Testing.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-09-17 11:41:432020-09-17 11:41:43St. Paul Presbyterian Church to Hold COVID-19 ‘Rapid-Response’ Drive-Thru Testing
