The Epsom Community Classic Run/Walk will be held Saturday, August 29, 2020, from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Originally scheduled for April, the coronavirus pandemic necessitated a rescheduling to this later date.
The race is run on a 3.5-mile loop starting and finishing at Epsom Fire and Rescue located at 8120 NC Highway 39 in Henderson.
This event is being held in partnership with New Bethel Baptist Church with the end goal of raising financial support for missions.
Entrants have a choice of entering as a competitive or recreational runner. Competitive entrants will receive an official time and will be eligible for awards. Recreational entrants will not receive official times, but can either time themselves or see their times on the digital clock at the finish line.
The entry fees are $20 through August 19, $25 August 20-28 and $30 on race day. The fee does not include a t-shirt, but shirts can be ordered for an additional $10 on or before August 19.
Awards will be presented to the first three male finishers overall, to the first three female finishers overall and to the top three finishers in each of the following age groups (both genders): 19-under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60-over.
Due to the road conditions, running with a baby stroller is not recommended. Also, please no pets.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be some changes to how the race is conducted. Water will be available both at the start/finish area and once on the course. Hand sanitizer will also be available. Vendors and food trucks will be taking their own precautions by serving pre-packaged food and drinks.
Depending on the dictates of the county, there may be post-race snacks available, but just to be safe, you may want to bring your own.
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North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 156 extending, but not waiving, proof-of-immunization and health assessment documentation deadlines for school and child-care facilities. With health care visits limited in some cases due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the order will give students and families more time to get their required vaccines and health assessments completed.
“With kids headed back to school and flu season right around the corner, it’s more important than ever this year for all North Carolinians to get their recommended immunizations,” said NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen, M.D. “Childhood immunizations keep kids safe and protect public health by lowering the likelihood of an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease like measles.”
The Executive Order and a State Health Director Memo issued by State Health Director Dr. Elizabeth Tilson will extend, but not waive, North Carolina’s current proof-of-immunization requirement deadlines for students enrolled in public, private or religious educational institutions, including child care facilities and K-12 schools as well as colleges and universities. The Executive Order also extends the deadline for each child entering a North Carolina public school for the first time to submit a school health assessment.
In typical years, proof of required immunizations and health assessments are required within 30 days of the first date of attendance of school. After the 30 days, children are to be excluded from school until the family provides documentation of requirements. This year, the 30-day “grace period” for all students will begin on October 1, 2020. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services similarly extended immunization and health assessment deadlines in September 2018 during the aftermath of Hurricane Florence.
Whether children are home-schooled or attend school in-person or by remote learning, they are required by state law to be immunized based on their age for certain vaccinations as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
School requirements are listed on the NCDHHS website according to school or grade level, as well as the requirements for young children who attend child care facilities. NCDHHS’ Immunization Branch offers comprehensive guidance on immunization recommendations, as well as advice for families on navigating access issues during COVID-19, and is working with local health departments on strategies to increase immunization access.
NCDHHS is collaborating with multiple partners, including the North Carolina Pediatric Society and the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, on an awareness campaign to help ensure school-age children are protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. NCDHHS is also partnering with Community Care of North Carolina, NC Area Health Education Centers and others on the Keeping Kids Well program to increase well-child visits and immunization rates for Medicaid beneficiaries younger than 19 years old. Governor Cooper has proclaimed August Immunization Awareness Month in North Carolina to highlight the importance of immunization.
“Immunization Awareness Month and back-to-school season are important reminders to families to make sure their children are up to date on vaccines. If you have any questions about what vaccines are due or how your doctor’s office is responding to COVID-19, reach out to your pediatrician or family physician,” said Susan Mims, MD, MPH, FAAP, president of the North Carolina Pediatric Society. “Whether your children are going back to school in person or virtually, please make sure they are protected from preventable diseases and death.”
Financial concerns should not act as a barrier to childhood immunization. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program offers free vaccines to families who cannot afford to pay for their children’s vaccines (through 19 years of age), and federal law requires most private insurance plans including Medicaid to cover recommended preventive services such as vaccinations at no out-of-pocket cost.
In order to be fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases, children should receive all age-appropriate immunizations.
For more information about vaccine-preventable diseases and recommended immunizations, refer to resources from the CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Parents who are unsure which vaccines their children need can find out by taking a short quiz on the CDC website.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/NC-Dept.-of-Health-and-Human-Services-Logo.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-08-13 09:49:592020-08-13 09:49:59Executive Order Extends School Immunization, Health Assessment Deadlines
Franklin County Schools understands that many families in our community do not have access to the internet. In order to assist those families in preparation for remote learning during the 2020-2021 school year, we are asking interested families to complete an application for internet service.
Families with reliable internet service are asked not to apply for assistance.
All applications are due Friday, August 7, 2020, by 5 p.m.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Franklin-County-Schools.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-08-04 10:40:112020-08-04 10:40:11Franklin County Schools Accepting Applications for Student Internet Service
(Update 9:30 a.m. – 8/3/2020)— update written and provided by Brian Short, Henderson-Vance Director of Emergency Operations
Click here for the Isaias briefing as of 9:30 a.m. on August 3. Overall, the local situation remains the same as in previous updates.
Presently, we remain under a Flood Watch and are just outside the boundary of counties who are under a Tropical Storm Watch (though that will likely change to include us).
We are forecast to receive wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph, with rainfall estimated between three and six inches. We should begin feeling the effects late this evening and in the overnight hours into Tuesday. With this much rain and gusty winds, we could certainly have downed trees and power outages.
As of today at 8 a.m., we have activated our Emergency Operations Center in a monitoring capacity and have escalated to a Level 2 status. We will be issuing a local Proclamation of a State of Emergency later this morning just to be on the safe side.
One particular emergency protective measure that could be implemented would be a vehicle curfew. If enacted, this would apply only to the municipal city limits of Henderson and not all of Vance County. Additionally, this limitation would only be imposed if power is lost due to the storm and would only be for the overnight hours beginning at 8 p.m. and lasting until 6 a.m.
Beginning this evening, we will be overstaffing the 911 center, and it will remain overstaffed throughout the day on Tuesday.
At this point, we do not plan to open any shelters as we do not believe they will be needed. However, we remain ready to do so if the situation worsens.
We will be coordinating our preparedness activities with our local and state response partners, and we are encouraging our citizens to continue their own local preparedness efforts.
(Update 12 Noon – 8/2/2020)— update written and provided by Brian Short, Henderson-Vance Director of Emergency Operations
Attached (above links) is the morning forecast from the National Weather Service for Tropical Storm Isaias. (Those links above will stay current with subsequent updates.) The storm continues to shift west with each update, and the current track continues to bring it inland through our state following the I-95 corridor. At present, we are forecast to receive some pretty strong wind gusts that at times could reach tropical storm strength as well as between 4 and 6 inches of rain. The rainfall will occur over a relatively short period of time, so localized flooding and flash flooding is certainly possible as are downed trees and power lines.
Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations
Our office is continuing to monitor the storm closely. We will make a decision early tomorrow (Monday) about declaring a local state of emergency for this event. We will also decide early tomorrow (Monday) regarding the implementation of any additional emergency protective measures.
Remember it is still not too late to work on your emergency supply kit (on Sunday and early Monday) and begin some basic preparedness activities if you have not done so already.
We will continue to forward along additional information as it is received.
In an earlier statement from Brian Short, he said:
Keep in mind that we are now entering peak hurricane season, and the tropics have already been very active. The time to prepare is now and not when the winds begin to blow.
In addition to non-perishable food and water, hurricane emergency supply kits should include:
• First-aid kit
• Weather radio and batteries
• Prescription medicines
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Changes of clothes
• Hygiene items such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and deodorant
• Cash
• Pet supplies including food, water, bedding, leashes, muzzle and vaccination records.
If you live in a storm surge hurricane evacuation zone or if you’re in a home that would be unsafe during a hurricane, figure out where you’d go and how you’d get there if told to evacuate.
We will continue to issue additional updates as they are received or our situation changes.
More information on severe weather and hurricane preparedness is located at www.ReadyNC.org.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/national-weather-service-logo.jpg266504John C. Rosehttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngJohn C. Rose2020-08-03 10:08:412020-08-03 15:50:29Latest on Isaias for WIZS Area
-Information courtesy the BGCNCNC newsletter and President/CEO DJ Jones
In a recent newsletter, Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central North Carolina (BGCNCNC) President/CEO Donyell “DJ” Jones announced that the Boys & Girls Clubs is working to finalize its reopening strategy.
Current plans include opening the following locations on Tuesday, September 8, 2020, with hours to be determined:
Granville Unit
Vance Unit
Franklin Unit
Franklinton Middle School Unit
Halifax Unit
Approval from the local school systems is still needed to open the following locations:
Mariam Boyd Elementary Unit
Northside K-8 Unit
West Oxford Elementary Unit
Creedmoor Elementary Unit
Inborden Elementary Unit
Everetts Elementary Unit
Although several locations will be open, due to social distancing requirements and guidance from the local health professionals, BGCNCNC will not be able to operate at full capacity. Capacity will be determined as club spaces are evaluated. The current plan is to offer in-person services and virtual programming.
As BGCNCNC moves forward with its reopening strategy and procedures, members will be contacted by the Area Director/Unit Director.
Members whose contact information has changed should contact the appropriate club location to update:
Granville Unit – (919) 690-0036, ext 121
West Oxford Elementary Unit, Creedmoor Elementary Unit – (919) 690-0036, ext 107
Vance Unit, Mariam Boyd Elem. Unit and Northside K-8 Unit – (919) 690-0036, ext 105
Franklin Unit and Franklinton Unit – (919) 690-0036, ext 104
Halifax Unit, Inborden Elem. Unit and Everetts Elem. Unit – (919) 690-0036, ext 108
For more information, please call (919) 690-0036 or visit www.bgcncnc.com.
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The Franklin County Board of Education voted on July 27 to reopen the 2020-2021 school year under Plan C, therefore, all students will begin the year fully remote.
Students who have signed up for the Virtual Academy will have the option to remain on a remote learning plan once the district moves forward with a learning plan that calls for face-to-face instruction.
Students who wish to apply for the FCS Virtual Academy may do so by the deadline of Wednesday, July 29, 2020.
FCS students who have already applied do not need to resubmit their applications. FCS will contact each student and their families in the near future with details about the next steps in the process.
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Effective August 1, 2020, a booster dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) is required for students entering the 12th grade in public, private or religious schools in North Carolina. Students who do not meet this requirement may not be allowed to attend school until they receive the booster dose.
The MenACWY vaccine helps protect against four common strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y) that cause diseases including infections of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and bloodstream infections (bacteremia or septicemia).
“The MenACWY vaccine is the best protection against meningococcal disease, which most often affects young people,” said Kelly Kimple, M.D., M.P.H., Chief of the Women’s and Children’s Health Section of the Division of Public Health. “It is vital that children and adolescents continue to receive all their immunizations on schedule to ensure they are fully protected against all vaccine-preventable diseases, including some of the major causes of meningitis.”
All 11- through 12-year-old adolescents should receive one dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine. A booster dose of MenACWY should be given at age 16 for adolescents entering the 12th grade or by 17 years of age, whichever comes first. Adolescents who receive their first dose of MenACWY on or after their 16th birthday do not need a booster dose.
There are two age-appropriate vaccines that meet this requirement and provide the necessary protection, Menactra® and Menveo®. If unsure, parents are urged to ask their child’s immunizing provider if they are properly protected, or if an additional vaccine is needed.
Teens and young adults are at increased risk for infection with meningococcal disease. Infection has two common outcomes: meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and sepsis (bloodstream infections). Symptoms include sudden onset of fever, headache and stiff neck. With bloodstream infection, symptoms also include a dark purple rash. About 1 of every 10 people who gets the disease dies from it.
Even with treatment, an infection with meningococcal disease can lead to death within a few hours. In non-fatal cases, permanent disabilities can include loss of limbs, hearing loss and brain damage. The bacteria that cause this infection can spread when people have close contact with someone’s saliva, such as through kissing, coughing or sharing eating utensils and cups.
Recognizing the importance of immunization, Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed July as Adolescent Immunization Awareness MonthOpen PDF in North Carolina. Now, more than ever, public health reminds us of the importance of continued routine vaccination to keep children healthy and avoid the risk of vaccine-preventable disease.
On Thursday, July 23, 2020, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division issued warrants for the arrest of Daniel Kasanje Arthur, a Franklin County resident. Daniel Kasanje Arthur was charged with six (6) counts of Second-Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Charges followed after an extensive investigation conducted by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations Computer Crimes Unit.
Daniel Kasanje Arthur was given a $250,000 secure bond and is currently held in the Franklin County Detention Center.
Daniel Kasanje Arthur
36 years old
102 Cardinal Dr.
Youngsville, NC 27596
Daniel Kasanje Arthur (Photo courtesy FCSO)
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North Carolina residents who have received seed shipments that they did not order from China or other foreign sources are advised not to plant these seeds because they could be a pathway for the introduction of invasive species, insects and plant diseases.
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has been contacted by numerous people who have received the seeds, which are likely the product of an international internet scam known as “brushing.” “According to the Better Business Bureau, foreign, third-party sellers use your address and Amazon information to generate a fake sale and positive review to boost their product ratings,” said Phil Wilson, director of the Plant Industry Division.
“Seeds are just one of the items used in this scam, however, you could receive other inexpensive items such as rubber bands, plastic toys, or empty bags.” This type of international shipment of plant material is unlawful and NCDA&CS asks anyone who received one of these unsolicited foreign shipments to save the contents along with all shipping labels and contact the Plant Industry Division toll-free at 800-206-9333 or email at newpest@ncagr.gov. Plant Industry staff will contact you to gather information and pick up the package.
North Carolina residents are not in violation of any regulations if they received these shipments, but they are the key to identifying and stopping future shipments.
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— press release from Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame
Subject: Antavian Cornelius Yancey
Aliases: Cornelius Yancey and Antavian Yancey
On Thursday, July 16, 2020, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division received a call reference smoke in a wooded area. Upon the arrival of Deputies and the Vance County Fire Department on the scene, a vehicle was fully engulfed.
Members of the Vance County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division responded to investigate the vehicle fire along with North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s Arson Unit.
On July 17, 2020, the Vance County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division received a phone call from Burlington Police Department reference to Burlington Police Department locating the body of a black female that was believed to be from Henderson, North Carolina. The female was identified as Charisma Robinson, age 35.
Investigators began to investigate these incidents and developed that the two cases were connected. Participating agencies from the Vance County Sheriff’s Office, Henderson Police Department, Burlington Police Department and North Carolina State Bureau of investigation began a collaborative effort to solve the murder of Charisma Robinson.
Through the investigation a person of interest was developed and later identified as a subject/suspect in this matter.
On July 24, 2020 a warrant for Murder and Burning of Personnel Property was issued for Antavian Cornelius Yancey (B/M/ Age 34), regarding the death of Charisma Robinson.
Yancey is believed to be armed and dangerous. If located please contact the Vance County Sheriff’s Office at 252-738-2200.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Antavian-Cornelius-Yancey_Vance-Sheriff-Photo.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2020-07-25 16:25:382020-07-27 12:26:01Yancey Believed to be Armed and Dangerous
