National Weather Service

Hurricane Preparedness Week: Inland Flooding & Disaster Supplies

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-Information courtesy Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations

THIS WEEK IS NORTH CAROLINA’S HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK

All week long the National Weather Service will issue informative messages to help you prepare for the hurricane season. Today’s topics include inland flooding and assembling disaster supplies.

Inland Flooding

Inland flooding is the most deadly and serious threat hurricanes bring to inland areas of North Carolina. In September 1999, inland flooding occurred with Hurricane Floyd and claimed 35 lives in North Carolina. Hurricane Matthew in October 2016 generated record flooding across much of the coastal plain of North Carolina, claimed 28 lives and left thousands homeless and entire towns under water.

More recently, Hurricane Florence produced devastating inland flooding and resulted in 11 flood-related deaths in North Carolina.

Overall, most hurricane deaths over the past 30 years have been the result of flooding, many of which have occurred in automobiles as people attempt to drive through flooded areas where water covers the road.

It is important to realize the amount of rain a tropical system produces is not related to the intensity of the wind. Weak hurricanes and even tropical storms have caused disastrous floods throughout history. For example, in 2006 the remnants of Tropical Storm Alberto moved over central North Carolina dropping 4 to 8 inches of rain from Sanford to Raleigh, resulting in major flooding along numerous creeks.

So what can you do? Anytime a hurricane or tropical storm threatens, think flooding. It is very important to determine if you live in an area at risk of flooding. If your yard or nearby roads around your home flood during ordinary thunderstorms, then you are at serious risk of flooding from torrential tropical rainfall. Those living near creeks, streams and drainage ditches should also closely watch water levels. Remember, extreme rainfall events bring extreme flooding typically not experienced in the past. During extreme events, even those areas which normally do not flood are at risk.

Always stay aware of road conditions and make sure your escape route is not becoming flooded by heavy rain. Never attempt to cross flowing water; instead, remember to turn around, don’t drown. The reason that so many people drown during flooding is because few of them realize the incredible power of water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs. Never allow children to play near streams, creeks or drainage ditches. As rainwater runs off, streams, creeks, and ditches fill with running water that can easily sweep a child away.

Finally, have an emergency action plan and know your homeowners and flood insurance policies. Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance. Do not make assumptions and remember to check your policies.

Assemble Disaster Supplies

You’re going to need supplies – not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy and unpleasant aftermath. Have enough non-perishable food, water and medicines to last each person in your family a minimum of one week. Electricity and water could be out for at least that long.

You’ll need extra cash, a 30-day supply of medicines, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. Many of us have cell phones, and they all run on batteries. You’re going to need a portable, crank or solar powered USB charger. Before the storm, be sure to fill up your car or a gas can. If the power goes out, you will be unable to pump gas.

To learn more about what to include in your disaster supply kit, please visit https://flash.org.

For more information about hurricane preparedness…please visit the following web sites:

• https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare
• https://www.readync.org

Granville County: Compost Bins & Kitchen Caddies Now Available

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-Press Release, Granville County Government

“Reduce – Reuse – Recycle” comes to mind when most everyone sees the “recycle” symbol, but it also has another message and meaning that goes deeper, “Collection – Processing – Utilization.”

This can be accomplished by composting in three easy steps: 1) collect food scraps or residuals, along with leaves or shredded paper; 2) place items into the compost bin or pile to let the “processing” occur; and 3) use the finished product in your gardens, indoor plants, on your lawn and many other applications.

Since approximately one-third of food produced for human consumption is wasted, everyone should strongly consider backyard composting.

Outdoor compost bins and kitchen caddies are now available for purchase. Contact Granville County Recycling Coordinator Teresa Baker at 919-725-1417 or bakertd@gcs.k12.nc.us if you would like to get started today.

National Weather Service

Hurricane Preparedness Week: High Winds & Insurance Coverage

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-Information courtesy Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations

THIS WEEK IS NORTH CAROLINA’S HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK

All week long, the National Weather Service will issue informative messages to help you prepare for the hurricane season. Today’s topics include high winds and secure an insurance check-up.

High Winds

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale classifies hurricanes into five categories based on their sustained wind speed at the indicated time. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant loss of life and property. Category 1 and 2 storms are still dangerous and require preventive measures.

It is important that you know your hurricane warning terminology – the difference between watches and warning:

• Hurricane Warning: An announcement that sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected somewhere within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds. The warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

• Hurricane Watch: An announcement that sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are possible somewhere within the specified area in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds.

• Tropical Storm Warning: An announcement that sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are expected somewhere within the specified area within 36 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone.

• Tropical Storm Watch: An announcement that sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph are possible somewhere within the specified area within 48 hours in association with a tropical, subtropical, or post-tropical cyclone.

Keep in mind that even tropical storm force winds of less than 74 mph are capable of tossing around debris and causing damage similar to that seen in inland areas during Hurricane Fran especially in the Raleigh area. For this reason, you should seek shelter from the wind in a sturdy building as the hurricane moves inland and before the onset of tropical storm force winds. Tropical storm force winds usually strike hours ahead of the actual hurricane’s eye. For this reason, many emergency officials typically have evacuations completed and personnel sheltered before the onset of tropical storm force winds.

Hurricane-force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and items left outside become flying missiles in high wind. Falling trees cause extensive damage to power lines, towers and underground water lines. This can cause extended disruptions of utility services and you need roofing contractors to fix things. Damaging hurricane force winds can be just as devastating as tornadoes.

You can protect windows by installing hurricane shutters or prepare 5/8 inch plywood panels. Garage doors are also very susceptible to high wind and fail frequently in tropical storms and hurricanes when wind gusts exceed 70 mph. Reinforcing garage doors with affordable braces significantly increase structural integrity.

Things you can do before a storm threatens include assessing your home’s landscaping and assess the threat from falling trees. Trim back any dead limbs as well as large overhanging branches. Pick up all loose objects around the house including lawn furniture, grills, and potted plants. Lastly, have a plan of where to seek shelter in your home if high wind threatens you. Talk with your family and let everyone know where your predetermined safe room is in your home. Interior hallways, closets and bathrooms are the safest locations. Always stay away from windows and exterior doors.

Secure an Insurance Check-up

Call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance check-up to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for it, and it’s available through your company, agent or the National Flood Insurance Program at www.floodsmart.gov. Act now as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period. Finally, know where your insurance documents and contact information are located, and be sure to take them with you if you have to evacuate.

For more information about hurricane preparedness, please visit the following web sites: • https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare • https://www.readync.org.

Granville County Chamber of Commerce

Granville Chamber to Host 5th Annual Member Appreciation Picnic

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— courtesy Granville County Chamber of Commerce | Ginnie Currin, Executive Director ~ 919-693-6125 ~ ginnie@granville-chamber.com

The Granville County Chamber of Commerce will host their 5th annual Member Appreciation Day picnic on Friday, May 17, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Granville Athletic Park (GAP), 4615 Belltown Rd in Oxford.

This ambassador-sponsored event is held in appreciation of Granville Co. Chamber members. The picnic will include free hot dogs, hamburgers, trimmings, cornhole games and great conversation!

Reservations are required. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by May 15 to wanda@granville-chamber.com, (919) 693-6125; or tawheeler@granville-chamber.com, (919) 528-4994.

New Horizons Baptist to Host BBQ Chicken Plate Sale

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-Information courtesy Cam Ford, Pastor, New Horizons Baptist Church

New Horizons Baptist Church will host a BBQ Chicken Plate sale at the church on Friday, May 31, 2019, from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Plates are $8 and will be available for pick up at the church (corner of Hwy 15 N and Sterl Carrington Rd. in Oxford, NC).

 

 

National Weather Service

It’s North Carolina Hurricane Preparedness Week. Are You Ready?

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-Information courtesy Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations

The Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1 of each year and ends on November 30. Tropical cyclones are among nature’s most powerful and destructive phenomena. If you live in an area prone to tropical cyclones, you need to be prepared. Even areas well away from the coastline can be threatened by dangerous flooding, destructive winds and tornadoes from these storms. The National Hurricane Center issues watches, warnings, forecasts, and analyses of hazardous tropical weather.

May 5 through May 11, 2019, is Hurricane Preparedness Week in North Carolina, as well as nationally. The Vance County Office of Emergency Operations wants to make sure that you and your family are prepared for whatever this season brings our way.

The 2019 Atlantic hurricane season is forecast to be slightly below average due to a relatively high likelihood of a weak El Nino coupled with slightly lower sea surface temperatures, according to a report released by Colorado State University. Their predictions for this season include 13 named storms, with 5 becoming hurricanes and 2 expected to become major hurricanes of category 3 status or higher.

Forecasters at North Carolina State University are forecasting a near average season with similar expectations and a range of 13 to 16 names storms.

“The time to prepare is now, well out in front of hurricane season,” said Brian K. Short, Director of Emergency Operations for Vance County. Keep in mind that it only takes one storm to cause significant impact. Communities and individuals are expected to be self-sufficient for a minimum of 72 hours (3 days) following the impact of a hurricane. “If the impact is severe enough, it could potentially take outside help that long to get here,” Short said. “By taking the time to gather up a few basic necessities now, you will enable your family to weather the storm and the aftermath until help can arrive.”

In the event that a storm should threaten our area, the Vance County Emergency Operations staff will use all available means to get important information out and will keep the public informed of our preparedness activities. Like us on Facebook to stay up to date on severe weather and coordination activities.

Smartphone users can also download a free app from ReadyNC.org. This app provides a great deal of information regarding storm preparedness as well as current road conditions, local weather, power outages and storm shelters that are open just to name a few. Follow the link below to get this free app.

https://www.readync.org/EN/DOWNLOADAPP.html

For more information about how you and your family can prepare for severe weather, including hurricanes, visit our website at: https://www.vancecounty.org/em.

While you’re there, be sure to visit our community alert and notification section to sign up for CODE RED, our emergency alert system. NOTE: if you have a landline phone you are most likely already in the CODE RED system. Please add your cell phone if you would like to receive real-time local alerts on your mobile phone or device.

You may also visit Vance County Emergency Operations on Facebook or call our office at 252-438-8264 for more information.

The 2019 tropical storm names for the Atlantic region include Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Imelda, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastian, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

Recommended Family Preparedness Items

The best time to assemble a three-day emergency supply kit is well before you will ever need it. Most people already have these items around the house and it is a matter of assembling them now before an evacuation or State of Emergency order is issued. Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your family’s safety and comfort during and after a disaster. Store enough supplies for at least three days, preferably seven days, in one place.

Start with an easy to carry, watertight container – a large plastic trash can will do, or line a sturdy cardboard box with a couple of trash bags. Next, gather up the following items and place them in your kit:

Essentials

 Water – 1 gallon per person per day (a week’s supply of water is preferable)

 Water purification kit or bleach

 First aid kit and first aid book

 Pre-cooked, non-perishable foods, such as canned meats, granola bars, instant soup & cereals, etc.

 Baby supplies: formula, bottle, pacifier, soap, baby powder, clothing, blankets, baby wipes, disposable diapers, canned food and juices

 Non-electric can opener

 Anti-bacterial hand wipes or gel

 Blanket or sleeping bag per person

 Portable radio or portable TV and extra batteries

 Flashlight and extra batteries

 Essential medications

 Extra pair of eyeglasses

 Extra house and car keys

 Fire extinguisher – ABC-type

 Food, water, leash and carrier for pets

 Cash and change

 Seasonal change of clothing, including sturdy shoes

Sanitation Supplies

 Large plastic trash bags for waste, tarps and rain ponchos

 Large trash cans

 Bar soap, shampoo and liquid detergent

 Toothpaste and toothbrushes

 Feminine hygiene supplies

 Toilet paper

 Household bleach

 Rubber gloves

 Don’t forget your pets when getting prepared!!!

‘Evening of Excellence’ Honors GCPS Teachers/Employees of the Year

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-Press Release, Granville County Public Schools

Evening of Excellence & Teacher of the Year

On Thursday, May 2, 2019, hundreds of parents and community members came out to a packed auditorium at South Granville High School to celebrate the second annual “Evening of Excellence” for our schools.  The event celebrated the accomplishments of two groups: all students who earned straight A’s and perfect attendance in grades K-12; and employees who demonstrated excellence through their work across the district.

Pictured left to right: Jamar Perry, HR Director; Dr. Michael Myrick, Asst Supt, Jade Currin (CENTER) 2019 Teacher of the Year, Dr. Alisa McLean, Superintendent, Beth Day, Asst Supt, Dr. Stan Winborne, Exec Director. (Photo courtesy GCPS)

Employees were honored at a reception in the school’s Media Center with refreshments and heavy hors d’oeuvres served to staff and their families prior to the event.

The event kicked off as students marched across the stage to thumping music and bright lights as they were greeted by formally dressed district staff and Board members. These proud, smiling students were honored for earning perfect attendance and straight A’s for the year. Students from every school who earned these top honors had the privilege of walking the red carpet and receiving their gold star, which they can now proudly wear as evidence of their outstanding efforts in academics.

Board chairman Dr. Tom Houlihan commented in his opening remarks, “Recognizing excellence in the academic achievement of our students is fundamental to our work. The students here tonight should be commended for their efforts, and we are so proud of what you do each and every day. You are on the right path and are models for your peers. Congratulations!”

Also recognized at the event were dozens of staff members for excellence in their profession. Those first called on to the stage were teachers who received honors (and monetary bonuses from the state) for their students’ performance on End-of-Grade tests, Advanced Placement Exams, and Career and Technical credentials. Each walked the red carpet to receive their gold star and recognition.

The next employees called on stage were the “employees of the year” from a wide range of categories. Each received a gold star plaque as they walked the red carpet.

2019 Employees of the Year:

Crystal Daye  – CG Credle – Bus Driver of the Year 2019

Deborah Adcock – JTOH/SS – Child Nutrition Employee of the Year 2019

Sarah Hardin – CESA – Clerical Employee of the Year 2019

Fred Frizzle – TRES – Custodian of the Year 2019

Christi Stephenson – Phoenix Academy – Student Support Employee of the Year  2019

Amy Clough – Phoenix Academy – Teacher Assistant of the Year 2019

Melanie Burnette – Exceptional Children – Instructional Support Employee of the Year 2019

Kasey Simmons – CG Credle – Outstanding Beginning Teacher of the Year 2019

Anthony Dickens – JF Webb – Assistant Principal of the Year 2019

Finally, senior staff and Board members recognized each of the eighteen schools’ respective teachers of the year as they were called onto the stage.

Superintendent McLean cut through the suspense-filled moment in the audience as she announced the 2nd and 1st runners up before finally announcing the 2019 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Jade Currin, Kindergarten Teacher at Wilton Elementary School.  Ms. Currin was presented with her trophy, flowers and a check for $1,000 on behalf of the Granville Ed Foundation, who was co-sponsor of the event along with Builders Services of Creedmoor. Each of the runners up were honored with a trophy and $500 on behalf of the Granville Ed Foundation.

Ms. Currin will go on to represent the district at the regional, state and, hopefully, national level of the competition. “We are sure that Ms. Currin will be a shining star among the others recognized across the country for this top honor. We are proud of her and all she represents,” proclaimed Dr. McLean.

2019 Granville County Public Schools Teachers of the Year:

BSES:  Heather Mann

CG Credle ES:  Katherine Thompson (2nd Runner Up)

CESA:  HarleyAnn Lesher

Hawley:  Justin Dickson

GCHS:  Doug Roberson

GECHS:  Danielle Igims

JTOH:  Angela Norwood

JF Webb:  Carole Griffin

Webb SLHS:  Wendi Leas

MPMS:  Detroit Yancey

MTE:  Susan Nutt

NGMS: Brian Kaprive (1st Runner Up)

Phoenix Academy:  Bryant Blackwell

SGHS:  Freda Lemay

SSES:  Rebecca Starzynski

TRES:  Heather Wolford

WOX:  Karen Honeycutt

Wilton:  Jade Currin (WINNER)

The evening concluded with a reception of desserts and refreshments for all who attended. Granville County Public Schools is proud to continue the tradition of recognizing excellence and achievement for all!

U.S. Department of Justice

DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day Declared Big Success

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-Press Release, U.S. Dept. of Justice

United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announces the results of the DEA April 27, 2019, 17th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Nationwide, DEA, along with their law enforcement partners collected nearly 469 tons of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. In the Eastern District of North Carolina, approximately 7,229.92 pounds were collected and 8,968 pounds were collected statewide.

“Across the country and here in the Eastern District of North Carolina, we are facing a real and dangerous threat from opioids and other prescription drugs,” said United States Attorney Higdon. “We have unprecedented levels of addiction, frightening numbers of overdoses, and an alarming number of deaths because of the over-prescription and improper use of these drugs. This requires each of us to work to solve it. By properly disposing of prescription medication we do not need, we can reduce the risk that these drugs will fall into the wrong hands.”

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 91 Americans die each day from an opioid overdose. Some painkiller abusers move on to heroin: Four out of five new heroin users started with painkillers.

Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards. This initiative addresses the public safety and public health issues that surround medications languishing in home cabinets, becoming highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse.

DEA’s next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is October 26, 2019.

For complete results of the recently concluded Spring Take Back Day visit www.DEATakeBack.com. If you missed the Take Back Day click here https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1 to locate an authorized collector in your area.

VGCC Community Band to Perform at McGregor Hall, Raleigh Rd Outdoor Theatre

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The Community Band of Vance-Granville Community College will perform a spring concert on Monday, May 6, 2019, at 7:30 p.m. at the McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center in downtown Henderson. Admission is free.

The band will also perform a Memorial weekend performance at Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre, 3336 Raleigh Rd in Henderson, on Saturday, May 25 at 6 p.m. The concert will be performed prior to the showing of that evening’s feature film.

The Vance-Granville Community Band offers free membership to area musicians. The band rehearses on Monday nights from 7 until 9 p.m. during the academic year at the Main Campus in Henderson. If you are interested in joining, please contact Brian Miller at bmiller9302@vgcc.edu.

Above, the Vance-Granville Community Band performs under the direction of Brian Miller in this file photo from its May 2017 concert in McGregor Hall. (VGCC Photo)

 

Timberlake to Present ‘All Things Kerr Lake’ Lecture at Granville Senior Center

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-Information courtesy Frank Timberlake

Granville County native and Kerr Lake enthusiast Frank Timberlake will present a lecture, “All Things Kerr Lake” on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Granville County Senior Center on Lanier Street in Oxford.

As a part of the Creative Life Learning Series, the lecture will focus on a little history but mostly public opportunities at the more than 30 recreational facilities around Kerr Lake.

Seating is available for nominal fees for adults of any age. Register by calling (919) 693-1930.

About Timberlake:

Timberlake manages the 850-member Kerr Lake Park Watch, is a co-founder of the Friends of Occoneechee, former Chairman of the NC State Parks board, and former governor’s liaison with the US Army Corps of Engineers.

He grew up in Stovall and Grassy Creek.