U.S. Department of Justice

DEA’s Drug Take Back Day Yields Highest NC Total Ever Collected

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-Press Release, U.S. Department of Justice

North Carolinians participating in the United States Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA’s) 18th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Initiative (NTBI) held on Saturday, October 26, turned in 38,541 pounds of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at sites set up throughout the state. This was the highest amount ever collected during the previous 17 Rx drug take back events.

Now in its 10th year, this event continues to remove large volumes of opioids and other medicines from the nation’s homes, where they could be stolen and abused by family members and visitors, including children and teens.

Beginning with October’s campaign, DEA accepted vaping devices like the Pax 3 Vapes at 180Smoke.ca, and cartridges in addition to medications at all of its drop-off locations. With hundreds of confirmed lung injuries and dozens of deaths attributed to vaping use, DEA is working diligently in our communities and through our outreach efforts to spread the word about the dangers of vaping. Although no vaping devices/cartridges were reported to have been collected locally, these items may have been collected nationally (pending confirmation).

“Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the DEA Atlanta Field Division commented, “DEA’s eighteenth Prescription Drug Take-Back campaign was a success both locally and nationally. While North Carolinians turned in 38,541 pounds of unwanted or expired medications, nationally, nearly 883,000 pounds of expired and unwanted prescription medications were collected at nearly 6,174 sites made available across the United States. Also, in an effort to combat another emerging public health threat – particularly to our nation’s youth – we’re proud to have extended the same opportunity to those looking to dispose of harmful vaping products.” I would like to thank the multitude of partners (both law enforcement and nonlaw enforcement) who worked tirelessly to make this event another great success.”

The public has embraced Take Back Day events because they provide easy, no-cost opportunities to remove medicines languishing in the home that are highly susceptible to misuse, abuse, and theft. Public demand for safe and secure drug disposal has also resulted in a significant increase in year-round drug drop boxes at law enforcement facilities, pharmacies, and elsewhere, making drug disposal even more convenient.

Complete results for DEA’s fall Take Back Day are available at www.DEATakeBack.com.

DEA’s next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 25, 2020.

The DEA encourages parents, along with their children, to educate themselves about the dangers of legal and illegal drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.justhinktwice.com, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com and www.dea.gov. Also, follow DEA Atlanta via Twitter at @DEAATLANTADiv.

News 11/13/19

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Town Talk 11/12/19: Sadie’s Coffee Corner Open for Business in Downtown Henderson!

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Dr. Stephen Pearson, co-owner of the newly opened Sadie’s Coffee Corner in downtown Henderson, was the guest of honor on Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.

On Saturday, November 9, Pearson and wife Amanda celebrated the grand opening of the coffee shop located in the former Gupton’s Gun Shop building at 324 S. Garnett Street.

“The grand opening was awesome,” said Pearson. “We got to meet all kinds of people from town. A lot of people expressed joy in having a place to come, sit down, relax and get a good coffee.”

With local offerings from Wake Forest-based Black and White Coffee Roasters, Lake Gaston Coffee, Durham-based Big Spoon Roasters, Enfield Honey Farm in Halifax and baked goods from Strong Arm Baking Company in Oxford, the Pearsons are investing in the area they now call home.

Formerly based in Tampa, FL, the Pearsons began to familiarize themselves with the area when Stephen’s job as a contract worker for the government required travel to nearby Youngsville and Raleigh-based customers.

“Amanda fell in love with North Carolina and we decided to find somewhere that would be a great place to live,” explained Stephen. “We came to Henderson and saw some opportunity. We saw a town that possibly could use some investment.”

Alluding to the Henderson-Vance Downtown Development Commission and the City of Henderson’s efforts to reinstate the area to North Carolina Main Street status, Pearson said part of the attraction to downtown was the revitalization movement.

“To get a Main Street running the way it’s supposed to you need to have a barbershop and a coffee shop – places where people can do communal things. A place where people can have disagreements without arguments, talk politics or religion. When we came here, we were looking for a place like that and couldn’t find one. So we knew there was a natural need for it, and we believe downtown can grow from that.”

As for the name of their new venture, Pearson said the couple needed to look no further than their own loyal dog.

“Every day when I come home, my golden retriever Sadie sits at the door, wags her tail, has a big smile on her face and is happy to see me. When you walk through our doors, we want to put a smile on your face and know that you’re welcome,” said Pearson.

Sadie’s Coffee Corner is open seven days a week; Monday – Friday from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m., Saturday & Sunday from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For more information, please visit the website at www.sadiescoffeecorner.com, check the shop out on Facebook (click here) or call (252) 557-1165.

To hear the interview with Pearson in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

(This is not a paid advertisement)

Salvation Army’s Lt. Smith Talks ‘Phenomenal’ Grand Opening of New Building

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Lt. Derrick Smith, with the Vance County Salvation Army, and Henderson Mayor Eddie Ellington were on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss the grand opening of the new Salvation Army building.

Located at 2292 Ross Mill Road in Henderson, the new location held a two-part grand opening event on Sunday, November 10. According to Smith, the 11 a.m. church worship service was attended by approximately 175 community members and leaders.

“It was a phenomenal day; the weather was beautiful,” Smith said. “It was exciting to have so many from our community and to have the support of the community all in one place, at one time.”

At a separate 3 p.m. service, Smith and his wife Lt. Odessa Smith welcomed guests for a ribbon-cutting and official grand opening celebration.

Ellington, who was in attendance, echoed Smith’s assessment on the celebratory mood of the event and said many citizens are likely unaware of the impact the Salvation Army has on the community.

“The mission of the Salvation Army throughout the world and our community speaks volumes. A lot of people don’t know the impact the organization has right here in Henderson and Vance County,” Ellington stated.

Also present for the occasion were former Salvation Army Captain Rick Langley and wife Angie, who headed the local operation from 2012 until their retirement in June 2019. Smith said the event was special for the Langleys because they saw the new building through from concept to completion.

“They are really good folks,” said Smith. “They were here for about seven years, so to follow behind them makes our job easier.”

With the grand opening, the Salvation Army is now fully operational in the Ross Mill Road location. Smith said the first order of business will be to focus on Christmas efforts, such as the annual red kettle campaign that begins Friday, November 15.

The Salvation Army also operates its new store – located at 218 Raleigh Road in Henderson – while maintaining the former store – located at 222 W. Montgomery Street – for storage and organization purposes.

The completion of the new location and planned ball fields on the 40-acre lot located near Mako Medical Laboratories and Vance Charter School will allow the Smiths to focus on what previous studies have indicated is a big need for the community – youth services.

In a prior interview with WIZS, Odessa Smith said, “One of the biggest needs is youth development. We would like to have after-school programs, mentoring programs and partnerships with local schools and other community organizations.”

While the Salvation Army will continue to work with community partners to expand services, Smith said the mission of the organization is strong and already established.

“This is a building for the community,” said Smith. “It will help us in our mission to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.”

To hear the interview with Smith and Ellington in its entirety, click here. Their segment begins at the 22:20 mark. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

FREE Fresh Produce Available at Second Thurs. Food Distribution

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-Information courtesy Betty Boyd

The Second Thursday Food Distribution will be held at the Vance County Regional Farmers Market off Beckford Drive in Henderson on Thursday, November 14, 2019, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. No identification or paperwork is required to receive food.

Participants remain in their vehicles and volunteers place a box of fresh vegetables and fruits in the vehicle at no charge. One box is available per adult.

Law enforcement is on-site to assist with traffic control

This is a joint partnership of St. James Missionary Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of Henderson to bring fresh produce to the citizens of Vance County.

Mark Your Holiday Calendar for ‘Cookies & Milk With Santa’

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-Information courtesy Tara Goolsby, Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Facilities Supervisor, Aycock Recreation Center

Mark your calendar for “Cookies & Milk With Santa” at the Aycock Rec. Center, 307 Carey Chapel Rd., Henderson, on Saturday, December 14, 2019, from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Enjoy free cookies and milk, make a holiday ornament and visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your camera to photograph your child with Santa!

For more information, please call Crystal Allen at (252) 431-6091 or email callen@ci.henderson.nc.us.

News 11/12/19

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Town Talk 11/11/19: Upcoming Veterans Dog Walk ‘Therapeutic’ for Dogs, Participants

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

Mark Ferri, veteran and Vance County Animal Shelter volunteer, was on Monday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program to discuss the shelter’s upcoming Veterans Dog Walk event.

The event – Paws, Tails and Boots – will be held at the shelter, located at 1243 Brodie Rd. in Henderson, on Saturday, November 16, 2019, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The public is welcome, with veterans, first responders and their families strongly encouraged to attend.

During the event, shelter volunteers and staff will be on-hand to answer questions and encourage participants who are eligible to commit to adopting an animal.

Founded by Ferri in 2016, the dog walk serves the twofold purpose of matching animals with loving owners and raising awareness of mental health issues.

According to Ferri, traumatic experiences are something that the shelter dogs and many veterans and first responders have in common and interactions between the two can be healing.

“It’s very therapeutic,” Ferri said. “A lot of people that have participated in the dog walk in the past have told me they feel like it’s a real help to them; the dogs love it too. You can come out and enjoy yourself without any kind of judgment from anyone or fear of being ridiculed or embarrassed.”

Fortunately, according to Ferri, society is becoming more aware and responsive to PTSD and other mental health issues. “Society isn’t very kind to the mentally ill; however, a lot of people are trying to turn that tide to get away from the stigma.”

To hear the interview with Ferri in its entirety, please click the play button below. Listen live to WIZS’ Town Talk Monday-Friday at 11 a.m. on 1450AM, 100.1 FM or online at www.wizs.com.

Raleigh Ringers to Bring Holiday Cheer to McGregor Hall

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-Information courtesy McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center

McGregor Hall Performing Arts Center will be filled with the sounds of the holidays on Friday, December 6, 2019, with a special one-night performance by The Raleigh Ringers. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

As seen annually on UNC-TV!

The Raleigh Ringers’ holiday handbell concert runs the gamut of song selections from old yuletide favorites to Vince Guaraldi’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” score and other sounds of the season.

Tickets may be purchased by:

DROP-IN: 201 Breckenridge Street, Henderson, N.C. Monday – Friday 1:30 – 5:30 p.m

CALL: (252) 598-0662 (M-F 1:30 – 5:30 p.m.)

CLICK HERE: www.McGregorHall.org  (Use the eTix official site, online fees apply)

(This is not a paid advertisement)

Poplar Creek Baptist to Host ‘Unashamed’ at Gospel Singing, Dinner Show

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Poplar Creek Baptist Church will hold a gospel singing and dinner show with “Unashamed,” a Southern Gospel Quartet, in the Family Life Center on Friday, November 22, 2019.

A hot dog dinner will be held from 6 until 7:15 p.m.; music will be performed from 7:15 until 8:15 p.m.

All ages are welcome and childcare will be provided.

Poplar Creek Baptist is located at 1371 Poplar Creek Rd. in Henderson.