Sunday at 6:06 p.m., WIZS received a tornado warning for Vance County from the National Weather Service. At one point, the radar-indicated tornado was forecast to pass very near downtown Henderson.
On Monday, Brian Short, director of Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations, told WIZS News that there was no confirmed touchdown of a tornado or any damage reported. According to Short, callers to the 911 center indicated the tornado passed north of town and was seen along mile markers 214 and 215, off I-85.
A video of the tornado, captured on cell phone, has been posted to Facebook and can be viewed on WIZS’ Facebook page.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/national-weather-service-logo.jpg266504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2018-09-17 12:07:032018-09-17 12:56:45Vance Co. Tornado Not Confirmed by Local Officials; No Damage Reported
Internationally televised, Emmy award-winning television show, Fishing University, will soon make Vance County home, filming an episode to air in 2019 and featuring not only Kerr Lake but local dining, activities and attractions. The film crew, along with hosts/fishing legends Charlie Ingram and Ray Brazier, will arrive on September 24, to fish and film.
Fishing University holds a viewership of more than 63 million households, airing in all 50 states as well as in 51 additional countries. Vance County Tourism Development Authority is serving as point-of-contact for the project, viewing it as a strategic marketing opportunity to reach a target audience of potential guests seeking an outdoor travel destination.
Charlie Ingram and Ray Brazier with Fishing University. (Photo Credit Fishing University)
“When Fishing University reached out to us with their proposal, Norman and I knew it would be a natural fit to accompany our other marketing and advertising efforts for 2019,” said Pam Hester, executive director of the Vance County Tourism Development Authority. “We will not only be able to put a spotlight on the world-renowned fishing opportunities in our region but also feature the community, culture and activities that guests can experience while visiting.”
Within the 30-minute episode, a 90-second promotional spot will be included. The spots will be created to mirror the marketing efforts of the Tourism Department. Hosts Ingram and Brazier will also include numerous mentions of their location during the show.
In addition to filming promotional spots and fishing, the hosts and film crew will also present a one-hour program at Vance County High School to share with area youth the importance of attaining an education and the outdoor career options available to them. The session will offer a “Q & A” time with a discussion of majors such as communications, marketing, biology, wildlife management and animal husbandry. The school will have a 90-second segment within the show.
“We are proud to welcome Fishing University to Vance County,” said Hester. “Coverage such as this will be seen by an audience of anglers that travel and have expendable income which will be good from both a branding and economic impact perspective.”
The competitive fishing show is packed with how-to tips and tricks of the trade, making it popular among competitive amateur and professional anglers. Viewers of World Fishing Network and the Outdoor and Sportsman Channels tend to spend more time on the water and are more active consumers than those of competing networks.
About Fishing University
As one of the longest-running Outdoor TV shows, Fishing University is celebrating 33 years of bringing quality fishing programming to avid viewers. Each week they hit the water accompanied by friends and professionals in the industry, as viewers are engaged in a competitive show that is packed full of ‘how to tips’. Not only is the show exciting, but it also lets people in on ‘tricks of the trade’ from some of the very best in the outdoor industry. Fishing University can be seen on the Outdoor Channel, World Fishing Network and The Sportsman Channel in all 50 states and 51 other countries. To see the entire schedule go to www.fishingu.com, and be sure to visit Fishing University on Facebook.
Sponsors of Fishing University Include Charger Boats, Honda Marine, Jackson Kayak, Spro, Raymarine, T-H Marine, Power Pole, Orion Coolers, Cashion Rods, Strike King Lures, StormR, Cedar Creek Beef Jerky, Soft Science Footwear, Lithium Pros Batteries, Schrader Orthopedic & Stem Cell Treatment Center, Shooting Concepts, Marine Master Trailers, Gruv Fishing, BALSAX Line and Nite Track.
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Fishing-University.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2018-09-14 17:00:212018-09-14 16:23:36Television Show ‘Fishing University’ to Feature Kerr Lake, Vance Co. Attractions
WIZS will be bringing you updates on Hurricane Florence as new information is received. Please check the WIZS website, Facebook page and listen live to WIZS 1450 AM and 100.1 FM for updates. The latest briefing from the National Weather Service can be found by clicking here.
-Information courtesy Brian K. Short, Director of Emergency Operations, Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations and the National Weather Service
Hurricane Florence has made landfall and continues to slow. It is expected to slowly meander southwest into and across South Carolina through the weekend.
PRIMARY THREAT: Catastrophic flash and eventually river flooding is expected to persist through the weekend and into early next week. Strong sustained winds and gusts persisting into the weekend. Strongest gusts expected across the southeastern coastal plain of NC. Risk for short-lived and weak tornadoes as the rain bands push ashore this evening through Saturday afternoon. This event is now on-going. Please heed any evacuation orders that have been issued and continue to monitor the forecast for updates.
Three Key Points
1. Wind impacts continue from Hurricane Florence today, but the primary flooding threat is just beginning as the eye continues to stall just inland.
2. Initial heavy rainfall will cause Flash Flooding (ongoing) with prolonged moderate to major river flooding continuing into next week, especially across southern and eastern N.C.
3. Travel will likely become more treacherous today and tonight thanks to flooding. Dangerous winds coupled with saturated ground will also result in downed trees which will likely culminate in widespread and prolonged power outages.
Overall, Vance County seems to be weathering the storm pretty well.
Presently, Vance County remains under a local State of Emergency.
We have one active emergency shelter located at the former Eaton Jonson Middle School building in Henderson. The shelter currently has 40 occupants and we have noticed the numbers increasing this morning. We plan to leave the shelter open throughout the day today. We may decide to close the shelter later this evening but, worst-case scenario, we should be safe to close it tomorrow morning.
Our pet shelter also remains open. Presently we are sheltering one animal whose owner is in the shelter at Eaton Johnson Middle School.
We are receiving a few calls reporting downed trees and other minor storm-related calls but nothing major so far.
According to Duke Energy, as of now, Vance County has a total of 1,052 customers without power. This is down from over 2,200 overnight.
Our E-911 center remains overstaffed and the Emergency Operations Center remains activated with EM staff only. The EOC will close once we stand down the emergency shelter.
We still anticipate gusty winds and periods of hard rain today as bands from the hurricane move through our area.
Everyone, please stay safe.
Updated Friday, Sept. 14 at 8:30 a.m.
-Information courtesy Brian K. Short, Director of Emergency Operations, Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations and the National Weather Service
Hurricane Florence has been downgraded to a category 1 storm with 90 mph winds along parts of the coast.
Vance County has experienced some periods of heavy rain at times, as well as some gusts of 35 mph but, so far, we have faired pretty well.
Presently we have 34 people in our emergency shelter at the former Eaton Johnson Middle School building on Beckford Dr. The shelter will remain open today.
We remain under a local state of emergency but, so far, we have not experienced anything major as a result of the storm.
We will continue to forward along additional updates as they are received.
Looks like we may have dodged the wrath of Florence. Based on the forecasts for our area, it appears it will be safe for us to open this Saturday. Hopefully, our power will be on and we will be operating BAS – Business As Usual. (Check our FaceBook page Saturday morning to be sure). This means it will be the perfect opportunity for you to get out and shop for fresh local produce, meats, eggs and unique crafts. (By Saturday morning you will probably be going stir-crazy cooped up inside, so come on out and visit with us awhile.). Though it may be a bit windy and rainy, remember, our farmers market is enclosed so you will stay dry and comfortable while you shop. See you at the VCRFM on Saturday!
What You Will Find at the Market This Week
Apples, beets, butter beans, collards, cucumbers, eggs, eggplant, garlic, grapes, green beans, herbs, kale, lettuce, mixed greens, mustard greens, okra, onions, peaches, peppers, pork, potatoes, peas (crowder and purple hull), squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes (green, red and heirloom), turnips, & zucchini. You may even find watermelon!
We also have plenty of canned vegetables, honey, molasses, salsa, chow-chow, BBQ sauces, jellies, jams, soaps, bath salts, scented candles, jewelry, cupcakes and unique handmade crafts.
Anticipated Vendors – September 15
Adcock Farm Donation Station Eclectic Peacock
Jerri’s Things
JW Creek Farms
LouMag Ent. Pretty Tough Stuff
Short’s Family Farms Vann’s Jams & Produce
Winter Soap Co.
Woodwick Designs
and perhaps a few more
Contacts:
Market Manager: Tracy Madigan @ 252-598-0814
Extension Agent: Paul McKenzie @ 252-438-8188
VCRFM open Wednesdays & Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 210 South Park Dr., Henderson
VCRFM Welcomes SNAP/EBT
The Farmers Market building is available for rent. Contact Annette Roberson, Vance County Cooperative Extension Center, 252-438-8188 for pricing and available dates.
(This is not a paid advertisement)
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wizsfbresize_0001s_0055_Farmers-Market-Edited-e1461854851601.png.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2018-09-14 16:58:442018-09-14 16:22:55Go With the ‘Flo’ – Vance Co. Farmers Market Will be Open This Sat.
-Information courtesy Jerry Parrish, West End Baptist Church
Due to Hurricane Florence, West End Baptist Church has rescheduled their Fish Fry Fundraiser from Monday, September 17 to the next Monday, September 24 at 220 Seafood Restaurant from 4 to 7 p.m.
Cost is $7 per plate and dinner will include trout, slaw, french fries and hush puppies. Eat in or take out; drink with dine-in only.
All proceeds will be used to support local ministries which include ACTS, Lifeline Ministries, Rebuilding Hope and many others.
(This is not a paid advertisement)
https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/West-End-Baptist-Church.jpg265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2018-09-14 16:57:462018-09-14 16:21:59West End Baptist Fish Fry Fundraiser Rescheduled
-Information and flyer courtesy Tara Goolsby, Henderson-Vance Recreation and Parks Facilities Supervisor, Aycock Recreation Center
Youth basketball registration will be held Monday, September 17 through Saturday, November 3, 2018, at the Aycock Recreation Center.
Leagues will include:
Boys and Girls Mighty Mite League – Ages 4-6
Boys Pee Wee, Midget, Junior and Senior Leagues – Ages 7-18
Girls Pee Wee, Midget Leagues – Ages 7-14
Ages are determined by January 1, 2019.
Cost to cover registration and insurance includes:
$40 for in-county residents
$30 for those who played baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball or football in the 2018 season.
$60 for out-of-county residents
For more information, please contact Steve Osborne at (252) 438-2670; sosborne@ci.henderson.nc.us or Victor Hunt at (252) 438-3408; vhunt@ci.henderson.nc.us
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https://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Youth-Basketball-Registration-2018-19.png265504WIZS Staffhttps://wizs.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/wizswebsitelogoimage.pngWIZS Staff2018-09-14 16:56:172018-09-14 16:21:27Youth Basketball Registration at Aycock Rec. Center Ongoing Sept. 17 – Nov. 3
Due to potentially dangerous travel conditions from Hurricane Florence, all Maria Parham physician practice offices are closed until Monday, September 17. The hospital, including our Emergency Department, remains open to receive and care for patients.
Please stay tuned to our Facebook page for important updates throughout the duration of the storm.
WIZS will be bringing you updates on Hurricane Florence as new information is received. Please check the WIZS website, Facebook page and listen live to WIZS 1450 AM and 100.1 FM for updates throughout the week.
The latest briefing from the National Weather Service can be found by clicking here. The forecast – including rainfall amounts, wind speeds and storm direction – is remaining steady from earlier today.
Updated Thursday, Sept. 13 at 10:30 a.m.
We should begin to feel the effects of the storm late this evening and tonight with conditions gradually worsening overnight and into tomorrow. They have increased our rainfall potential slightly but, other than that, nothing much has changed.
We have now officially decided to open the emergency shelter at Eaton Johnson Middle School located on Beckford Drive in Henderson at 5 p.m. today. Please DO NOT arrive early as no one will be there and the school will likely be locked until that time.
We are using our CODE RED system to get this message out to all of our citizens this morning. If you are not already signed up to receive messages on that system, please visit our web page at www.vancecounty.org/EM and click on the Emergency Alert System link to sign up. This system will be used to issue important notices prior to and after the storm’s impact.
We will be activating the Emergency Operations Center at 5 p.m. this evening and will begin 24-hour EOC operations at that time. As of now, we are at Readiness Level 1, which is our highest level in preparation for the storm. The 911 Center will be overstaffed as of 11 a.m. today and will remain that way throughout the storm. We are expecting the communications center to be extremely busy during the storm, so we are asking residents NOT to dial 911 for general questions to ensure that true emergency calls are able to get through.
Please “like” Vance County Emergency Operations on Facebook to stay up to date on what is happening with the storm. We will also continue to forward along all relevant information as it is received.
Hurricane Florence is approaching the coast and will slow today, and make landfall early Friday along the southern North Carolina coast, then slowly meander southwest into and across South Carolina. Confidence is HIGH that the event will occur; MODERATE confidence in expected impacts.
Strong sustained winds and gusts expected on Friday, likely persisting into the weekend. Strongest gusts expected across the southeastern coastal plain of NC. Flash and eventually river flooding likely beginning this evening and persisting through the weekend and into early next week. A risk for short-lived and weak tornadoes as the rain bands push ashore this evening through Saturday afternoon.
YOUR PREPARATIONS SHOULD BE IN PLACE NO LATER THAN MID-DAY TODAY!
Three Key Points
1. Hurricane Warning now in effect for Sampson and Wayne Counties. Tropical Storm Warning for Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Johnston, Lee, Moore, Nash, Richmond, Wake and Wilson counties.
2. Prolonged, life-threatening inland flooding event from heavy rain is expected across much of southern and eastern N.C.
3. Dangerous winds will also result in downed trees which will likely culminate in widespread and prolonged power outages.
For a much more detailed breakdown of the current forecast, including expected wind speed and rainfall amounts in our area, visit the National Weather Service website by clicking here.
