Tag Archive for: #vancecountynews

New VGCC President to Address Graduates as College Celebrates 50 Years

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-Press Release, Vance-Granville Community College

Dr. Rachel Desmarais, who earlier this year became the seventh president of Vance-Granville Community College, will serve as the principal commencement speaker for the college’s graduation exercises on Friday, May 10, 2019. As VGCC celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Desmarais follows in the footsteps of the school’s first president, Dr. Donald Mohorn, who was the commencement speaker at the first such ceremony, back in 1970.

Dr. Rachel Desmarais, who earlier this year became the seventh president of Vance-Granville Community College, will serve as the principal commencement speaker for the college’s graduation exercises on Friday, May 10, 2019. (VGCC Photo)

Jose Angel De Leon of Henderson, president of the VGCC Student Government Association, will be the student speaker.

Nearly 500 students are scheduled to be honored during ceremonies beginning at 6 p.m. at the gazebo by the lake on the college’s Main Campus in Vance County. For those unable to attend the event in person, VGCC will broadcast a live video feed from the ceremony online on its YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/VanceGranvilleCC).

The VGCC Board of Trustees selected Dr. Desmarais to become the college president in December 2018, while she was serving as the executive vice president and chief operating officer of Forsyth Technical Community College.

Once a student at Forsyth Tech, Desmarais became an adjunct instructor at the community college from 1996 to 1999 while also working in the private sector. She joined Forsyth Tech full-time in 2002 and served in a variety of academic and administrative roles over the next 16 years.

Jose Angel De Leon of Henderson, president of the VGCC Student Government Association, will be the student speaker. (VGCC Photo)

Desmarais earned her doctorate of philosophy in instructional design and technology from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va., in 2015 after getting her master’s of science in information technology management from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 2003. She earned a bachelor of music degree in voice performance from Mars Hill College in 1992.

She was also among fewer than 40 aspiring and emerging community college presidents nationwide who were chosen for the Aspen Institute Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence in 2017-2018.

De Leon is graduating from VGCC with a degree in Criminal Justice Technology. A graduate of Norlina Christian School, he has earned Dean’s List and President’s List honors at the college and has been inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa honor society.

De Leon plans to continue his education at North Carolina Central University, where he will complete a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. His long-term plan is to earn his Ph.D. in criminal justice or criminology and become a college professor.

Students serving as graduation marshals will be Caroline Williamson of Bullock; Ebony Cotton of Franklinton; Hannah Edwards, Evin Swilley, April Zuniga-Trejo and Leslie Zuniga-Trejo, all of Henderson; Gricel Arroyo of Louisburg; Miranda Brown of Oxford; Rana Alashmali of Timberlake; and Ronnie Brodie, Jr., of Wake Forest.

 

April Zuniga-Trejo of Henderson

Caroline Williamson of Bullock

Ebony Cotton of Franklinton

Evin Swilley of Henderson

Gricel Arroyo of Louisburg

Hannah Edwards of Henderson

Leslie Zuniga-Trejo of Henderson

Miranda Brown of Oxford

Rana Alashmali – Timberlake

Ronnie Brodie, Jr., of Wake Forest

Vance Co. Middle School in Need of Volunteer Test Proctors

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Vance County Middle School is in need of volunteer test proctors to assist with upcoming State Testing.

As a proctor, you are required to attend one brief 30-minute training about what proctoring entails. Proctor training will be offered on Thursday, May 9, 2019, at 10:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. and Thursday, May 16 at 10:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.

If interested in helping, please sign up using the link https://bit.ly/VCMSproctors.

Thank you for your support! If you have any question, please feel free to contact Dr. Webster-Caroon at (919) 939-9877 or lwebster@vcs.k12.nc.us.

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

Local Author Opens Book & Gift Store in Downtown Henderson

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Angie Ellington, local author and owner of the recently opened Calico Paw Books & Gifts in downtown Henderson, was the guest of honor on Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.

Located at 131 S. Garnett St. across from the former Wildflower Café building, the independent book store held its grand opening on Friday, April 27. Coincidentally, grand opening activities coincided with the date for this year’s National Independent Book Store Day.

Ellington said her vision for the store was born, in part, from her desire to make book buying more of an “experience” than one would get from purchasing online from a big retailer.

“I thought it would be nice to have something downtown where people can come in, pick up a book, sit down, buy a cup of coffee and read in the store,” Ellington explained.

As for the store’s name, Ellington was inspired by her own Calico cat, Miss Callie Ellington. A canvas print of Callie even hangs in the store for those interested in seeing the business’s namesake.

Of course, the store’s main draw is its selection of affordable books. Appealing to a diverse crowd, Calico Paw carries new and discounted books for all ages in a variety of genres. In fact, Ellington said a large selection of books is currently marked down to 50% off.

While primarily a book store, Ellington is also excited about the gift items she has in stock, including Huntsboro Hemp Company’s CBD products, bath and body products, candles, coffee mugs, drink koozies and hand-crafted items made by local merchants.

Much like her own independently published books, local and “indie” authors have a special place in Ellington’s heart, and in her store.

Originally from Oxford, Ellington grew up pursuing creative endeavors and participated in local theater. After graduating from UNC-W with a degree in Elementary Education, she taught grade school in Wilmington for several years before moving back to the local area.

Two years ago, Ellington began pursuing her creative interests by writing, and later self-publishing, her first book “Christmas in Fair Bend.” Four additional books quickly followed – “Spring in Lilac Glen,” “Dancing by the Moonlight,” “Love at the Salted Caramel Café” and “Autumn at Apple Hill.”

In describing the style of her books, Ellington said she writes “cozy and sweet romances with a bit of sass.”

You’ll find Ellington’s books, along with the works of many other independent and traditionally published authors, at Calico Paw Books & Gifts.

Store hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; two Saturdays a month – times may vary.

For additional information, including store updates, Saturday hours and special events, please visit Calico Paw’s website at www.calicopawbooks.com or visit the store’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

To hear the Town Talk interview with Angie Ellington in its entirety, click here.

 

 

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.

Battling Cancer: Pancake Supper Benefiting Teresa & Cameron Fuqua

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The City of Henderson Operations Center, 900 South Beckford Dr. in Henderson, will be the site of a pancake dinner on Friday, May 24, 2019, from 4 until 7 p.m.

Plates are $7 for all-you-can-eat. All proceeds benefit Teresa and Cameron Fuqua, a mother-son team battling cancer.

Thanks for your support!

(This is not a paid advertisement)

City of Henderson Logo

Bypass of Untreated Wastewater Enters Red Bud Creek

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-Esther J. McCrackin, City Clerk, City of Henderson, NC

Bypass of Untreated Wastewater

The City of Henderson’s Sewer Collection System bypassed approximately 2,100 gallons of untreated water on May 3, 2019, due to grease in the sewer main. This occurred on the Henderson Country Club golf course. The overflow entered Red Bud Creek.

North Carolina General Statute 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 the Public Services ORC, Joey Long, Jr. at 252-226-4492 or Andy Perkinson at 252-431-6117.

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!!!

City of Henderson Logo

Henderson’s Public Safety, Public Works Committees to Meet May 9

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-Information courtesy Esther J. McCrackin, City Clerk, City of Henderson

The Henderson City Council’s Public Safety Committee will meet on Thursday, May 9, 2019, at 10 a.m. in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 134 Rose Avenue. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss Fire and IT services.

The Henderson City Council’s Public Works Committee will meet on Thursday, May 9, 2019, at 11 a.m. in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 134 Rose Avenue. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss stormwater issues.

The public is welcome to observe.

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.