Onslow County Parks and Recreation January Events

Holiday on Skates

The Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department and The Recreation Station are sponsoring the “Holiday on Skates” program for Monday, January 18th, 2010 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) at The Recreation Station.  The event is open to the public and begins at 1:00 p.m. and runs through 5:00 p.m.  The cost is $4.00 per person (includes skate rental).  Free Laser Tag Game to the first 300 participants!   Children 12 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult!  Everyone skates at his or her own risk!  If you have questions about this program please call the Onslow County Parks and Recreation at 347-5332. Visit: www.onslowcountync.gov/parks


Teacher Work Day Programs

Hey kids, spend your Teacher Work Day at The Turtle Factory (Paradise Landing Sneads Ferry) Thursday January 21, 2010.  $15.00 per child and $5.00 for each additional child in the Family, enjoy Crafts, Paint a Turtle or Weave a Basket!  Friday January 22, spend the day at Wright’s Karate Center (Henderson Drive Jacksonville).  $20.00 per child, $5.00 for each additional child in the Family, Learn Child Defense Moves, Games and Activities.  7:45 am – 5:15 pm   Ages 6 – 12   Limited to the first 25 to register!  Bring lunch and snacks.  Call 347-5332 to pre-register by January 20, 2010. Visit: www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

2 Male Dogs Found in Justice Farms of Sneads Ferry

FOUND: 2 MALE DOGS BETWEEN 1-3 YEARS OLD.

LOOK LIKE BROTHERS.

FOUND IN JUSTICE FARMS WITH COLLARS, NO ID.

ONE IS WHITE WITH BINDLE SPOTS, THE OTHER IS BRINDLE.

WE ARE KEEPING THEM WARM BUT NEED TO FIND THEIR OWNERS ASAP!!

CALL CHEVY AT  (952) 905-6776

Onslow County Tax Evaluation Meeting in Sneads Ferry

Onslow County

 Tax Evaluation Meeting

at the

Sneads Ferry

 Community Center

126 Park Lane

910-327-3335

9 December 09

6:30PM

Found Dog in Creeks Edge Neighborhood

15 " (?) Beagle (Tri-color: black, white, tan)

Female, Older dog

Found in the Creeks Edge neighborhood off Turkey Point Rd (Old Folkstone road)

VERY SWEET!  Looks like she broke out of a collar or chain and has some cuts on her paws ...

did she dig her way out of your backyard while you were away for Thanksgiving? 

She is super loving and super lonely - has been howling to come inside.

Please call 910-545-6177 or 327-0505

Onslow County Christmas Events

SATURDAY WITH SANTA
The Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department and Carmike Cinemas bring you Saturday with Santa on December 5th at Carmike Cinema 16 behind the Jacksonville Mall. Santa will be arriving in a fire truck at 9:00 a.m. Visit with Santa, and then watch a G-rated movie at 10 a.m. The program is open to children 12 & under, parents must attend. The cost for this year's event is three canned goods per person. All donations go to Christmas Cheer. Goody Bags provided. Call 347-5332 or visit www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

CHRISTMAS CARD DESIGN CONTEST
The Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department, Board of Education & Jacksonville Mall will host the Christmas Card Design Contest. All entries must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 11th, at the Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department Offices at 1244 Onslow Pines Road. Age Divisions are as follows: Kindergarten, 1st & 2nd Graders, 3rd & 4th Graders, 5th & 6th Graders. Child's name, grade, and School Name must appear on the back of the card. Be Creative! Prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners in each age division. All cards will be displayed December 17 – 22 in the Jacksonville Mall. Call 347-5332 or visit www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

CHRISTMAS SKATE
The Onslow County Parks and Recreation Department and the Recreation Station are sponsoring a Christmas Skate Tuesday, December 22. The event is open to the public and begins at 1:00 p.m. and runs through 5:00 p.m. The cost is $4.00 per person (includes skate rental). Free laser Tag game to first 300. CHILDREN 12 YRS. OLD AND UNDER MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT! EVERYONE SKATES AT HIS OR HER OWN RISK! Call 347-5332 or visit: www.conslowcountync.gov/parks

3 on 3 Basketball Tournament at Dixon HS to Support Cancer Fund

3 on 3 Basketball Tournament
Sunday, November 15th 2pm
Dixon High School
$ 30 team
$ 2 entrance

All proceeds go to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund
Registration POC:
Morgan Raynor - 330-6244
Under 18 must have parental signature

2010 Onslow County Wide Property Revaluation Meeting -- TODAY!

MEETING TODAY !!

NOVEMBER 9 TH, 2009

6:30pm

Jacksonville High School Cafeteria

2010 County wide property revaluation meeting

Onslow County Senior Services hosting Medicare Update Seminar

MEDICARE UPDATE SEMINAR

(Onslow County)   Onslow County Senior Services will host a Medicare Update Seminar on November 9, 2009 from 9AM to 11AM at the Onslow County Multipurpose Complex, 4024 Richlands Highway, Jacksonville, North Carolina.        

Each year Medicare prescription drug plans change in cost and what they cover.  All people with Medicare should review the cost and coverage of their current plans; compare them with other plans available to them, and choose a plan that meets their needs and budget.  Open enrollment for Medicare Part D starts on November 15, 2009 and ends on December 31, 2009. During this time, people with Medicare can add, drop or change their prescription drug coverage. They can also select a Medicare Health Plan (Part C Advantage Plan) for their 2010 coverage. Open enrollment for Medicare Health Plans only will continue from January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2010.

Answers to your Medicare questions are available from –

-          Your County Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)  Coordinator and SHIIP Volunteers

-          A representative from the North Carolina Department of Insurance, SHIIP office to provide current information on Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Health Plans.

-          A representative from the Social Security Administration about current information on Extra Help/Low Income Subsidy.

GET THE HELP YOU DESERVE – if you have Medicare and also have limited income and resources.  You may qualify for Medicare to pay 75% or more of your prescription drug costs. 

Contact Senior Services for more information at 455-2747.

Angela Cole

Chief Operations Officer/PIO

4024 Richlands Hwy.

Jacksonville, NC   28540

P:   910/347-4717

F:   910/455-7888

E:  Angela_Cole@onslowcountync.gov

Puppy Shih Tzu Found

Puppy Shih Tzu found

11-3-09 on Old Folkstone Road area near Winery Road.

If you know of someone who lost him please call 910-389-8705

Thank you

Onslow County Swimming Pool Ordinance Goes Into Effect November 2, 2010

Swimming Pool Ordinance

           

(Onslow County)   On November 2, 2009, the Onslow County Board of Commissioners adopted an ordinance that provides requirements for the enclosure of permanently-placed outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs and spas in order to reduce drowning risks, particularly for infants and children.  

The ordinance applies to any permanent outdoor structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24 inches deep including in-ground, above-ground, and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.  A structure is considered “outdoor” if it is not totally contained within a roofed structure and surrounded on all four sides by the walls of the enclosing structure.

The ordinance requires all permanent swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas to be completely surrounded by a fence or solid wall not less than four feet in height. The fence or wall may be made of wood, metal, wire, masonry, concrete, tile, or plastic, or any combination of those materials.  Homeowners can use the wall(s) of a principal or accessory building to meet the enclosure requirement. All gates or doors opening through such fence, wall, house, or building shall have self-closing and self-latching devices for keeping the gate or door closed at all times when not in actual use.  Fence gates must open outward away from the swimming pool.

Temporary or inflatable pools that having a depth of 24 inches or less are exempt from the requirements of the ordinance, as are spas or hot tubs with a locked safety cover.  However, covers must be closed and locked when the spa or hot tub is not in use.

Violations of the ordinance are considered a public nuisance and violators may be subject to civil fines or criminal penalties if they fail to bring their swimming pool, hot tub or spa into timely compliance as established in the ordinance.

The ordinance will go into effect on November 2, 2010.  This allows pool, hot tub, and spa owners a period of one year to bring their structures into compliance.

The ordinance will be enforced by the Planning and Development Department. 

County Attorney Ron vonLembke (910) 557-7771 or Planning and Development Director Scott Shuford (910) 455-3661 can be contacted to provide additional details about this new ordinance.

Angela Cole

Chief Operations Officer/PIO

4024 Richlands Hwy.

Jacksonville, NC   28540

P:   910/347-4717

F:   910/455-7888

E:  Angela_Cole@onslowcountync.gov

Please help return Sneads Ferry MinPin Puppy

Our MinPin puppy Daisy escaped from our fenced in front yard and hasn't returned. She is my daughters dog and we are really worried about her since she is so small and it is so cold out. She is only 2-3 pounds look like a chihuahua all tan with white tips on her toes and on her right ear the tip is permantely bent back I attached a picture. She couldn't have gone far and we live down by the post office, her collar came off during her escape. Please help!

Shiang-ling Bissonnette
324 West Dunn St
Sneads Ferry, NC 28460
910.548.4133
www.myspace.com/kre8ive_enterprises

{Kre~8~ive} Enterprises
Event Planner and Photographer
"Everlasting Memories"

Onslow Tax Office to Conduct Revaluation Presentation

The Onslow County Tax Office will conduct an informational presentation on the 2010 countywide property revaluation on Monday, November 9, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. in the Jacksonville High School Cafeteria, 1021 Henderson Drive, Jacksonville, NC.

The presentation will provide a general overview of the revaluation process, examples showing comparisons of recent real estate transactions to the current assessed values, information regarding the potential impacts, and the appeals process. There will be an opportunity for questions at the end of the session. The general public is invited to attend.


For more information, contact Harry Smith at (910) 989-2200.

Holiday Christmas Flotilla - November 27, 2009

Hi,

The Holiday Boat Flotilla is still being held on the Friday after Thanksgiving. This year that would be November 27th. It will once again start at Channel Bend and go to the Assembly Building. The boats coming from North Topsail Beach and Surf City will meet at the Beach House Marina and travel to Channel Bend to form the parade. To find the time it will get to the Assembly Building please contact David Luther 328-1621 or Dave Gardner 328-3474, or watch for announcements in the papers. This is still in the planning stage.



Janet

November 7th - Soup for the Troops

I know that Social Media Works! Please make sure to post this and pass it on, if you take a moment to send this notice out and make sure that we all support the event - it will be a huge success!

SOUP TASTING BENEFIT For Hope for the Warriors: November 7th from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Wilmington restaurants provide unique soup samples to the community for a $2.00 donation per sample. The event features continuous live entertainment, a car show, beer tent and a children’s area with entertainment and activities. Proceeds benefit Hope for the Warriors - who work with US Service Members and their families nationwide that have been adversely affected by injuries or death in the line of duty. Come out and enjoy the day & soups for a great cause!

Where: Mayfaire Town Center
When: Saturday, November 7, 2009 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Cost: free admission
More Info: please visit http://www.facebook.com/inbox/readmessage.php?t=1192175938205

Let (Janet Bowen) Your Representative Know Your Opinions About Taxes

Good Afternoon,

As you well know, our Legislators recently completed a very challenging session in Raleigh. It is anticipated the forthcoming short session (commencing May 2010) will be even more of a struggle with rising cost demands and limited revenue options. In anticipation of these difficulties, the CCNCER Board started work early to formulate next session’s agenda. With scarce resources available to the Legislature, we will have to be selective and focused in crafting an agenda that will meet with favor. An important part of this planning process is the gathering of input from those we represent.  Towards that end we need your help.


With the likelihood of a forthcoming tax increase, which of the following tax reform measures would be most acceptable to you, please highlight your choices:

- An increase in the state income tax rate?
- A sales tax on services (beauty parlors, banking services, broadband services, etc)?
- An increase in the state sales tax?
- An increase in utility taxes?
- A sales tax on repair labor?
- Eliminating/reducing tax breaks for certain industries
- Implementation of a vehicle mileage tax
- Expansion of the franchise tax base
- Other? (give us your ideas)

What do you want to preserve in the tax code?

If you could make some changes, what would they be?

If you are in favor of doing away with some taxes what would you propose the State do to generate revenue?


Please email me (Janet Bowen) your comments no later than Monday, November 2nd.
jbowen@jacksonvilleonline.org

Electrical Outage to Energize new MARSOC Substation on NC210

The following electrical power outage is required in order to energize the new MARSOC substation on NC210. This requires Jones-Onslow EMC to tap their high-voltage transmission line.  In order to accomplish this task, the transmission line must be de-energized.  This action will require an outage to Sneads Ferry, the north end of Topsail Beach and the Stone Bay Rifle Range, including MARSOC (see attached).  JOEMC has planned this outage as follows:

    Date:   Wed, 4 Nov 09
    Time:   1400 - 1700 (2 p.m.-5 p.m.)

Important Sneads Ferry Events - October/Novemeber 2009

The following are some of the important upcoming events that the people of Sneads Ferry North Carolina may want to know more about and/or attend.

What:    Onslow County Tax Evaluation Meeting
Where:   Sneads Ferry Community Center 126 Park Lane
When:    6:30PM December 9, 2009
Contact: Phone 910-327-3335

What:    “Celebration of Light” A Christian Alternative to Halloween
Where:   Covenant Park (Behind Faith Covenant Church, Hwy. 172 Sneads Ferry)
When:    6-9pm Saturday, Oct. 31
Details:   Hay rides, Candy, Hotdogs, Pig Pick’n, Music, Games, Children’s Play Area
Bring a lawn chair please

What:     “Sneads Ferry Satellite Soup Kitchen” Community-Wide Thanksgiving Day Dinner
When:    11:30 AM Thursday, November 26th
Where:   Sneads Ferry Community Center
Contact: Sneads Ferry Presbyterian Church at Phones: 910-327-0166, 910-713-0221, 910-327-2169

Free Weekly Employment Assistance at Onslow Library Branches

Onslow County Public Library in partnership with the Employment Security Commission now offers free weekly employment assistance at all local library branches

(Onslow County)  Onslow County Public Library (OCPL) and the Employment Security Commission (ESC) have partnered together to bring weekly ESC services to all local library branches. Visitors to Onslow County Public Library will now be able to receive the same services they would receive at their local ESC office including education information, work searches, veteran services, filing for unemployment benefits and much more. An ESC employment consultant will be onsite at the library on a weekly basis at the times and locations listed below:

·         Every Tuesday from 9 am to noon at the Swansboro Branch Library

·         Every Wednesday from 9 am to noon at the Richlands Branch Library

·         Every Thursday from 9 am to noon at the Main Library in Jacksonville

·         Every Friday from 10 am to noon at the Sneads Ferry Branch Library

For more information, please contact Onslow County Public Library at 910.455.7350, the Employment Security Commission at 910.347.2121, or visit OCPL online at www.onslowcountync.gov/library.

Dixon Bulldogs are #1 according to North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association

According to the Top 15 1-A Boy's soccer teams as ranked by the North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association as of Monday, October 26, 2009, the Dixon Bulldogs are ranked #1 in the state. This is a move up from #2 last week in the same poll.

Dixon is scheduled with one upcoming games this week as East Carteret visits our Dixon Bulldogs Thursday, October 29, 2009 @ 6:00 pm. This will be senior night for our outstanding group of young men.

Come support your Dixon Bulldogs soccer team as they continue their winning tradition finishing the 2009 regular season and begin the playoffs!

Get Your Fill Of Local, Fresh Caught Wild Shrimp

14 count (super large) shrimp for $3.50 lb

Large order discounts available

Tim Edens: 910-389-6517

Thank you

Angie Edens

And, please don’t forget about our Sneads Ferry Fish Houses:

Buy American !

Buy Wild Caught Shrimp !!

Did you know that there is a law that requires grocery stores fresh seafood markets to display where your seafood is from ?

So please buy our local American Shrimp.

Since our grocery store doesn't have a fresh seafood section (because it can not compete with our fresh local seafood) you might as well buy it right from the fishing docks from our friendly local fishermen at:

Davis Seafood: 327-4081 - 155 Davis Lane (near the high rise bridge)

Bowman’s Seafood: 327-8931 - 137 Everett Ln. (On the Landing)

Grants Oyster House: 327-3351 - 1142 Old Folkstone Rd. (next to Grants Creek Bridge)

Millis Seafood: 327-4571 - 816 Mullet Ln. (On the Landing)

Sneads Ferry Seafood: 327-7741 - 235 Wheeler Creek (next to Wheeler Creek Bridge on the Landing)

Everett’s Seafood: 327-2216 - 121 Hall Point Rd (behind Riverview Cafe')

Larry’s Crab Shack: 389-6492 / 389-2750 - Hard & Soft - 1st left on Fulchers Landing off of Wheeler Creek Rd. (On the Landing)

The Shrimp Shack: 327-2789 (Next to Ricks Restaurant on Hwy 210) 1342 Hwy 210

Sneads Ferry Subway Anniversary -- Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009

Our very own
Sneads Ferry
Subway Sandwich Shop

327-3222

(Hwy 210 between the traffic lights)

Is having a

one year Anniversary sale

Tomorrow

24 October 2009

9am – 10pm

ANY foot long sub will only be 5 bucks

And if you want to

make it a value meal

you can add a drink and chips,

both for only 1 more dollar

And, Amy’s other

Subway in Surf City

329-0800

(near the mainland traffic light on Hwy 50 & 210)

Will also feature the same sandwich specials

So come on out and wish

Link & Amy Cook

and all of the original subway employees

a very happy 1st anniversary !!

Historic Yopp's Meeting House Fundraiser, Sunday, 25 Oct 2009

Great art... Great cause... we just NEED you!

Proceeds from the purchase of these paintings will go to

the Friends of the Yopp's Meeting House

for much needed repairs on the historic building.

They will
be available at

Thurston's Art Gallery

Sunday

25 Oct 32009

Thank you in advance...
.
Please share this invitation with all your friends and patrons.

See you all Sunday afternoon!

Dixon High School Wins 6 of 7 Fall Sports 1-A Conference Titles

Congratulations to all the Dixon High School coaches, faculty and students who have performed so admirably winning 6 of the possible 7 Fall sports 1-A Conference titles.

There is a very nice story on the Varsity pages of the Jacksonville Daily News at Dixon wins six conference titles this fall.

North Carolinians Can Find Flu Shots Online

CCME website helps patients and providers

Cary, NC – For the eighth straight year, The Carolinas Center for Medical Excellence (CCME) is providing a Web-based list of flu clinics in the Carolinas. To find a clinic near you, visit CCME’s Flu Clinic Finder at www.thecarolinascenter.org/fcf. Last flu season, more than 3,595 flu clinics were listed on the Flu Clinic Finder, attracting more than 39,000 Web hits. This season, CCME expects to have just as many or more listings to provide you with an abundance of choices when you are ready to get your flu shot.

A vaccine to protect against 2009 H1N1 influenza (“swine flu”) is expected to be available this fall. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009 and is different from the flu virus that is typically experienced in the United States every flu season. The vaccine for seasonal flu is not expected to protect against the 2009 H1N1 flu.

In June, the World Health Organization declared the 2009 H1N1 flu a pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently estimated that, in the United States, more than one million cases of 2009 H1N1 flu have occurred. The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu are expected to be similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu. They include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures. These measures will continue to be important after the 2009 H1N1 vaccine is available because they can prevent the spread of other viruses that cause respiratory infections.

Seasonal Influenza
Surveys by the CDC show that each year about 200,000 people in the United States are hospitalized, and about 36,000 people die because of the flu. Flu and pneumonia together constitute the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Studies show that, in a typical year, more than 1,600 North Carolinians 65 years and older will die of complications from flu and pneumonia. Patients who get the flu are more likely to get pneumonia – one of the leading causes of death for older adults.

Last year, 73.0 percent of North Carolinians 65 years and older received the flu shot, while 68.7 percent received the pneumonia shot. The CDC reports that a disproportionate number of African Americans and Hispanic Americans refuse the flu shot each year. The Healthy People 2010 Goal remains at 90 percent for both pneumococcal and influenza immunizations.

The CDC has announced that December 6-12, 2009, is National Influenza Vaccination Week. This event is designed to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as fostering greater use of the flu vaccine through the months of November, December, and beyond.

Medicare Covers Vaccines
For those who are Medicare-eligible, Medicare Part B covers the costs of the flu and pneumonia shots. To find a clinic near you, start by typing in your ZIP code at www.thecarolinascenter.org/fcf. Medicare will also cover immunizations for H1N1 influenza. There will be no coinsurance or copayment applied to this benefit, and people with Medicare will not have to meet their deductible. For more information on the Medicare policy for 2009 H1N1 influenza, visit the CMS website at www.cms.hhs.gov/H1N1/.

MYTHS ABOUT SEASONAL FLU With flu season just around the corner, now is a good time to separate fact from fiction on the flu. Here are some common myths that may prevent some people from receiving flu shots: Myth 1: The flu is dangerous only to the elderly. While the flu is especially dangerous to older adults, it is even more dangerous to those who have diabetes, chronic illness, or a weakened immune system. You’re also at higher risk if you live in a nursing home. Myth 2: The flu shot can cause the flu. Not true! The flu shot is made from a killed virus, so it is impossible for the shot to give you the flu. The flu shot is your best weapon against the flu. Myth 3: You don’t need a flu shot every year. You do need to get a flu shot every year because the flu virus changes from year to year. Myth 4: After November, it’s too late to get the flu shot. While it’s true that the best time to get the shot is between mid-October and mid-November, the flu virus can be spread as late as March. Myth 5: Flu and pneumonia shots are the same. The pneumonia shot is a different shot; it can be given any time during the year. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you. Myth 6: As long as I don’t eat or drink after someone who has the flu, I won’t get it. The flu is very contagious. In fact, if someone who has the virus coughs or sneezes near you, the virus can be spread to you through the air you breathe.

CCME Supports MRSA Awareness Month

Cary, NC – The Carolinas Center for Medical Excellence (CCME) is pleased to announce its support of MRSA Awareness Month in October to heighten awareness of how MRSA is transmitted and how to protect ourselves and others.

MRSA stands for Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. These infections are resistant to many antibiotics and can be hard to treat. Nationally, MRSA infections kill thousands of people each year and increase health care costs by more than $2.5 billion.

As part of its quality improvement workwith health care facilities in North and South Carolina,CCME is working to reduce the number of MRSA infections through its contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

“Nationally, invasive MRSA infections occur in approximately 94,000 persons each year, resulting in about 19,000 deaths each year,” said Melinda Postal, CCME director of communications. “At CCME, we are working closely with hospitals across the Carolinas to reduce the incidence and transmission of MRSA in our two states.”

Paul E. McGann, MD, CMS deputy chief medical officer said, “We, at CMS, are deeply concerned about the upward trend in MRSA infections over the past few decades, particularly in those patients who are already acutely ill enough to require inpatient hospitalization. By working with hospitals across the state, Quality Improvement Organizations [such as CCME] can serve as ‘go-to’ resources for slowing—and hopefully one day, stopping—the spread of this debilitating complication of treatment.”

QIOs are working as part of CMS’ National Patient Safety Initiative to reduce patient harm using proven strategies that improve patient safety. “Reducing the rates of hospital-acquired MRSA is one of the key areas where we, as a health care community, can come together and implement common-sense solutions to reduce or eliminate causes of patient harm that result from patients’ interactions with the health care system, rather than from other causes,” Dr. McGann said. “Reducing MRSA rates in health care facilities will by definition increase the value of health care services as it produces higher quality care for Medicare beneficiaries, and by turn, all patients.”

Health care organizations and community groups are encouraged to participate in MRSA Awareness Month by organizing an event or presentation in their community to help raise awareness of MRSA and how to prevent it. For more information, please visit www.worldmrsaday.org.

For more information about the work of CCME in the Carolinas, visit www.thecarolinascenter.org.

North Carolina’s Teen Pregnancy Rate Hits 30-Year Low

N.C.’s Teen Pregnancy Rate Hits 30-Year Low;

Experts Credit Evidence-Based Prevention Strategies

DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina’s teen pregnancy rate fell to a 30-year low in 2008 according to new data released on Thursday. Teenage girls in North Carolina had 217 fewer babies in 2008 than in 2007.

The new data, compiled by the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS), shows that 58.6 out of every 1000 teen girls ages 15 to 19 became pregnant in 2008. The new rate reflects a 7% decrease from the 2007 rate of 63 per 1000 girls. A small portion of this decrease can be attributed to a change in the way the state demographer calculates total population.

Teen pregnancy rates in North Carolina have consistently decreased since 1991 following a spike in the late 1980s. Pregnancy rates fell across all age, racial and ethnic categories, as well as in all but 25 North Carolina counties. Abortion rates also decreased in all categories.

While teen pregnancy rates declined across the board, significant disparities still exist between racial and ethnic groups and between rural and urban residents. The pregnancy rate among white teens was 47.8 per 1000 girls, while the corresponding rate for minority teens was 77.7. The rate specifically for Hispanic teens was 147.5. North Carolina’s underserved rural counties typically saw higher rates of teen pregnancy.

Evidence-Based Strategies Credited

Experts credit the trend toward targeted implementation of evidence-based approaches to pregnancy prevention as one cause of the improvement in pregnancy rates. Evidence-based approaches are rooted in behavioral research and have been evaluated for proof of their effectiveness.

“North Carolina has been smart to leverage investments from the General Assembly and the Centers for Disease Control to bring proven pregnancy prevention strategies to North Carolina,” says Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Campaign of North Carolina (APPCNC) Executive Director Kay Phillips. “This new data shows that we are headed in the right direction, and that we must keep pressing forward so that more communities can benefit from these tools.”

The Anson County Partnership for Children has positively impacted their teen pregnancy rate by implementing the Adolescent Parenting Program (APP), a program created by NC DHHS’s Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiatives to reduce the number of repeat teen pregnancies. Repeat teen pregnancies account for approximately 30% of teen pregnancies each year. APP increases the self-sufficiency of young mothers, and has a multi-generational impact by improving the long-term health and success of both mother and baby. Twenty-nine sites in 27 counties have implemented the APP program and only 1.6% of APP enrollees statewide had a repeat pregnancy. Due in part to APP, Anson County’s teen pregnancy rate fell by 32.9% in 2008.

Chatham County has reduced their teen pregnancy rate by 26.3% by leveraging both state and private funding available to host Plain Talk, a nationally recognized and replicated promising program. Used for the past four years by nonprofit Chatham County Together, Plain Talk is a neighborhood-based initiative that teaches adults how to communicate effectively and comfortably with youth about health and personal responsibility.

“Keeping these programs strong – and offering them in more communities – is crucial to maintaining a positive trend in our pregnancy rates,” said Phillips. “We must not let these programs get lost as state and local dollars get harder and harder to come by.”

Phillips also expressed excitement for the new opportunity presented by the passage of the Healthy Youth Act by the North Carolina General Assembly. The Healthy Youth Act removes restrictions on local school boards that limited the number of evidence-based sexuality education curricula schools could use. Starting in the 2010-2011 school year, local school boards will be able to choose from a broad range of evidence-based curricula that cover abstinence as well as comprehensive sexual health and relationship topics.

With the release of today’s statistics and the continued expansion of evidence-based approaches, North Carolina’s teen pregnancy prevention experts are confident the state will see continued declines in teen pregnancy rates.

For additional information:

Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Campaign of North Carolina: www.appcnc.org

NC DHHS Teen Pregnancy Prevention Initiatives: www.teenpregnancy.ncdhhs.gov

2008 Pregnancy Statistics: http://www.schs.state.nc.us/SCHS/ or www.appcnc.org

The Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Campaign of North Carolina (APPCNC) is a statewide nonprofit organization that works with North Carolina communities to reduce adolescent pregnancy through advocacy, collaboration and education.

More information is available at www.appcnc.org.

Dixon HS Spaghetti Benefit Dinner Friday Oct. 30th

Dixon High School

Spaghetti Benefit Dinner

Friday

Oct. 30th

4pm-7pm

ONLY $5.00

for

Spaghetti, Bread, Dessert and a drink

Tickets available anytime at DHS front office

or at the dinner

347-2958

Please feel free to stick around for the Bull Dogs football game too !!

Gooooooooooo Bull Dogs !!

Dixon Bulldogs Move Up To #3 In Coaches Poll

According to the Top 15 1-A Boy's soccer teams as ranked by the North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association as of Sunday, October 4, 2009, the Dixon Bulldogs are ranked #3 in the state. This is a move up from #4 last week in the same poll.

Dixon is scheduled with two upcoming games this week with:

1. Pamlico @ Dixon High School - Monday, October 5, 2009 6:00 pm
   
2. **CANCELLED ** Dixon @ Richlands High School - Thursday, October 8, 2009 6:00 pm
   

Come support your Dixon Bulldogs soccer team as they continue their winning tradition through the 2009 season!

Halloween Events in Onslow County

Pumpkin Painting Party

The Onslow County Parks & Recreation Department and Mike’s Tree Farm are sponsoring a Pumpkin Painting Party. The FREE party will be held on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at Blue Creek Elementary School beginning at 6:00 p.m. Everyone 12 years & under is invited; parents are also encouraged to attend. Free Pumpkins available while supplies last, you may wish to bring your own. Door Prizes and Goody Bags! Painting supplies will be provided. Please call 347-5332 or visit: www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

Spooktacular Fun

Onslow County Parks & Recreation Department and Onslow Pines Park Concession Stand Committee invite you to participate in the Spooktacular Fun at Onslow Pines Park, Friday and Saturday October 30 and 31 from 5:30 pm – 10:30 pm. Fun for all ages, a Haunted Trail Ride $5 Adults and $3 Kids, Frightfully Fun Games, Costume Contest Saturday 7pm open to all ages, a Pumpkin Junction for the youngsters with Moonwalks, Games and a Train Ride! Food, Candy and more! All proceeds benefit the Onslow Pines Park Concession Stand Fund. Call 347-5332 visit: www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

Halloween Costume Contest & Matinee Movie

Onslow County Parks & Recreation Dept. and Carmike Cinema 16 are sponsoring a Halloween Costume Contest & Matinee Movie. The event is being held Saturday, October 31, 2009 at Carmike Cinema 16, behind the Jacksonville Mall, starting at 9:00 a.m. The cost for this year’s event is three canned goods per person (which will be donated to Onslow County Christmas Cheer). Open to all children 12 years & under, parents are encouraged to attend. 1^st, 2^nd, & 3^rd place prizes will be awarded to contest winners in several age groups. Free Goody Bags! Call 347-5332 visit: www.onslowcountync.gov/parks

NC Soccer Coaches Association Ranks Dixon #4 in 1A

According to the Top 15 1-A Boy's soccer teams as ranked by the North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association as of Tuesday, September 29, 2009, the Dixon Bulldogs are ranked #4 in the state.

Dixon is scheduled with two upcoming home games this week with:

1. Lejeune @ Dixon High School - Wednesday, September 30, 2009
   6:00 pm (Varsity only)
   
2. Whiteville @ Dixon High School - Thursday, October 1, 2009
   5:00 pm (JV) and 7:00 pm (Varsity)
   

Come support your Dixon Bulldogs soccer team as they continue their run through the 2009 season!

Soccer: Dixon defeats Southwest 5-4 in overtime

The Dixon Bulldogs soccer team defeated Southwest Stallions 5-4 in a hard fought match that required a game winning goal by senior Kris Cotter with less than 5 minutes to go in the second overtime.

These two front-runners for the Coastal Plains 1-A Conference title battled throughout regulation and overtime with the decision hanging in the balance all the while. This will surely be on the minds of both as they play again at Dixon High School October 19, 2009.

For more on the game check out the Jacksonville Daily News story Cotter's overtime goal lifts Dixon past Southwest.

Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser at Andy's in Sneads Ferry

On Saturday, October 3, 2009, the Dixon High School Men's Soccer Team will be holding a pancake breakfast fundraiser at the Andy's Restaurant in Sneads Ferry. Ticket donation is $5 which will be used to purchase much needed warm-ups for the team.

This year's Bulldogs has members that were on the 1A State Championship team and are looking to repeat.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Dixon High School office and/or from any of the team members of both the Varsity and Junior Varsity squads. Last minute tickets may be available at the door as well but, you are asked to purchase in advance as their is a rather limited seating.

Dixon High School Men's Soccer Fundraiser:
Location: Andy's Burgers Shakes and Fries
993 NC Highway 210
Sneads Ferry, NC 28460-9132
Phone: (910) 327-1555
Web: http://www.andysburgers.net
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Date/Time: Saturday, October 3, 2009 @ 7:00 am - 9:30 am
Donation: $5 per ticket
Purpose: Raise funds to purchase much needed warm-ups for the soccer team