Campground opening postponed as citizens demand action
News March 26, 2020
HAYESVILLE, NC – Clay County citizens took to social media in the days following the county’s State of Emergency declaration on March 24, voicing concern that the Clay County Board of Commissioners’ approach to the COVID-19 pandemic may be passive in response. FYN began looking into Clay County’s plans following citizen confusion as to whether the county campground would continue to welcome visitors in the midst of the national crisis.
“The Clay County Board of Commissioners has been continually monitoring developments on a national, state and local level and making rational decisions based on factual information,” Clay County Chairman Rob Peck said on Wednesday evening. “It has come to our attention that many have taken to social media to voice their displeasure as to our campground. What they don’t know is that our Commissioners have been in discussions as to how to proceed for the last two weeks. Each Commissioner was asked to provide their opinions to the Chairman by tonight so a decision could be announced tomorrow. This would allow two days for staff to contact those who have booked reservations as well as those who are seasonal renters. We have a great team who has been working tirelessly to prepare the campground for the season and provide an exceptional experience for our residents and visitors alike. We appreciate their effort! That said, the board has decided to take a reasonable and measured action of delaying the opening of our camping season until Saturday, April 18th. This applies to Gibson Cove and the Recreation Park adjacent to it. We will re-evaluate if necessary at the appropriate time. An emergency declaration is not needed to adjust dates and hours of operation.”
Peck stated that there are no plans for a “shelter in place” order for Clay County unless the State of North Carolina issues such. “Please understand that these shelter in place orders affect very little additional businesses (due to exemptions) then those already shut due to executive order,” Peck said.
North Carolina citizens can dial 211 or text COVIDNC to 898211 to sign up for updates on the COVID-19 pandemic.
Citizen information from Clay County residents can be submitted to FYN by emailing [email protected]
UPDATE: Cooper orders North Carolinians to stay home
News, State & National March 27, 2020
RALEIGH, N.C. – On Friday, March 27, Gov. Roy Cooper signed Executive order 121 instructing North Carolinians to remain in their homes except for essential activities and work. The order takes effect on Monday, March 30 at 5 p.m. and ends on April 29, but can be extended or lifted early.
This is to slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep local hospitals from being overwhelmed with infected patients.
Essential businesses include grocery stores, restaurants – take out and drive-thru only, ABC stores, healthcare providers, pharmacies, hardware stores, post offices, office supply stores, gas stations, convenience stores, veterinarians, pet supply stores, hotels, airlines, public transit, places of worship, child care providers that follow NCDHHS guidelines.
Individuals should stay in their residence except for essential activities, such as grocery shopping, medication, medical appointments, exercise – not in groups larger than 10, essential jobs, etc. At this time, Cooper is seeking voluntary cooperation from the public but can instate law enforcement protocols if necessary.
Social interaction should be limited. People can visit family members to help take care of their medical needs.
People can still go to parks if they remain open.
Businesses that aren’t listed as essential, but owners believe it is to the community, can apply for an exemption with the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
Click here to read FAQs about the order.
Update from March 23 below:
Almost a week after Gov. Roy Cooper ordered restaurants to close all in-dining services, he has issued another order instructing all salons and gyms to close. The Monday, March 23rd conference also told the public that public K-12 schools will remain closed until May 15.
Schools will continue to offer remote instruction until the May date when the situation will be reevaluated.
A list of businesses closing on Wednesday, March 25 at 5 p.m. include gyms, salons, nail salons, barbershops, health clubs, movie theaters, and sweepstakes parlors. Casinos in the state closed last week.
Grocery stores remain open as do restaurants with curbside, takeout, delivery, or drive-thru options. Cooper urged North Carolinians to only buy what they need at the store and leave goods for others who might need it.
New updates and directives are as follows per Executive Order:
Mass Gatherings = 50+ Persons
The new Executive Order modifies Executive Order 117 to limit mass gatherings to no more than 50 people [was 100 people]. Section 1. a.1. of Executive Order 120 provides that a mass gathering is defined as any “event or convening that brings together more than fifty (50) persons in a single room or single space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, or any other confined indoor or outdoor space . . . [and includes] parades, fairs and festivals.” Not included in the definition of mass gatherings are normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, shopping malls and shopping centers. It also does not include office environments, factories, grocery stores and child care facilities.
If a church gathering has a coordinated event or convening for more than 50, such gathering would be prohibited under Section 1(a). If a church has more than 50 employees and they come to work, that would fall within the exemption of Section 1(b) because it functions as an office environment.
If a wedding ceremony or reception has more than 50 attendees, that activity would be prohibited under Section 1(a).
A funeral home can continue to conduct retail business in assisting clients with funeral arrangements. However, a funeral that has more than 50 attendees would be prohibited under Section 1(a).
The Executive Order provides that the above restriction on mass gatherings is a Class 2 misdemeanor and shall be enforced by State and local law enforcement officers.
Entertainment Facilities
Section 1.b. of Executive Order 120 requires the closure of entertainment facilities without a retail or dining component. Entertainment facilities that must close include bowling alleys, health clubs, indoor/outdoor pools, skating rinks, indoor exercise facilities, movie theaters, spas, bingo parlors, and gaming establishments.
Gaming establishments that must close include any “gaming and business establishments which allow gaming activities (e.g. video poker, gaming, sweepstakes, video games, arcade games, pinball machines or other computer, electronic or mechanical devices played for amusement.)” A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
If any of these entertainment facilities have a retail or dining component, those may continue to operate within current emergency restrictions. For example, if a spa has a deli or sandwich shop, they can continue to provide take-out food service to customers. In addition, if a health club has a gift shop, they can continue to sell T-shirts and other items from that retail gift shop.
Personal Care and Grooming Businesses
Section 1.c. also requires the closure of personal care and grooming businesses. This includes barber shops, beauty salons, hair salons, nail salons, massage parlors, and tattoo parlors. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Long Term Care Visitation Limitations
Executive Order 120 places restrictions on patient visitation in long term care facilities. For a more detailed description of this provision, please view the Executive Order.
Continued School Closure
All public schools are closed through Friday, May 15, 2020.
Original article from March 12 below:
In a March 12, 2020 press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper asked North Carolinians to stay away from gatherings of 100 people or more as Coronavirus cases continue to grow throughout the state.
The voluntary measures apply to conferences, assemblies, sporting events, concerts, and worship services. Cooper also stated these protocols could become mandatory if no one followed through with his suggestions.
Employers are also encouraged to allow employees to work from home.
Cooper willing to put mandatory measures in place if the public doesn’t follow through.
The measures go into effect on Friday, March 13.
“Although North Carolina has not seen as much widespread infection as some other states, I want to provide stronger statewide guidance now,” explained Cooper. “Health experts believe that it will protect the health and safety of North Carolinians and help prevent further spread of the virus. I strongly urge all North Carolinians to follow it and take it seriously.”
Don’t close schools just yet
One call to action differing from much of the rest of the county, state government isn’t calling for preemptive school closings. Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen expanded upon the reasoning during the press conference.
She listed multiple reasons, including children tend to gather other places when not in school, one of which is grandparent’s homes – who are labeled as high risk for catching the virus. Also, many children depend on free or reduced breakfast and lunch as their only meals throughout the school year.
“Those are all significant things that contribute to children’s health, and we want to make sure we’re thinking about that,” Cohen stated.
However, childcare and schools are recommended to cancel or reduce large extracurricular activities or events.
Cohen explained why schools should stay open for now.
Several universities in the state have moved to online classes, but students can remain on campus for now.
Cooper declared a state of emergency in North Carolina last week. As of Thursday, the state had 16 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The new cases were reported in Wake, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Forsyth and Johnston counties.
Images courtesy of N.C. government.
UPDATE: COVID-19 line established by health departments and Erlanger
Community, News March 11, 2020
CLAY COUNTY, N.C. – Cherokee County Health Department in conjunction with Clay County Health Department, Graham Country Health Department and Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital has opened a COVID-19 Community Information line.
Beginning Thursday, community members can call 828-835-4258 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to speak with a representative. There is no cost and no insurance needed. This public service provides convenient access to local health care providers who will answer their questions. This is NOT a COVID-19 test screening line.
“Cherokee County Government and our community partners have a responsibility to protect the public health and assist the community in managing emergency events,” said David Badger, Health Director, Cherokee County Health Department. “We can best meet this objective by continuing to work together to help lessen the potential spread of COVID-19 by following the previously listed guidance.”
Original article from March 11 below:
The Clay County Health Department (CCHD) has created a phone number for the community to call and stay updated on the COVID-19.
The line will be updated every day “or so” according to the CCHD with any status changes within the community. The number to call is (828) 389-8052 ext. 110.
In a statement released on Facebook, CCHD stated:
“The Clay County Health Department would like for our community to know that we are persistently keeping up to date on evolving information about COVID-19. We have established a local line that we will be updating every day or so with any status changes. The line can be reached at (828) 389-8052 ext. 110. We also recommend reliable sites such as the CDC and NCDHHS for up to date and accurate information.”
COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Symptoms appear within two to 14 days after exposure. The average incubation period is five days.
CORVID-19
80 percent of patients with a confirmed case of COVID-19 have mild symptoms. In severe cases, patients have developed pneumonia in both lungs, and in others, patients have died. The current death toll in the United States is 29 out of a total of 938 cases. Also, 38 states and the District of Columbia have reported coronavirus cases.
According to the CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health, the best way to prevent the virus is to wash your hands, regularly and for 20 seconds. If you can’t use soap, then use a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. To make sure that you’re washing your hands long enough, sing “Happy Birthday” twice.
Also, you should avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth, or nose; cover your sneeze or cough with a tissue and then throw it away, stay home if you’re sick; and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Finally, get a flu shot. It wouldn’t prevent COVID-19, but it will lessen flu symptoms which will make the jobs of health facilities easier.
N.C. residents can dial 2-1-1 to gain COVID-19 information
Community, Lifestyle, Press Release March 23, 2020RALEIGH, N.C. – The State of North Carolina has a dedicated referral and information service (2-1-1) for residents to use to find out more information about COVID-19.
nc211.org is an information and referral service that families and individuals can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services resources within their community. NC 2-1-1 operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and resources are available in most languages.
“Services like NC 2-1-1 are critical during times of emergency,” said Governor Cooper. “North Carolinians can now call 2-1-1 to get the information they need while we continue working together to prevent the spread of this virus.”
North Carolinians can text COVIDNC to 898211 to receive general information and updates about COVID-19. Sign up now to get regular alerts on the rapidly evolving situation and North Carolina’s response.
NC 2-1-1 can refer callers to the organizations in their local community best equipped to address their specific health and human services needs including food, shelter, energy assistance, housing, parenting resources, health care, employment, substance abuse treatment, as well as specific resources for older adults and for persons with disabilities, and much more. Simply dial 2-1-1 or TTY 888-892-1162 for assistance.
NC 2-1-1 cannot provide direct medical services, and COVID-19 can only be diagnosed by a health care professional. If you suspect you or someone you care for may have symptoms or have been exposed to the virus, you should contact your health care provider. If you do not have a provider, you can call your local health department, free and charitable clinics or a Federally Qualified Health Clinic for guidance.
People should only call 9-1-1 if they are experiencing an emergency. 9-1-1 centers across North Carolina have been receiving general questions and other non-emergency calls related to COVID-19. Please do not call 9-1-1 unless you have an emergency.
For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in North Carolina, go to ncdhhs.gov/coronavirus.
Due to anticipated high call volume, those seeking general information about COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to sign up for texts. People who are trying to locate specific services would benefit by calling. To learn more about NC 2-1-1, visit NC 2-1-1.
UPDATE: Cooper closes more businesses, extends school closings
News, State & National March 23, 2020
RALEIGH, N.C. – Almost a week after Gov. Roy Cooper ordered restaurants to close all in-dining services, he has issued another order instructing all salons and gyms to close. The Monday, March 23rd conference also told the public that public K-12 schools will remain closed until May 15.
Schools will continue to offer remote instruction until the May date when the situation will be reevaluated.
A list of businesses closing on Wednesday, March 25 at 5 p.m. include gyms, salons, nail salons, barbershops, health clubs, movie theaters, and sweepstakes parlors. Casinos in the state closed last week.
Grocery stores remain open as do restaurants with curbside, takeout, delivery, or drive-thru options. Cooper urged North Carolinians to only buy what they need at the store and leave goods for others who might need it.
Original article from March 12 below:
In a March 12, 2020 press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper asked North Carolinians to stay away from gatherings of 100 people or more as Coronavirus cases continue to grow throughout the state.
The voluntary measures apply to conferences, assemblies, sporting events, concerts, and worship services. Cooper also stated these protocols could become mandatory if no one followed through with his suggestions.
Employers are also encouraged to allow employees to work from home.
Cooper willing to put mandatory measures in place if the public doesn’t follow through.
The measures go into effect on Friday, March 13.
“Although North Carolina has not seen as much widespread infection as some other states, I want to provide stronger statewide guidance now,” explained Cooper. “Health experts believe that it will protect the health and safety of North Carolinians and help prevent further spread of the virus. I strongly urge all North Carolinians to follow it and take it seriously.”
Don’t close schools just yet
One call to action differing from much of the rest of the county, state government isn’t calling for preemptive school closings. Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen expanded upon the reasoning during the press conference.
She listed multiple reasons, including children tend to gather other places when not in school, one of which is grandparent’s homes – who are labeled as high risk for catching the virus. Also, many children depend on free or reduced breakfast and lunch as their only meals throughout the school year.
“Those are all significant things that contribute to children’s health, and we want to make sure we’re thinking about that,” Cohen stated.
However, childcare and schools are recommended to cancel or reduce large extracurricular activities or events.
Cohen explained why schools should stay open for now.
Several universities in the state have moved to online classes, but students can remain on campus for now.
Cooper declared a state of emergency in North Carolina last week. As of Thursday, the state had 16 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The new cases were reported in Wake, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Forsyth and Johnston counties.
Images courtesy of N.C. government.
Trump COVID-19 Guidelines limit gatherings to 10
Featured Stories, State & National March 16, 2020
WASHINGTON, DC – President Donald Trump and the White House COVID-19 task force issued new guidelines for the next 15 days, including limiting gatherings to 10 people and avoiding dining in public spaces.
The 3 p.m. press conference focused on how telling Americans how they can help “flatten the curve” of the virus, so the nation can “turn the corner.”
In the guidelines issued today, Americans are highly advised to:
- Limit gatherings to 10 people or less, including in-home gatherings
- Avoid eating or drinking in restaurants, bars, or public food courts, use drive-thrus, pick-up, and delivery services
- Avoid discretionary travel – shopping trips and social visits
- Do not visit nursing homes, long-term health care, or retirement facilities
- Wash your hands
- Don’t touch your face
- Sneeze or cough into a tissue or inside of your elbow
- Disinfect used items and surfaces frequently
However, Trump cautioned that everyone may feel the effects of COVID-19 into July and August. Also, the President didn’t want to focus on the possibility of a recession at this time. He believes the markets will rebound once the virus abates.
“I think you’re going to see a tremendous, tremendous surge,” Trump said about the markets.
copy of new guidelines from the White House and CDC.
While the White House isn’t instituting a nationwide quarantine presently, Trump did make it clear that “hot spots” could potentially be placed under quarantine. Currently, the New Rochelle is considered a “containment zone” not a quarantined city.
Dr. Deborah Birx, White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator, added that anyone who is sick should stay home. Also, if anyone in a home is diagnosed with COVID-19, the entire house should quarantine in the home to prevent spread.
“We really want people to be separated at this time,” Birx stated. She also addressed millennials directly because changes in their behaviors could significantly affect the course of the virus. Millennials are connected to each other and can spread information across platforms.
copy of guidelines from the White House and CDC.
Ask the Doc! All things Covid-19
Health March 20, 2020
#BKP and Dr. William Whaley are joined by Dr. Raymond Tidman to discuss all things Covid-19.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUuEayr0hKQ
Clay County Schools hold emergency COVID-19 meeting
Business March 16, 2020HAYESVILLE, NC= Clay County Board of Education held an emergency-called, live-streamed meeting, March 16, to discuss the details of its mandatory school closure due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Off-site instruction for Clay County Schools begins on Monday, March 23, for all students.
North Carolinians urged to avoid large gatherings
News, State & National March 13, 2020RALEIGH, N.C. – In a March 12, 2020 press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper asked North Carolinians to stay away from gatherings of 100 people or more as Coronavirus cases continue to grow throughout the state.
The voluntary measures apply to conferences, assemblies, sporting events, concerts, and worship services. Cooper also stated these protocols could become mandatory if no one followed through with his suggestions.
Employers are also encouraged to allow employees to work from home.
Cooper willing to put mandatory measures in place if the public doesn’t follow through.
The measures go into effect on Friday, March 13.
“Although North Carolina has not seen as much widespread infection as some other states, I want to provide stronger statewide guidance now,” explained Cooper. “Health experts believe that it will protect the health and safety of North Carolinians and help prevent further spread of the virus. I strongly urge all North Carolinians to follow it and take it seriously.”
Don’t close schools just yet
One call to action differing from much of the rest of the county, state government isn’t calling for preemptive school closings. Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen expanded upon the reasoning during the press conference.
She listed multiple reasons, including children tend to gather other places when not in school, one of which is grandparent’s homes – who are labeled as high risk for catching the virus. Also, many children depend on free or reduced breakfast and lunch as their only meals throughout the school year.
“Those are all significant things that contribute to children’s health, and we want to make sure we’re thinking about that,” Cohen stated.
However, childcare and schools are recommended to cancel or reduce large extracurricular activities or events.
Cohen explained why schools should stay open for now.
Several universities in the state have moved to online classes, but students can remain on campus for now.
Cooper declared a state of emergency in North Carolina last week. As of Thursday, the state had 16 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The new cases were reported in Wake, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Forsyth and Johnston counties.
Images courtesy of N.C. government.
Clay County Schools operating on regular schedule for now
Clay County Schools, Community March 13, 2020CLAY COUNTY, N.C. – Clay County Schools Superintendent Dale Cole took a moment to address the public about their efforts to combat COVID-19 and why the school is still open.
Superintendent Dale Cole in the middle. Photo courtesy of Clay County Schools Facebook.
Read his entire statement below:
This is Dale Cole, Superintendent of Clay County Schools with an important message. CCS has continually monitored updates and directives from state government and the Clay County Health Department over the last week specific to the Corona Virus. At this time we are still on a regular school schedule. There have been no reported cases of Covid-19 in Clay or any surrounding counties.
Following the recommendation of Governor Cooper, all field trips have been cancelled for the remainder of the school year. Student and employee safety is the primary concern for Clay County Schools. CCS staff will try to recoup as much money as possible from the events and tour companies or work out alternative arrangements for possible travel next year.This will take time, but we assure parents and students that we will seek all opportunities to refund monies to the best of our ability.
The NCHSAA has cancelled all sports and practices for high schools and middle schools indefinitely. CCS has also cancelled all out of district travel for staff. We are currently reviewing all after school events that would involve gatherings of more than 100 people to try to reschedule as needed.
Clay County Schools continues to follow the guidance of local, state, and federal health officials regarding all communicable diseases. Medical experts have indicated that the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are the same recommendations for preventing the spread of the flu.
All hard surfaces will be appropriately cleaned with EPA-registered disinfectants. Additional refresher training was provided to our custodial team. The district is encouraging students and staff to follow basic prevention guidelines. Here are some helpful tips that with everyone’s help will aid in prevention:
1. Avoid close contact with others if you or they are sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick.
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
4. Clean your hands often with soap and water.
5. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill.We will continue to monitor the situation and adjust protocols and processes as warranted. Thank you, and have a great weekend.