Commissioners Discuss Plans For 4-H Rural Life Center
Staff Aiming For 2009 Grand Opening

Currituck's Board of Commissioners fielded a presentation by Cooperative Extension staff members regarding plans for the new 4-H Rural Life Center during a work session on August 17, 2009. The proposed facility, which is located on county-owned property off Spot Road, is expected to open this fall in time for the 100th anniversary celebration of 4-H, Extension Director Rodney Sawyer reported.

The conceptual plan for the Rural Life Center includes many features geared towards outdoor activities, equestrian events, day camps, and educating visitors in Currituck's rural heritage. Site plans include refurbishing an existing indoor arena and constructing outdoor equestrian rings, spectator seating, blacksmith's shop, and equestrian and walking trails.

The property includes a stocked fishing pond and a canal that provides access to the Currituck Sound. Canoe and kayak trails have been proposed, along with a historical farmstead exhibit. This would replicate a 1930s era farm and include a barn, other outbuildings, and artifacts to portray Currituck's rural heritage. Another proposed historical exhibit would center on a fireplace from a pre-Civil War home that was previously located on the property.

Repair work and cleanup has already begun at the site, and commissioners will be working with county staff and the Cooperative Extension to finalize plans for the 4-H Rural Life Center. For more information on this project, contact the Cooperative Extension Service at 232-2261.

All-Star Baseball Team Recognized With Proclamation
Packed Courthouse Applauds Teens' Success

A large crowd joined the Board of Commissioners in the Historic Courthouse on August 17, 2009 to recognize the recent achievements of Currituck's 13 & Under Babe Ruth All Star baseball team.

The Board adopted a proclamation to honor the team, and each player and coach was given a large plaque to commemorate the occasion. A copy of the proclamation is available on CurrituckGovernment.com here.

BOC Honors Sawyer For Successful Career
Extension Director Set To Retire Next Month

Cooperative Extension Director Rodney Sawyer was officially honored by the Board of Commissioners on August 17, 2009.

Board of Commissioners Chairman Owen Etheridge presented Sawyer with a plaque in honor of a long and successful career. Sawyer retires on Sept. 30, ending a 30-year career with the Cooperative Extension Service in Currituck County.

Video Of Water Plant Ceremony Now Available Online
Sen. Burr, Rep. Owens Join County In Celebration

County staff has prepared a video presentation of the August 12, 2009 Grand Opening of the new mainland Water Plant. The event featured United States Senator Richard Burr and remarks from Board of Commissioners Chairman Owen Etheridge. North Carolina State Representative Bill Owens was also on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Click here to access the event video.

Season's First Hurricane Provides Reminder To Prepare
Beachgoers Should Be Aware Of Dangerous Ocean Conditions

The looming presence of the season's first hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean provides a reminder to all citizens of the need to prepare for severe weather. Though Hurricane Bill is not expected to make landfall on the Eastern United States, the storm exemplifies the potential for a large storm to affect Currituck County.

On August 19, Bill was categorized as a Category 4 hurricane, with winds of 135 mph. Bill's projected path keeps the storm out at sea, but county residents and visitors are advised to practice safety in regards to water activities. The National Weather Service predicted swells and waves up to 10 feet along many portions of the East Coast, along with dangerous rip currents. The National Weather Service advises all swimmers and small craft to avoid the ocean from Friday evening to Sunday evening.

Now is a good time for all residents to make sure that family emergency safety kits are stocked and up-to-date, and that evacuation plans are in place. For any questions regarding emergency preparedness, contact Currituck Emergency Management at 232-2115, or visit ReadyNC.com.

Citizens can also track Hurricane Bill's progress and find other storm-related information on the National Hurricane Center's website.

Find more Currituck News & Info at CurrituckGovernment.com