Former Roaring River Fire Chief Dies

Known locally on emergency radio as 2921, retired Roaring River Fire Chief Dale Pierce, died this week as a result of injuries from a fall on January 9th. Many local departments and the community are joining with Roaring River to mourn the loss of the former chief. On their Facebook page, Roaring River Fire posted that Chief Pierce will be truly missed by his family, the community, and all members of the Roaring River Volunteer Fire Department. His years of service, leadership, and dedication left a lasting impact on all knew him.

North Carolina Highway Patrolman Dies in Surry

The North Carolina Highway Patrol is mourning the loss this week of a current member. Master Trooper Jason R. Vindich of Troop E, District 5 in Surry County was at home and off duty when he died after having an accident. Medical personnel responded to his residence and worked diligently, but unfortunately, he died from his injuries. The accident was not related to the winter weather.

First minimally invasive heart procedure

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has completed its first minimally invasive heart procedure to replace the tricuspid valve using new catheter-based technology. This breakthrough, which is a first in the Triad.   While many people are familiar with the aortic and mitral valves, the tricuspid valve is often called the “forgotten valve.” When it fails, blood flows backward into the heart, causing debilitating symptoms. The new procedure replaces the tricuspid valve using a catheter guided through a vein rather than requiring open-heart surgery.

NC 211

The NCCARE360 Resource Navigators is currently paused, and there are no teams to connect individuals with community resources. So, individuals who need assistance are encouraged to contact NC 211, which is an information and referral service by United Way of North Carolina. Families and individuals can call 2-1-1 to receive free and confidential information on health and human services in their community. For more information, visit NC211.org.

In North Carolina, households spend

A new analysis from Trace One examines how much residents spend on groceries in each state and how food costs stack up against overall household spending. In North Carolina, households spend an average of $597 per month on groceries, accounting for 8.0% of total consumer spending and 42.2% of all food spending. Also, the average monthly dining-out spending for North Carolina residents is $816 which gives us a total monthly food spending of $1,413.

Data Privacy Day in North Carolina

Governor Josh Stein has proclaimed today, Jan. 28. as Data Privacy Day in North Carolina to remind all North Carolinians of the importance of protecting personal information. This day falls during Data Privacy Week, an annual international effort to highlight privacy, protect data, and enable trust. NCDIT will be sharing privacy tips and resources throughout the week on social media using the hashtag #DataPrivacyWeek. Learn more about why privacy matters and get additional privacy tips and resources on NCDIT’s website.

the theft of property

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office is investigating the theft of property from a Hays residence. The reporting person reported that the property owner is currently in jail and they were staying at the house. However, they discovered property missing from the residence including: various hand tools, two welders, and a speaker. Stolen property is estimated at $8700. One white female suspect was listed with that theft and charges are pending further investigation.

DSS are investigating financial fraud

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office and Wilkes DSS are investigating a financial fraud case involving an 11-year-old child. According to the report, it is believed the $9000 that was to be used for the child has been used for fraudulent means. The suspect is a 65-year-old white female. That investigation is still underway.

a voter challenge in Wilkes

A hearing on a voter challenge in Wilkes has been put on hold due to the weather. The Wilkes County Board of Elections will meet Tuesday, February 3rd at 4 pm in the Basement Conference Room of the Wilkes County Offices. The purpose of this meeting is to conduct a preliminary hearing for a voter challenge filed. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the Wilkes County Board of Elections. The original meeting was scheduled for today, but it is cancelled and rescheduled to February 3rd due to inclement weather.

ice removal from Town of North Wilkesboro

By Monday afternoon, crews continued to work on snow and ice removal from Town of North Wilkesboro streets and sidewalks. Many town streets were cleared yesterday. However, anything wet will re-freeze during the nighttime hours. You’re advised to continue to use caution if you must travel today. Also North Wilkesboro Fire Dept advises that extension cords are meant for temporary use only. Avoid running them under rugs or through doorways, and never plug a surge protector or another extension cord into them. A few simple precautions can prevent fires and keep your home safe all winter long.