Cars Broken Into At Avante
Wilkesboro Police say they have no leads or suspects, after two cars were broken into outside Avante early Friday.

Delores Isenhour, who commutes to work at the nursing home from Laurel Springs, told police she came to work about 5:30 Thursday night, and discovered the passenger front window of her Dodge Durango broken out about 3 a-m Friday. The only item she discovered to be missing from the S-U-V was a bible, which police have valued at 25-dollars.

Miller’s Creek resident Amy Peak told officers someone also broke out the front passenger window on her 2005 Toyota Camry in the Avanta parking lot sometime between 10:30 Thursday night and 3 Friday morning. The only item missing from her car was a small bag with an inhaler in it.

Girls’ School Shop(Lifting) Trip Foiled
Two teenage girls’ school shopping trip ended with a ride to jail, after authorities say they did not pay for nearly 600 dollars’ worth of clothes and perfume. Police responding to the shoplifting report recovered a total of eleven t-shirts, four belts, several pairs of socks, a purse, a bottle of cologne and one pair each of jeans and shorts. 18-year old Kayla Bartowiak and a 16-year old female relative were stopped Wednesday afternoon by a Kohls security officer. Both have been charged with misdemeanor larceny, and Kayla Bartowiak was also charged with driving without a license. A bond of 1-thousand dollars was set for each.

Wilkes Regional Hospital Plans
Millions of dollars are on the table as North Wilkesboro town board members consider which of three proposals to accept concerning the management of Wilkes Regional Medical Center. Four public forum meetings this week will present the details of the proposals and give the community a chance to tell board members their thoughts. All four will be held in the school board room at the new Wilkes County Schools Central office on Cherry Street. The first is tomorrow night at 6. Tomo rrow, Wednesday and Thursday’s meetings are listening sessions only, and no public comment will be taken at any of them. However, Friday’s meeting is just for public comments and questions. Written questions are being accepted at North Wilkesboro Town Hall, or on the town’s website at www.north-wilkesboro.com. Listen to 3WC News throughout the week for details of each of the plans being considered.

Regional News

Care Home Deaths
State records show more than 50 people have died in North Carolina adult-care homes in the past five years because of preventable mistakes. Residents of these assisted-living facilities, rest homes and family-care homes have choked to death, frozen, been scalded and wandered into traffic, according to reports on file with the state Division of Facility Services. One suffered a fatal stabbing by a fellow resident. Another received the blood thinner Coumadin for five days instead of Claritin, an allergy medicine. Jeff Horton, the division's chief operating officer, says in each case, the deaths arose out of "something the facility did or failed to do." The death rate after these preventable incidents is more than six times that of state residents over age 65 who die from health-care complications in a hospital.

AmeriCorps Grant
An AmeriCorps grant of over 245-thousand dollars will help fourteen environmental programs in western North Carolina. The grant, announced Friday by Governor Mike Easley, will go to programs that are under the umbrella of the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy’s Project Conserve. Project Conserve members will perform more than 33-thousand hours of work over the next 11 months as a result of the grant. Area programs taking part in the grant include Appalachian Voices and High Country Conservancy, both in Boone; and the National Committee for the New River in West Jefferson.

Accident Claims Life
A two car accident on the Bethany Ford Road claimed one life late yesterday afternoon. Three people were also airlifted to Baptist Hospital in Winston- Salem. The accident happened on Bethany Ford Road about 5:30 Thursday. According to a report filed with the North Carolina Highway Patrol, Jody Lee Ellis Helton, age 33, of State Road was driving an ’88 Ford Pickup and traveling west on Bethany Ford Road when he crossed over the centerline and struck head-on a ’96 Chevrolet driven by Feliz Lynn Bauguess, age 45, of Traphill. Helton was killed in the accident. Bauguess and the 2 passengers with Helton were taken to Wilkes Regional Medical Center and later transported to Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center.

NC Gov Reappoints Whittington to WCC
Gov. Mike Easley has reappointed N. Susan Whittington of North Wilkesboro to the Wilkes Community college Board of Trustees. Whittington is a financial advisor at New York Life Insurance and board chairperson at the Rainbow Center for Children and Families, and a committee member of the UNC at Greensboro University Investment Fund. The WCC Board of Trustees has 16 members serving 4-year terms. Board members are appointed by the Governor, by County Commissioners, and by the Board of Education.

Stormy Weather
As a cold front approaches the area the National Weather Service says that we could have some heavy thunderstorms this evening. Winds in excess of 60 miles per hour and penny size hail will be possible during the storms. Heavy rain and localized flooding is also possible with rainfall possibly approaching two inches per hour in some locations. Stay tuned to 3WC for the latest information.

Stolen Car
Sheriff’s Officials do have a suspect in a stolen car case. The 1996 Hyundai was reported stolen earlier this week by a woman in Traphill. She stated the car was parked in her driveway at the time of the theft. She had also left the car keys and her pocketbook inside the vehicle. Again, there is a suspect and charges are pending.

Foxx of NC Comments on Terror Plot
Yesterday, United States Rep. Virginia Foxx of NC applauded American, British and Pakistani security officials for their role in uncovering and disrupting a terror plot of epic proportions. “I stand alongside the rest of the country in extending my heartfelt thanks to those security officials who foiled this attempt at murder on a grand scale. This goes to show that behind-the-scenes intelligence work is effective in keeping our nation safe,” Foxx stated. While today’s plot was thwarted, Foxx urges increased vigilance on the part of Homeland Security employees and average citizens alike. According to Foxx, “This is a real wake-up call to those who think the War on Terror is over…”

Pet Adoption Fair
The Humane Society of Wilkes and the Wilkes County Animal Shelter will hold a Pet Adoption Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10:30 AM until 3:00 PM at the Animal Shelter on Call St. in Wilkesboro. Please consider adopting a homeless dog, cat, kitten, or puppy. The adoption fee, which ranges from $55 - $90 depending on animal size and type, covers a vet exam, vaccines, and spay or neuter. Visit www.humanesocietyofwilkes.org to see some of the many pets in desperate need of good homes.

Regional News
The Ashe County community of Creston could soon be home to as many as 28 windmills that generate electricity that would be sold to area power companies. Northwest Wind Energies has filed an application with the N.C. Utilities Commission to build the windmills at a cost of up to $65 million dollars. If approved, the windmills would be generating power by the Fall of 2008 and would generate enough power for 12,000 homes.
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Twenty seven people have been indicted on Federal drug charges in two separate drug busts. Most of the people charged live in the Alexander, Catawba, Caldwell, Burke and Lincoln county area. Among those indicted was the principal at the Alexander County Alternative Learning Program School. 44 year old Craig Daniel Leviner, of Taylorsville, is in federal custody for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute me Among those indicted in the second group was the principal at the Alexander County Alternative Learning Program School. Craig Daniel Leviner, 44, of Taylorsville, is in federal custody for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. If convicted, the individuals charged could receive 10 years to life imprisonment and pay a $1 million fine.

Successful Blood Drive Honoring Soldiers
Tuesday, the Wilkes-Alleghany Chapter of the American Red Cross held a blood drive at the VFW in honor of our soldiers. It was an all day event, and according to Melanie Shepherd with the Red Cross, the blood drive was a success. But Melanie says Blood Supply levels are still low. There is another Blood Drive at Bethel Baptist Church today from 3 til 7:30

Corrected Toy Recall
To correct an earlier toy recall announcement--Two toy animals that were distributed in 36 states including North Carolina as part of a national summer-reading program are being recalled. If your child received a four-inch tall plastic dog or cat with bendable limbs from a public library, then you should return those to the library for disposal. The toys have been found to contain unsafe levels of lead. Lead exposure in children under six years of age can cause learning disabilities, behavioral problems, kidney damage and in rare cases, death. Wilkes County Library ordered but did not distribute the toys. Instead they were distributed through the Watauga library in Sugar Grove.

Through the Window
Two home break-ins in which thieves entered through a window are being investigated by the Sheriff’s Department. At a Parks Ridge Road residence, the thief pulled out a window air conditioning unit to gain entrance to the home. Four guns and jewelry were the only property stolen. At a White Plains Road residence, someone entered an open window and stole a stereo system. There is no word on suspects.

Stolen Tractor
In Millers Creek a tractor was reported missing yesterday afternoon. According to the property owner, the cab of the Kubota tractor was locked and the key was inside their locked residence. It appears the thief pried open the tractor cab door and hot-wired the tractor. The tractor with attached bucket loader was valued at nearly $40,000.

Warning for Hay Farmers
As a warning to hay farmers, beware of strangers writing checks. In a report filed with the Sheriff’s Department on Tuesday, a North Wilkesboro man was contacted by phone by a woman wishing to purchase 120 bales of alfalfa. The woman arrived the following day, loaded the 120 bales of hay, wrote a check for the purchase, and left. The man then received word from his bank that the check was a fake and no such account existed. Officials have a description of the woman and the vehicle she was driving, but no arrests have been made at this time.

A New Way To Travel
The Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation has announced an easier way to travel from the Piedmont to Boone. There will be two round trips per day, seven days per week. The bus will leave from Greensboro and make stops in Winston Salem, Yadkinville, and here in Wilkesboro. The fee to travel from Wilkesboro to Boone will only be $3.00. The service could benefit more than 1,800 students from Guilford, Forsyth, Yadkin and Wilkes counties who attend Appalachian State University.

Pet Adoption Fair
The Humane Society of Wilkes and the Wilkes County Animal Shelter will hold a Pet Adoption Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10:30 AM until 3:00 PM at the Animal Shelter on Call St. in Wilkesboro. Please consider adopting a homeless dog, cat, kitten, or puppy. The adoption fee, which ranges from $55 - $90 depending on animal size and type, covers a vet exam, vaccines, and spay or neuter. Visit www.humanesocietyofwilkes.org to see some of the many pets in desperate need of good homes.

SG NEWS
The Perrys have announced the departure of lead singer, Loren Harris, from the group. Loren has been the lead singer for the Perrys for the past six years, and has been featured on some of their most popular songs, including I Wish I Could've Been There and Calvary Answers For Me. Shane Dunlap, formerly with N' Harmony and an original member of Signature Sound, will be filling the lead position until a permanent replacement is found.

Regional News
Eric Williams the former city manager of Henderson has accepted the position of interim county manager in Yadkin County. Williams will be paid $79,350 a year.
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Guilford County will be getting an additional 214 jobs soon. High Performance Coatings expects to invest $3.5 million during the next three years and build a 55,000-square-foot facility. The company uses nanotechnology to make surface treatment materials for the aerospace, medical, automotive and diesel truck industries.

Break-in & Thefts
Break-ins continue across the county; however, the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department is making progress with a couple of arrests and stolen property recovered. Monday several items stolen from a Bethel Road residence were found in a storage building. Following the discovery of the stolen property, two people from Jonesville were arrested. Troy Lee Moser and Wendy Dawn Lundy were both arrested and charged with felony larceny.

Thefts
Thefts still under investigation include a break-in and theft from Bare Construction on Monday. According to the report, someone cut a lock from a building on the property and stole several tools and equipment totaling $2,100.00. There is a suspect and charges are pending. Also, another construction site was hit by thieves on Monday. A Wilkesboro man reported that several items including the kitchen sink were taken from a home still under construction on Cedar Ridge Drive.

Vehicle Break-ins
Automobiles have also been the target of thieves in the past week. A Wilkesboro man stated that his car was broken into while he was at work at Lowe’s Hardware. Someone pried open the window and stole a CD player and CD’s. There are no suspects. A Millers Creek resident reported that someone entered her unlocked vehicle parked at her residence and took a Ruger handgun. Finally, a woman employed by Mazella Knitting called Sheriff’s Officials to report money stolen from her car. The woman had put her pocketbook in the trunk of her car. However, a thief was able to enter the trunk and then took only the cash from her pocketbook. There have been similar incidents with other employees but are no suspects at this time.

Toy Recall
Two toy animals that were distributed in 36 states including North Carolina as part of a national summer-reading program are being recalled. If your child received a four-inch tall plastic dog or cat with bendable limbs from the Wilkes County Public Library you should return those to the library for disposal. The toys have been found to contain unsafe levels of lead. Lead exposure in children under six years of age can cause learning disabilities, behavioral problems, kidney damage and in rare cases, death.

A New Way To Travel
The Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation has announced an easier way to travel from the Piedmont to Boone. There will be two round trips per day, seven days per week. The bus will leave from Greensboro and make stops in Winston Salem, Yadkinville, and here in Wilkesboro. The fee to travel from Wilkesboro to Boone will only be $3.00. The service could benefit more than 1,800 students from Guilford, Forsyth, Yadkin and Wilkes counties who attend Appalachian State University.

Pet Adoption Fair
The Humane Society of Wilkes and the Wilkes County Animal Shelter will hold a Pet Adoption Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10:30 AM until 3:00 PM at the Animal Shelter on Call St. in Wilkesboro. Please consider adopting a homeless dog, cat, kitten, or puppy. The adoption fee, which ranges from $55 - $90 depending on animal size and type, covers a vet exam, vaccines, and spay or neuter. Visit www.humanesocietyofwilkes.org to see some of the many pets in desperate need of good homes.

SG NEWS
The Perrys have announced the departure of lead singer, Loren Harris, from the group. Loren has been the lead singer for the Perrys for the past six years, and has been featured on some of their most popular songs, including I Wish I Could've Been There and Calvary Answers For Me. Shane Dunlap, formerly with N' Harmony and an original member of Signature Sound, will be filling the lead position until a permanent replacement is found.

Regional News
Eric Williams the former city manager of Henderson has accepted the position of interim county manager in Yadkin County. Williams will be paid $79,350 a year.

Guilford County will be getting an additional 214 jobs soon. High Performance Coatings expects to invest $3.5 million during the next three years and build a 55,000-square-foot facility. The company uses nanotechnology to make surface treatment materials for the aerospace, medical, automotive and diesel truck industries.

First of Day School – Grade A
Yesterday was the first day of school for students in Wilkes County. Although there were some first day traffic tie-ups, Assistant Superintendent Wanda Hutchinson says things went well for the first day of School in Wilkes County.

Break-in & Thefts
Break-ins continue across the county; however, the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department is making progress with a couple of arrests and stolen property recovered. Monday several items stolen from a Bethel Road residence were found in a storage building. Following the discovery of the stolen property, two people from Jonesville were arrested. Troy Lee Moser and Wendy Dawn Lundy were both arrested and charged with felony larceny.

Thefts
Thefts still under investigation include a break-in and theft from Bare Construction on Monday. According to the report, someone cut a lock from a building on the property and stole several tools and equipment totaling $2,100.00. There is a suspect and charges are pending. Also, another construction site was hit by thieves on Monday. A Wilkesboro man reported that several items including the kitchen sink were taken from a home still under construction on Cedar Ridge Drive.

Vehicle Break-ins
Automobiles have also been the target of thieves in the past week. A Wilkesboro man stated that his car was broken into while he was at work at Lowe’s Hardware. Someone pried open the window and stole a CD player and CD’s. There are no suspects. A Millers Creek resident reported that someone entered her unlocked vehicle parked at her residence and took a Ruger handgun. Finally, a woman employed by Mazella Knitting called Sheriff’s Officials to report money stolen from her car. The woman had put her pocketbook in the trunk of her car. However, a thief was able to enter the trunk and then took only the cash from her pocketbook. There have been similar incidents with other employees but are no suspects at this time.

Index Released
The Western N.C. Economic Index was released yesterday and there is good news on the job front. The index, which includes Wilkes County was up a full percentage point thanks in part to an overall improvement in the job market in 25 Western North Carolina counties.

Pet Adoption Fair
The Humane Society of Wilkes and the Wilkes County Animal Shelter will hold a Pet Adoption Fair on Saturday, August 12 from 10:30 AM until 3:00 PM at the Animal Shelter on Call St. in Wilkesboro. Please consider adopting a homeless dog, cat, kitten, or puppy. The adoption fee, which ranges from $55 - $90 depending on animal size and type, covers a vet exam, vaccines, and spay or neuter. Visit www.humanesocietyofwilkes.org to see some of the many pets in desperate need of good homes.

Regional News
A 37 year old Yadkin County woman was killed on Monday night in a motorcycle accident. Officials say that Shelley Sampson Matthews of Rockford Road crossed the centerline and struck a pickup coming through an intersection near the Fall Creek community.

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A Grand Jury in Statesville has indicted a 65-year-old woman charged with killing two Iredell County couples. Barbara Evans was indicted on four counts of first degree murder. She is charged in the deaths of James and Ruth Powell, and Don and Sue Barker.

Area Break-ins
Over the past few days several break-ins have been reported with a variety of items stolen. Both businesses and homes have been hit. According to a report filed with the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department, officers responded to an alarm at the Igloo of Millers Creek, but would-be thieves had already fled the scene. Officers did find broken glass at the back of the Igloo and damages are listed at $120.00. Apparently, the alarm did not chase of thieves at Creek Stop in Millers Creek. Approximately, 40 packs of cigarettes and over $500.00 in cash were taken from the Creek Stop before officers arrived. Also, someone broke open and entered the back door of the Mt. View Ruritan Club. A tarp and awning were taken from the Clubhouse; there are no suspects.
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A North Wilkesboro resident reported that 2 ceiling fans and various light bulbs were taken from their unfinished home. The house is still under construction and was unsecured. A Millers Creek woman reported that someone broke into their summer home on the Mertie Road and took several items valued at nearly $1700.00. Thieves gained entrance to the summer home by prying open a sliding glass door.

Stolen Wheels
And some here in Wilkes must believe it is better to steal wheels than to buy them. A North Wilkesboro resident had a Suzuki 250 4-wheeler stolen from behind his house. A McGrady man reported to Sheriff’s Officials that his Honda 300 4-wheeler was stolen from his residence while he was at church on Sunday. And finally, a Millers Creek resident had a Cub Cadet lawnmower stolen. There is no word on suspects in any of these stolen wheel cases, but investigations are ongoing.

Mailbox Problems in Wilkes
Locally, we are hoping to take a “stamp out of crime.” A couple of residents in Wilkes County have had problems over the past few days involving mailboxes. One North Wilkesboro woman reported that her mailbox had been damaged with a blunt instrument—causing $30.00 in damages. Another North Wilkesboro resident reported that both his mailbox and post had been stolen. Apparently, someone just ripped it out of the ground and rip it off—postage not paid.

Summer Vacation Is Over
It’s back to school for students in Wilkes County today. Please be aware of excited children waiting at bus stops around the county today. Teachers have been “back to school” since workdays began on August 1st. The 2006-2007 School calendar has 6 snow days built into the calendar and also one "no day" on February 5th in which students and 10 month employees do not attend school. The day was built into this year's calendar to be used as Snow Make-Up day if needed.

Foxx Comments
Recently, 3WC news spoke with Congresswoman Virginia Foxx who had just returned from Iraq. Mrs. Foxx commented on the gas prices that seem to be going higher and higher. According to Foxx this could be a blessing in disguise as it has brought more attention to alternative fuels.
Listen for more of our conversation with Congresswoman Foxx later this week on 3WC News.

Samaratian's Purse
As the crisis in the Middle East continues hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes and villages. Within days of the attacks international relief organization Samaritan's Purse received pleas for help. To meet the desperate needs of refugees Samaritan's Purse, based in Boone, began working with Christian partners in Lebanon, Syria and Israel to distribute food, cooking supplies, and medical items. To help call Samaritan's Purse at 1-800-789-1525.

Regional News
Yadkin County has offered the job of interim county manager to Eric Williams. Williams is the former city manager of Henderson. If Williams accepts the job he would replace Wilkes County's Cecil Wood who resigned last month after 10 uears as Yadkin's County Manager.
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Davie County Commissioners plan to put the slogan "In God We Trust" on it's administration building in about 60 days. Last night commissioners approved to allow a private group to pay for the display. When the vote was taken last night the commissioners recieved a standing ovation from the 60 people in attendance.
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Watauga County Commissioners voted last night to allow the use of windmills for on-site use. With that action Watauga became the first county in North Carolina to adopt an ordinance regulating wind-energy systems.
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The N.C. Highway Patrol will conduct Operation Summer Heat a 7-day long DWI crackdown in the state’s counties with the highest number of alcohol related collisions during the week of August 7th – August 13th. The goal of Summer Heat is to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities by increasing DWI patrols in areas that have a demonstrated history of alcohol related collisions or arrests. Last year during the summer months in North Carolina, 47 people died in 2,028 alcohol related collisions. Citizens may report crashes, drunk drivers, stranded motorists or other highway situations to the Highway Patrol by dialing *HP (*47) on their cellular telephones. This is a toll free call that connects the caller with the nearest Highway Patrol communications center.

Monday-August 7, 2006

Drug Arrests
A woman from Gastonia was arrested in Wilkes early this morning on drug and weapons charges. Wilkes County Sheriff’s Officials were conducting a traffic check on Hwy 115 about 3 am today, when Anne Thompson of Gastonia came through the checkpoint. She consented to a search of her vehicle, and officers found 2 baggies of marijuana, a drug pipe, 2 pistols, and a sawed off shotgun in her car. Thompson was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon of mass destruction and drug charges.
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Wilkes County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a Wilkes County man last night on drug charges and outstanding warrants. Emerson Barbosa was stopped on Hwy 421 just before 8 o’clock Sunday evening. Officers searched him and found two baggies of cocaine. Barbosa was arrested and charged with trafficking cocaine and possession with intent to sell, in addition to outstanding warrants for drug possession.
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Also Sunday night, Sheriff’s Deputies recognized a man in the back of a pickup in the Hardee’s parking lot on Hwy 421. The man, Kevin Ray Marlow, Jr., was arrested on drug paraphernalia charges and outstanding warrants for drug possession.

DWI Charges
A North Wilkesboro man was arrested early Sunday morning for driving while impaired. A Wilkes County Sheriff’s Deputy was riding behind a vehicle on Old 421 about 3am Sunday, when he noticed the vehicle go left of center twice and then run off the road to the right nearly hitting a mailbox. The car was stopped, and the driver—Donnie Jones of North Wilkesboro, blew a .27 on the intoxilizer. Jones was arrested and charged with DWI.

Break-ins
Break-ins usually keep Sheriff’s Deputies busy in Wilkes. Last week, a Shepherd River Road resident reported that someone pulled open their back door to enter the home. Taken from the residence was a TV and DVD/VCR player. There is a suspect and charges are pending.
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An Elledge Mill Road resident reported to Sheriff’s Officials that someone had taken some aluminum flashing from their front porch. The stolen property is valued at approximately $65.00. Again, there is a suspect.
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Another resident on Elledge Mill Road reportedly had a Sony CD player stolen from his car. The property owner stated that the car was secured when he went to bed. The next morning, he discovered the passenger side door open to his vehicle and the CD player missing. All these investigations are still underway at this time.

Wilkesboro Commissioners Meet Tonight
Wilkesboro Commissioners are scheduled to meet tonight at 7pm at Wilkesboro Town Hall. The commissioners are expected to consider the appointment of a commissioner to fill the seat of Tommy Bumgarner who passed away on January 20th after serving as a town commissioner for 10 years. The commissioners are also scheduled to hear from Town Manager Ken Noland in closed session concerning the hiring of a new Police Chief.

Naming of Section OF US 421 Approved
Last Tuesday the Wilkes County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to ask the N.C. Department of Transportation to name a 5-mile section of U.S. 421 in honor of racing legend Benny Parsons. The request has been unanimously approved by a road-naming committee of the N.C. Department of Transportation and now the request must now wait 30 days before being considered by the full board. The full board will meet in Raleigh on September 7th. Parsons is building a home in the Parsonsville Community of Wilkes County. The section of 421 that would honor Parsons would stretch from the Maple Springs community to the Watauga County line.

Last Day of “Vacation”
Today is the last day of Summer vacation and it’s back to school for students in Wilkes County on Tuesday. Teachers have been “back to school” since workdays began on August 1st. The 2006-2007 School calendar has 6 snow days built into the calendar and also one "no day" on February 5th in which students and 10 month employees do not attend school. The day was built into this year's calendar to be used as Snow Make-Up day if needed.

Stuff The Bus Ends Today
The final day for the annual Stuff the Bus program from Communities in Schools is today. If you want to donate supplies, there are buses at several locations including Wal-Mart, CVS, Eckerd, Staples and also between the First Baptist and First United Methodist Churches in North Wilkesboro. You can also drop off items at the Communities in Schools office. All types of school supplies are needed, everything from paper to pens to calculators. For more information you can call Communities in Schools at 651-7830.

Bid On Building
In other school related news, the Wilkes County Schools have received a bid on the now vacant Central Office Building on West Main Street in Wilkesboro. The bid came from Dr. R. Earnest Cohn on the 10,000 square foot building which has been appraised at $343,000. An upset bid must be received by August 15th or the School Board will either approve or reject Dr. Cohn’s offer.

Hispanic Population Growing
The US Census Bureau has released their race and ethnicity estimates at the county level. Hispanic growth rates were about 35 percent here in Wilkes County. The numbers also revealed that the Asian Population in Wilkes was on the rise as the number had almost doubled since the last Census. Neighboring Ashe, Surry, and Yadkin counties also saw the Hispanic population increase 35 percent. In Alleghany County their Hispanic population numbers went up a whopping 61 percent.

Foxx Comments
Last week 3WC news spoke with Congresswoman Virginia Foxx who had just returned from Iraq. Mrs. Foxx commented on the current conflict involving Israel, stating that she believed Israel had every right to protect themselves and their country. Listen for more of our conversation with Congresswoman Foxx later this week on 3WC News.

Special Blood Drive
As we enter the month of August, the blood supply here in Wilkes still stands at critical levels. With that in mind, the Red Cross is putting together a very special drive on August 8th. Melanie Shepard with the Red Cross explains that the drive will be all day from 9:30 am until 6pm. Once again that will be August 8th at the VFW here in Wilkes. For more information or to set up an appointment you can call the Red Cross at 838-4563.

Regional News
Last week's weather was so hot that the prisoners in Yadkin County had to be moved to a different facility. Officials say that temperatures inside reached as high as 90 degrees. The inmates were moved to facilities in neighboring counties.

Raccoon rabies is a major problem in Western North Carolina and to combat the problem the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services will be dropping small fishmeal-coated packets containing the rabies vaccine. The drops will take place in Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Swain, Yancey and Jackson counties over the next two weeks. Wildlife officials hope that the drop will help stop the spread of rabies in raccoons which can become aggressive enough to attack household pets.

Wreck Friday Morning
Two people were seriously injured in a traffic accident today and flown to Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem. According to Trooper Joe Rankin with North Carolina Highway Patrol, a ’93 Toyota Pickup driven by Roger Luther Hamby of Ferguson ran off the roadway and struck a tree. The accident happened about 11:40 am on Browns-Ford Road near Church Lumber Company. Both Hamby and his 13-year-old grandson, a passenger in the vehicle, were seriously injured and taken by Aircare to Baptist Hospital. There is no word at this time as to the cause of the accident.

Gunshot Investigation
A shooting investigation is being conducted by the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department following a report of a gunshot wound late yesterday. According to the 16-year-old victim from McGrady, he was walking Thursday evening in an open field, checking on his dog, when he heard a gun shot and then felt pain in his lower left side. The young reportedly did not see anyone and was able to walk back to his house to call for help. He was taken to Wilkes Regional Medical Center and later transported to Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. The gun shot wound was not life threatening.

Relay For Life Begins Friday
The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Event kicks off today at the Watson Stage at Wilkes Community College. Nearly $107,000 has already been raised by the 37 teams that will participate in the event. Organizers have a goal for this year’s walk that honors cancer survivors or victims of $160,000. Opening ceremonies will be held at 6pm with special guest speakers and entertainment continuing through the night. Closing ceremonies are set for 9am Saturday morning.

Foxx Comments
Yesterday 3WC news spoke with Congresswoman Virginia Foxx who had just returned from Iraq. Mrs. Foxx says you could tell that progress is being made as Iraqi citizens are taking pride in rebuilding. The Iraqi Interior Minister also stated that “they are the first line of defense against terrorism. If they fail, no country is safe.” Listen for more of our conversation with Congresswoman Foxx next week on 3WC News.

Appalachian Coach To Speak At Mt. Pleasant
People here in the area will get a chance to speak with Appalachian State football coach Jerry Moore this Saturday. On August 5th starting at 6:30pm, Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church will host Coach Moore at their Reach Center. The coach of the National Champion Mountaineers will be speaking about his faith in Christ and how it helped challenge and motivate his team. Then afterwards there will be a watermelon fellowship at the Reach Center where you can talk with Coach Moore.

Tourism is BIG Business
According to a new study, tourism is big business in Western North Carolina. The study conducted by Appalachian State and Western Carolina Universities says that visitors here spend an average of $90 per day while in the region, with overnight visitors typically spending an average of $23 or more per day, mostly because of accommodations and lodging. The mountain region, which includes Wilkes County drew more than half the annual $2 billion spent on tourism and travel in North Carolina each year.

Special Blood Drive
As we enter the month of August, the blood supply here in Wilkes still stands at critical levels. With that in mind, the Red Cross is putting together a very special drive on August 8th at the VFW here in Wilkes. For more information or to set up an appointment you can call the Red Cross at 838-4563.

Just Wanted To Play A Game
Wilkes County deputies are investigating a break in at an outbuilding in Wilkesboro. While the victim was away at church a surveillance camera recorded his next door neighbor entering the unlocked outbuilding and taking a Play station valued at $150. There are several other leads in the case and the investigation is continuing.

Time Set For Tax Free Holiday
Here in Wilkes County and across the state, the sales tax will be lifted this weekend. In all stores across the state, the holiday begins at 12:01am Friday morning and then ends at 11:59pm Sunday night. Here’s how it works. You won’t have to pay sales tax on any clothes or footwear that costs less than $100 per item or any school supplies that cost less than $100. That includes calculators, paper, pens and anything else school related. In addition, all sporting goods and other recreational equipment that costs less than $50 will be untaxed this weekend, along with all shoes that are $99 and less. Finally all computers that cost less than $3500 will be under the tax free banner this weekend. For more information you can check out the link which is available through our newsblog. Just go to www.12403wc.com and click on the link at the end of this story. www.dornc.com/taxes/sales/salestax_holiday.html

Rabies
According to the Wilkes County Health Department, this summer, at least 20+ people have received rabies post-exposure vaccination in Wilkes County. The most common kinds of exposure in Wilkes are people's pets coming into contact with rabid animals or people being exposed to bats that cannot be tested for rabies. Junior Simmons with Animal Control explains that this is why it is a good idea to get pets vaccinated now. For more information about preventing rabies, go to wilkeshealth.com and scroll towards the bottom of our webpage and click on communicable diseases.

Stuff The Bus Continuing
As kids around Wilkes prepare for the first day of school next Tuesday, one organization is working to make sure they have the materials needed for class. The annual Stuff the Bus program from Communities in Schools is still up and running through Monday August 7th. If you want to donate supplies, there are buses at several locations including Wal-Mart, CVS, Eckerd, Staples and also between the First Baptist and First United Methodist Churches in North Wilkesboro. You can also drop off items at the Communities in Schools office.

MORE HEAT AND HUMIDITY ON TODAY
ONE MORE DAY OF HOT WEATHER IS EXPECTED FOR NORTHWEST NORTH CAROLINA TODAY. HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE IN THE MID TO UPPER 90S. COMBINED WITH DEW POINTS IN THE LOWER 70S...THE HEAT INDEX THIS AFTERNOON WILL EXCEED 100 DEGREES. A FRONT WILL APPROACH THE AREA ON FRIDAY...LEADING TO MORE CLOUDS AND A BETTER CHANCE OF RAIN...ALONG WITH HIGH TEMPERATURES IN THE
LOWER 90S. HEAT INDICES AROUND 100 DEGREES POSE A THREAT OF HEAT ILLNESSES. IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE OUTSIDE FOR A PROLONGED PERIOD TODAY...PLAN ACCORDINGLY FOR THE HOT WEATHER. BE SURE TO DRINK PLENTY OF WATER AND TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS.

Hit & Run
A Moravian Falls man was arrested yesterday following a hit & run in downtown Wilkesboro just before 11am Wednesday. A car driven by Wanda Holland slowed to turn right into the Wachovia Bank parking lot when another vehicle driven by Brandon Kilby crashed into the back of Holland’s car. Kilby immediately left the scene of the crime. However, he was found by Wilkesboro Police and charged with felony hit & run.

Explosive Recovery
If you find old blasting caps in a barn or outbuilding, don’t try to dispose of them yourself. In Wilkes County, we do have professionals to handle potentially dangerous materials. Case in point, the Hazardous Devices Unit of the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Department was called to remove 2 old blasting caps from a Bynum residence. The caps were legally purchased but needed to be disposed of properly and safely.

Home Break-in
Wilkes County Sheriff’s Officials were also called to investigate a home break-in at a residence on the Mertie Road. According to the victim, several items were taken from the home including 2 gas blowers, garden edger, and 22 rifle. A neighbor did report seeing a suspicious vehicle, and Sheriff’s Officials do have a possible suspect.

Stolen Gun
Another stolen rifle was reported to the Sheriff’s Department. This firearm was taken from a vehicle and not a residence. The victim stated that he had stopped at a business in Ronda. When he returned to his truck, he noticed the Marlin Rifle was missing. There were no witnesses and are no suspects at this time.

Relay For Life Begins Friday
The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Event kicks off Friday at the Watson Stage at Wilkes Community College. Nearly $107,000 has already been raised by the 37 teams that will participate in the event. Organizers have a goal for this year’s walk that honors cancer survivors or victims of $160,000. Opening ceremonies will be held at 6pm with special guest speakers and entertainment continuing through the night. Closing ceremonies are set for 9am Saturday morning.

Meeting For Clingmen Area Residents
The Clingman Community Center Board of Directors would like to invite anyone interested in the rebuilding of the Clingman Community Center to an Open Forum on Sunday, August 13, 2006 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church on Clingman Road. You are invited to attend the meeting and voice your concerns about the rebuilding of the Clingman Community Center.

Stuff The Bus Continuing
As kids around Wilkes prepare for the first day of school next Tuesday, one organization is working to make sure they have the materials needed for class. The annual Stuff the Bus program from Communities in Schools is still up and running until Monday, August 7th. If you want to donate supplies, there are buses at several locations including Wal-Mart, CVS, Eckerd, Staples and also between the First Baptist and First United Methodist Churches in North Wilkesboro. You can also drop off items at the Communities in Schools office. All different types of school supplies are needed, everything from paper to pens to calculators. For more information you can call Communities in Schools at 651-7830.

New Cell Phone Law
Governor Mike Easley signed a new cell phone law into effect yesterday. Drivers under the age of 18 caught using a cell phone could face a $25 fine and a six-month extension to their graduated driver's license. The law, which goes into effect Dec. 1st was recommended by the Child Fatality Task Force.

NEWS For August 3, 2006

MORE HEAT AND HUMIDITY ON TODAY

ONE MORE DAY OF HOT WEATHER IS EXPECTED FOR NORTHWEST NORTH CAROLINA TODAY. HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE IN THE MID TO UPPER 90S. COMBINED WITH DEW POINTS IN THE LOWER 70S...THE HEAT INDEX THIS AFTERNOON WILL EXCEED 100 DEGREES. A FRONT WILL APPROACH THE AREA ON FRIDAY...LEADING TO MORE CLOUDS AND A BETTER CHANCE OF RAIN...ALONG WITH HIGH TEMPERATURES IN THE
LOWER 90S. HEAT INDICES AROUND 100 DEGREES POSE A THREAT OF HEAT ILLNESSES. IF YOU ARE GOING TO BE OUTSIDE FOR A PROLONGED PERIOD TODAY...PLAN ACCORDINGLY FOR THE HOT WEATHER. BE SURE TO DRINK PLENTY OF WATER AND TAKE FREQUENT BREAKS.

Drug Possession & DWI
An Elkin man was arrested by Wilkes County Sheriff’s Deputies yesterday for drug possession and DWI. The man was stopped at a license checkpoint at the Intersection of Austin Little Mountain Church Road and Granger Road. Over $7,000 in cash and a one-pound brick of compacted marijuana was discovered in the man’s possession. He also blew a .12 on the Intoxilizer. The man, Alton Smoot of Elkin, was arrested and charged with DWI, driving with license revoked, possession with intent to sell, and maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances.

Stolen John Deere
The slogan is “Nothing Runs Like a Deere” and not “nothing steals like a Deere.” A Millers Creek man learn the lesson of “Thou Shalt Not Steal” yesterday after taking a John Deere lawn mower from a Westwood Lane residence. Wilkesboro Police were able to recover the stolen mower and to arrest the Deere thief.

Funds Donated for Wilkes History
The Save Our Wilkes county History Committee wishes to thank Mr. Doug Miller and Ms. Kate Phllips on behalf of the Ginn Corporation for the gift of $15,000 to help preserve the history of Wilkes. The Committee is seeking people who will loan photographs, tapes, genealogies, and other histories. The intent is to produce 50 oral history tapes of our citizens with an emphasis on Wilkes Veterans. The final products will be in the Wilkes Heritage Museum, local libraries, and anywhere people gather to seek historical information.

Home Break-in
Wilkes County Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating a home break-in at a residence on the Mertie Road. According to the victim, several items were taken from the home including 2 gas blowers, garden edger, and 22 rifle. A neighbor did report seeing a suspicious vehicle, and Sheriff’s Officials do have a possible suspect.

Stolen Gun
Another stolen rifle was reported to the Sheriff’s Department. This firearm was taken from a vehicle and not a residence. The victim stated that he had stopped at a business in Ronda. When he returned to his truck, he noticed the Marlin Rifle was missing. There were no witnesses and are no suspects at this time.

Relay For Life Begins Friday
The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Event kicks off Friday at the Watson Stage at Wilkes Community College. Nearly $107,000 has already been raised by the 37 teams that will participate in the event. Organizers have a goal for this year’s walk that honors cancer survivors or victims of $160,000. Opening ceremonies will be held at 6pm with special guest speakers and entertainment continuing through the night. Closing ceremonies are set for 9am Saturday morning.

Meeting For Clingmen Area Residents
The Clingman Community Center Board of Directors would like to invite anyone interested in the rebuilding of the Clingman Community Center to an Open Forum on Sunday, August 13, 2006 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church on Clingman Road. You are invited to attend the meeting and voice your concerns about the rebuilding of the Clingman Community Center.

Stuff The Bus Continuing
As kids around Wilkes prepare for the first day of school next Tuesday, one organization is working to make sure they have the materials needed for class. The annual Stuff the Bus program from Communities in Schools is still up and running until Monday, August 7th. If you want to donate supplies, there are buses at several locations including Wal-Mart, CVS, Eckerd, Staples and also between the First Baptist and First United Methodist Churches in North Wilkesboro. You can also drop off items at the Communities in Schools office. All different types of school supplies are needed, everything from paper to pens to calculators. For more information you can call Communities in Schools at 651-7830.

New Cell Phone Law
Governor Mike Easley signed a new cell phone law into effect yesterday. Drivers under the age of 18 caught using a cell phone could face a $25 fine and a six-month extension to their graduated driver's license. The law, which goes into effect Dec. 1st was recommended by the Child Fatality Task Force.