News & Sports For September 12th

Red Cross Offers Opportunity To Help
While supplies continue to be donated across Wilkes County, many people can’t afford to give money or other items. If you find yourself in that situation and still want to help, the Red Cross is offering the first of several training sessions tomorrow night. In order to volunteer for any type of disaster relief, people first have to complete the Red Cross training sessions. Tuesday night the first one will be held from 6-9:30pm. To get more information you can call the local Red Cross at 838-4563.

Foxx Vote Raises Questions
How much of our government’s aid dollars will actually make it to the victims of Hurricane Katrina? That question was brought up late last week in the U.S. House by 5th District Congresswoman Virginia Foxx. Foxx asked why there wasn’t any guidelines as to what the $51.8 billion will be spent on, with no money set aside for rebuilding areas damaged by the storm. Instead all of the money as it stands now would be placed in the hands of state officials, to be spent on whatever they decide. As a result, Foxx was one of eleven members who voted against the bill. All of those members are calling for the bill to be revised, to provide relief directly to those families who were hit hard, instead of putting the money in the hands of the state. Members of the Democratic Party meanwhile have come out and attacked the eleven, saying that there was no reason to revise the bill and accusing them of abandoning the hurricane victims.

Deputies Discover Bombs And Drugs
Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a Wilkes County residence late last week to serve a warrant, only to later discover homemade explosives. Deputies announced their presence when they arrived at the home and heard people yelling inside, saying to hide it under the chair. Once they came inside they served the warrant for assault on one of the suspects, but also found two silver cartridges with fuses attached. Also found inside was a 30-06 rifle, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Marijuana seeds were later found along with plants being grown inside the house. Jason Howard Greene and Travis Nathaniel Pierce were charged with maintaining a dwelling for the sale of drugs, drug possession and possessing a weapon of mass destruction.

Early Morning Wake Up Call
A Roaring River man woke up early Thursday morning after a loud noise outside his home. He came out to find dents and damage to the side of the house, where a two by four had slammed against it. The board had been left by the vandals, with around $40 worth of damage done. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to help get men informed about the deadly disease and what can be done to diagnose it. September 23rd there will be a free clinic here in Wilkes, available for any men 45 or older. From 9am until 2pm, people can come in and get checked for the disease. For more information, you can call 838-5655.

Deputies Investigate Forged Checks
A Traphill woman noticed that her bank account was lower than it should be over the weekend. She checked and found that someone had been writing checks and forging her name. She contacted sheriff’s deputies and turned over the information, including a suspect’s name. That investigation is ongoing.

Always Keep Your Doors Locked
It’s always a good idea to lock your car doors when you leave. A Wilkesboro man learned that the hard way over the weekend, after he came back and found thieves had paid him a visit. The man had left $5000 in his car and forgot to lock the doors. He then walked into a nearby store and returned to find the money was gone. Wilkesboro police are investigating the case.

State News

Hurricane Ophelia Heading To NC
With the Gulf Coast still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, now people in North Carolina are being advised to watch out. Hurricane Ophelia is sitting just off the cost with wind speeds of 85 mph. By no means as strong as Katrina, the storm has still brought on hurricane watches for 250 miles of coastline. Governor Mike Easley declared a state of emergency over the weekend, but it’s not clear where the storm will turn. Officials from the National Hurricane Center said that it could drift on out to sea or make a move toward North Carolina. If it does head back toward land, that would be around late Tuesday night.

Job Fairs In The Works For Evacuees
More help is coming for hurricane victims in North Carolina. Later this week, there will be two job fairs set up in the Charlotte area, to help people find jobs. While details haven’t been finalized yet, over fifty different companies will be involved, including Coca-Cola and Home Depot. Those fairs will be open to hurricane victims only and identification will be checked.

Big Plans In Store For Kernersville
Good news for people in the Kernersville area, as plans are starting to take shape for the former Pillowtex building. It was purchased earlier this year by billionaire David Murdock, who announced he was going to transform the property into a biotechnology complex. Later today, Murdock will be at the plant to unveil the finalized plans and explain what exactly will be involved. Murdock, a California native, said that he hopes to revitalize the area’s economy by getting the complex up and running. 4800 people were left without a job when the plant closed down in 2003.

Hurricane Victims Robbed In Gastonia
If losing their home to Hurricane Katrina wasn’t enough, a family from Louisiana returned to their hotel room this weekend to find they’d been robbed. The family, who had been put up in a hotel by people in Gaston County, came back to discover $6200 worth of items had gone missing. Included in the theft were two cameras and $300, among other things. Officials said that the thieves gained access to the room by using guest keys, although it’s unclear why they were accepted. The investigation is ongoing.

Andy Griffith Makes Donation
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill just became one of the largest collectors of Mayberry memorabilia. Andy Griffith announced over the weekend that he was donating film footage, manuscripts and other items stretching across his entire 55 year career to the school. The documents will be used as part of the university’s Southern Historical Collection, which currently holds more than 15 million items.

Sports Headlines

High School Scoreboard
Taking a look around the high school scene last night, it was West Wilkes beating Bishop McGuiness 24-7. With the win, the team heads into a bye week at 3-1, their best record in two years. Just up the road at East Wilkes the news wasn’t so good for Cardinal fans, as their team lost as heartbreaker 14-7, to drop in the standing to 2-2. And in our 3WC Game Of The Week, it was North Wilkes breaking a two year losing streak with a win against Alleghany 35-7, earning Coach Roy Carter his first victory as a Viking.

College Football Scoreboard
Around the college scene, it was a bad weekend for teams from North Carolina. The UNC Tarheels lost their opening game 27-21 to Georgia Tech, after a mistake filled afternoon. The Tarheels had a chance to come back and win the game, but quarterback Matt Baker was intercepted three times in the last six minutes. Meanwhile Appalachian State had a chance early, but saw their hopes die in the second half of a 36-8 loss against Kansas. Appalachian trailed by less than two touchdowns at halftime with the score 13-0. But the defense caved in the second half and Kansas soon took control. In Durham, the Duke Blue Devils didn’t have any chance, as they were clocked 45-0 by Marcus Vick and his Virginia Tech Hokies.

Panthers Fall In Season Opener
In the NFL, penalties and mistakes ended up costing the Carolina Panthers in their home opener. They lost 23-20 to the New Orlean Saints on a last second field goal by Saints kicker John Carney. The Panthers appeared to have some communication problems, as they were tagged eleven times for penalties totaling 84 yards. Stephen Davis and Steve Smith came out in full force however, as Smith had eight catches for 138 yards and Davis rushed 13 times for 81 yards in his return from knee surgery.

Parker Makes NFL Debut
The news was better however for a former North Carolina player. Third year running back Willie Parker made his debut for the Pittsburgh Steelers and racked up 161 rushing yards as the team cruised to a 34-7 victory. Parker was put into the starting lineup after injuries to both Jerome Bettis and Deuce Staley during the preseason.

Chase For The Cup Begins After Richmond
In NASCAR, the ten man playoff field has been set after Saturday’s Rock & Roll 400. Kurt Busch took the checkered flag and announced he was donating half of the night’s winnings to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Also he donated half of the night’s souvenir sales. Meanwhile Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhart Jr. are out, while Ryan Newman and Jeremy Mayfield are in the race. So the Chase for the cup shapes up like this. It’s Tony Stewart, Jimmie Johnson, Ryan Newman, Jeremy Mayfield, Rusty Wallace, Greg Biffle, Carl Edwards, Mark Martin, Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth. Now under the Chase rules, everyone is basically back at square one. First place Tony Stewart has only a five point lead over second place Biffle, with all other drivers also separated by only five points each.

News & Sports For September 9th

More Disaster Relief Springs Up In Wilkes
The people of Wilkes continue to come out in support of those affected by the hurricane. You can drop off supplies at Calvary Baptist Church from 10am until 2pm on Saturday. They’re accepting donations in the fellowship hall and as soon as they finish collecting, a mission team from the church will head down to Mississippi and start distributing. The church is also taking financial donations, which can be made out to the Calvary Baptist Disaster Relief Fund. All money will be used to buy needed items for the survivors. For information you can call Jean Hodges at 973-4194. Also on Saturday, Old Fashioned Baptist Church will be holding a prayer service all day long for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. You can show up any time from 8am til 9pm and lift up your prayers. For people who still have donations they wish to give, you can bring them to the old K-Mart Building, where volunteers will get them organized and ready to ship to Mississippi. Also if you want to volunteer, for one hour or however long you can, you can call Pastor Larry Adams and set that up. His number is 667-8660. The Wilkesboro Church of Christ, in connection with Empire Nissan, is holding a drive for items. Collection points are set up at Lowes Foods and Food Lion locations here in the county and you can also bring supplies to the church itself, located at 1103 Walnut Circle in Wilkesboro. Several thousand dollars worth of goods have already been sent down by the church to a shelter in Charlotte that’s housing about 800 hurricane victims. For more information you can call Tom Harrelson at 838-5695. And if you missed our reports of other donation drives in the county, just call our 3WC Studios here at 838-9992 and we’ll be glad to give you that information.

Thieves Break Into Millers Creek Market
Sheriff’s deputies were called out to the Millers Creek Market earlier this week after thieves broke in and gained access to the safe. They broke in through a door in the back, then located and cracked the safe. Stolen from inside was just over $18,000 in cash and coins, along with a 9mm semi automatic. The thieves also busted open the video poker machines in the store and stole 60 cartons of cigarettes before leaving. There are suspects and the investigation is ongoing.

Wreck On 421 Totals Two
Two cars were wrecked in an accident Tuesday night on 421. A woman from Lutz North Carolina was attempting to turn onto the highway from a side road, but failed to notice the oncoming traffic. She slammed into a Winston Salem man, who couldn’t slow down in time to avoid the collision. An estimated $4000 worth of damage was done in the wreck, however thankfully no one was seriously injured.

Farmers Facing Deadline For Support
Time’s up for any farmers who haven’t sent in their information to the state. Money will go out today to anyone whose farm was damaged by the hurricane, regardless of if it was crop loss or rebuilding costs. However some farmers, when filling out aid sheets, refused to allow the state to share their information with federal agencies. No information means no money, since the Department of Agriculture is the one in charge of sending out the checks. Without that information they don’t know where to send the aid. According to the Department, over a hundred farmers, including some here in Wilkes, still haven’t given the ok to share that information. To do that, you need to go by the local Cooperative Extension office and pick up a consent form today. As long as you turn one in today if you haven’t already then you’ll be able to receive aid. To call for more information, their number is 651-7331.

Birthday Party Today For Our House
Later on this afternoon, the candles will be lit and the celebration will start as Our House celebrates 10 years in ministry. In honor of the occasion, there will be a floating birthday party of sorts, open to the public from 4-6pm with cake, ice cream and punch on the menu. But in addition, the organization is using this time to hold a diaper drive. This time of year is the United Way’s annual blackout date, meaning that any group involved with the charity has to suspend any type of fund raising. However because of the need involved, Our House has been cleared to hold a diaper drive today. Everyone is welcome to attend the event and for more information you can call Special Projects Coordinator Sherry Mayberry at Our House. The number is 667-5555.

Blood Drive Going On Today
We’ve all heard about the destruction throughout Mississippi and Louisiana and efforts are going on to send down supplies. But even if you can’t afford to donate food or clothes, you can help in another way. The Red Cross is holding a blood drive today, in order to send units down south. It will be held at the Moravian Falls Fire Department from 3-7:30pm. Just remember before giving blood you must be at least 17 years old and weigh no less than 110 lbs.

Humane Society Holding Adoption Fair Tomorrow
For anyone who’s looking for a furry friend to take home, the Wilkes Humane Society will be holding an adoption fair on Saturday. The event will go on in front of GNC between Wal-Mart and Lowes Foods in Wilkesboro, from 10am until 4:30pm. There is an adoption fee, however that covers all cost for vet exam, all vaccines and spay/neuter charges. You can see for yourself what pets are available to adopt at www.humanesocietyofwilkes.org.

Just Came In For A Look Around
Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a Traphill residence earlier this week after neighbors noticed the door was wide open. The homeowner is in the hospital and people have been coming by to feed her dog, but when they stopped by earlier this week, the door was standing wide open. Nothing was taken from the home, but the freezer was also open, in addition to the medicine cabinets, where it appears someone had been searching. The homeowner’s safe had also been located and placed on the bed, but it appears the thief failed to get it open. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Wilkes Regional Has Website To Help Community
Medical information is just a click away now for people here in Wilkes County. Wilkes Regional Medical Center has launched their own website, keeping people informed about improvements at the hospital, different doctors coming in and also providing a medical library, where you can go online and look up answers to certain medical questions. The site, which is available in both Spanish and English, can be found at www.wilkesregional.com.

WCC To Host Financial Class For Adults
Sometimes it can be a pain collecting on a debt. Regardless if it’s something owed by a neighbor or payment charged to your business. Coming up later this month, Wilkes Community College is holding a seminar, to help people understand what their legal rights are in such a situation. Such as what are your options for collecting a bad debt? What to do when a debtor skips town? The meeting is free, however you must register ahead of time to get in. To sign up, you can call WCC at 838-6210. That will take place on September 29th, sponsored by the Small Business Center of the college.

State News

Expect A Price Increase This Winter
It looks like the cheapest way to heat your home this winter will involve an axe.
Last week 3WC News told you about increases coming in natural gas this winter. Now comes news from several companies in the energy business that you can expect all forms of heating to go up in cost. Across the board, heating oil costs will rise an estimated 31% according to energy analysts, while natural gas will jump at least 40%. People who use electric heat won’t be safe either, as the cost of it will climb 17%.

Evacuees Make Their Way To NC
North Carolina appears to be the spot of choice for some of the victims of Hurricane Katrina. In addition to those brought in by the Red Cross and other agencies, 200 more have come to North Carolina on their own. According to the Red Cross, several families walked, drove and did whatever necessary to make it to the Tarheel state. Most of them now have found temporary homes in Greensboro and plan to set up permanent residence in the area.

Jobs Going To Evacuees
People are up in arms throughout North Carolina, due in part to some controversial decisions involving jobs. With so many evacuees coming in from Louisiana and Mississippi, it’s just reality that they have to find ways of paying the bills. But several companies are offering permanent positions to these evacuees, a decision that has people who have stood in the unemployment lines looking for a job seriously upset. The Employment Security Commission is coordinating the job hunt with assistance from businesses around the state. Some people are calling into question how companies who had to lay off workers months ago are finding the money available to hire on new help.

Panthers Help Needy Fans
Some evacuees living in Charlotte will have a chance to forget about their problems for a few hours this Sunday. The Carolina Panthers have donated 350 tickets to this Sunday’s home opener to Saints fans who are in shelters in the city. The tickets for the sold out game were given by the panthers, donated by family and friends who had already paid to come but wanted to do something special for those in need. In addition, the team is holding their own Beads For the Bayou drive, collecting canned food and other items during the game. In return, people receive Mardi Gras beads.

The Return Of Fletcher
Just when you thought it was over, the legal battle continues in the school superintendent’s race. June Atkinson has already assumed her post and challenger Bill Fletcher says he doesn’t dispute that she won. However he still wants a judge to hear his challenge. This week, Fletcher filed papers requesting a new hearing in the case, saying that he’s not trying to take Atkinson’s job now, but wants to set a precedent for future elections. Fletcher’s argument is that provisional ballots cast out of the voter’s precinct are unconstitutional and shouldn’t be counted in any race. A judge has yet to decide if the case will be heard.

Sports Headlines

Friday Night Football
With clear skies in the forecast tonight, the 3WC Sports Team will make their way over to North Wilkes for our Friday night broadcast. Tonight we’ll have North Wilkes playing host to Alleghany, with Ken Byrd and Keith Briand over in Vikings Country bringing you the play by play action. Meanwhile Brian Carlton will be back at the station, keeping you up to date on the other games going on in the area, as Wilkes Central travels to Watauga, East Wilkes plays host to East Surry and West Wilkes has a home game against Bishop McGuiness. The McDonald’s pregame show goes on the air at 7:15pm and kickoff is set for 7:30 on your home for local sports, 1240 3WC.

Local Racetrack Holds Donation Drive
For all the racing fans out there, next week you can watch a great event and also help some families in need. Next Saturday the 17th, Friendship Motor Speedway is putting on a “Race For Relief” in connection with Tyson Foods. People coming in to watch the races are being asked to bring any and all donations, from canned food to hygiene products to any type of monetary gift. That will all be packed up in a car hauler and shipped down to an area in need. In addition, the high price of gas has caused some changes on the track’s schedule. Races will be held in Elkin now on every other week throughout the rest of the season. Alternating weeks like that, the track officials said they hope to cut down on some of the cost that drivers and fans alike will have to pay.

North Carolina Sets Lineup
In college football, with time ticking down until their matchup Saturday against Georgia Tech, The UNC Tarheels announced their starting lineup on Thursday. Most of the spots had already been decided, such as Matt Baker taking over at quarterback, but two players were knocked out by challengers who performed better during the preseason. Senior strong safety Mahlon Carey will take over from sophomore Timane Goddard. Also junior linebacker Larry Edwards won the starting job over senior Jeff Longhany. Coach Bunting said that Carey and Edwards were the better players on a defense that he said was stronger and better prepared than last season, when the Heels gave up 36 points a game.

Minor League Scoreboard
The season came to an end last night for the Winston Salem Warthogs, as they were swept in the first round of the playoffs. Kinston beat the Warthogs last night 8-1, after Warthogs’ starter Ray Liotta gave up seven runs in 4 2/3 innings. The Warthogs took the lead in the second inning, after a home run by Travis Hinston, but surrendered it in the fourth and never scored again.

Davis Sets Goal In Return
For some, just returning to the field after surgery is a big deal, but not for Panthers running back Stephen Davis. Having been cleared to play and after winning the starting job, Davis has already set a goal for himself this season. He wants to carry the ball at least 300 times. He said after rehab, he feels stronger than he has in two years and is ready to run 20 to 25 times a game, whenever the team needs him. Coming off microfracture knee surgery, Davis will split time in the backfield with Deshaun Foster and Nick Goings, both of whom took over after he went down last season. The Panthers take the field Sunday against the New Orlean Saints.

Crocker Makes Debut
In NASCAR, tonight is the night for Erin Crocker. She’ll make her debut in the Busch Series as teams head into Richmond. Driving for Everham Motorsports, Crocker, who has several top ten finishes under her belt in the “minor leagues” so far, hopes to validate the company’s trust by excelling at the Busch level. Everham officials said that if she does well over the last few races this season, Crocker might make an appearance or two in the Nextel Cup in 2006.

News & Sports For September 7th

Donations Continue To Be Taken
As the need continues to grow throughout the Gulf Coast, more relief efforts are springing up here in Wilkes County. The State Employees Credit Union, in connection with the Red Cross, is taking up donations of both supplies and money. You can drop that by over the next few days and all those donations will be turned over to the Red Cross to send down. Harvest Time Christian Ministries is preparing to send down another trailer filled with supplies to people devastated by the storm. Four trailers have already been delivered to the different relief sites and the ministry hopes to send more in the coming days. Right now the fifth trailer is parked at Harvest Time Ministries, located at 501 C Street in Wilkesboro and being loaded. Everything is needed with the exception of clothes. After their latest shipment, relief workers told the ministry that there were more than enough clothes to go around, however food and other necessities are still desperately needed. People can come by and donate at any time and if there’s no one around, you can drop off items on the porch of Harvest Time Ministries. If you have any questions, you can call Gene Shepard at 667-6071. Calvary Baptist Church has opened their Fellowship Hall as a drop site for any items to be donated. You can come by and give from 5-7pm today and Thursday, then also this coming Saturday from 10am til 2pm. A mission team from the church will then take those supplies down as soon as they can get them loaded, to be divided between three towns in need: Roberts Louisiana, Amete Louisiana and Springfield Louisiana. Also financial donations will be taken to buy food for the survivors. If you want to give that way, please make checks out to Calvary Baptist Disaster Relief Fund. For more information you can call Jean Hodges at 973-4194. Finally Union United Methodist Church is collecting healthcare and baby supplies to send down. The church, located on Curtis Bridge Road will have someone available from 9am til 5pm on Wednesday and from 9am til noon on Thursday. For more information you can give them a call at 667-8670.

Notes From Commissioners’ Meeting
The Wilkes County Commissioners met last night and approved several issues. A moratorium of six months was issued, preventing any sex based businesses from entering the county until the end of that period. During that time, county officials will be working on plans to regulate such businesses, to prevent any problems and deal with concerns. The 4th week of September was also designated as Wilkes Cares Recognition and Appreciation Week, while Make a Difference Day was announced as being October 22nd. This year’s budget has set forth $9850 to pay for materials in the day’s plans. The week of September 17th through the 23rd was set aside as Constitution Week, honoring the 223rd anniversary of the drafting of the constitution.

Deadline Fast Approaching For Farmers
There are two days left for Wilkes County farmers to receive state funds if their property was damage by hurricanes last year. State aid money will be sent out this Friday, September 9th to anyone who suffered crop losses or had to rebuild from last year’s storms. However when filing out their information sheet, several hundred farmers throughout North Carolina refused to allow the state to share their information with federal agencies. This causes a problem because the Department of Agriculture is the one in charge of sending out the aid money & without that consent form, they don’t know who to send it to. The deadline to turn in a form is September 9th and you can pick one up at the Cooperative Extension office. To call for more information, their number is 651-7331.

Focus On Foxx
Every day when we drive to the pump, people wonder why gas prices are so high. What got us to this point? Congresswoman Virginia Fox believes that some of our past decisions are catching up with us. The Congresswoman will be Brian’s guest during Focus on the Foothills this week, as they’ll be discussing the gas shortage, what the lottery will mean for North Carolina and other issues that affect the 5th District. That’s coming up tomorrow at 1:05pm right after the midday stock report.

Break-In At Traphill Home
A Traphill woman called sheriff’s deputies earlier this week after returning home to find someone had beaten her there. Thieves had broke in through the front door and gone through the house, but only ran off with a ouija board and $300 worth of cards. There is a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

Our House To Hold Birthday Celebration This Friday
This Friday the candles will be lit and the celebration will start as Our House celebrates 10 years in ministry. In honor of the occasion, there will be a floating birthday party of sorts, open to the public from 4-6pm with cake, ice cream and punch on the menu. But in addition, the organization is using this time to hold a diaper drive. This time of year is the United Way’s annual blackout date, meaning that any group involved with the charity has to suspend any type of fund raising. However because of the need involved, Our House has been cleared to hold a diaper drive on Friday the 9th. Everyone is welcome to attend the event and for more information you can call Special Projects Coordinator Sherry Mayberry at Our House. The number is 667-5555.

More Stolen Gas
Even as gas prices start to drop in the county, some people in the area are refusing to pay at the pump. Gas thieves hit Foster’s Grocery over the holiday weekend, as a woman pulled up to the pump, put in $45 into her vehicle and then drove off without paying. A description of both the driver and car were turned over to sheriff’s deputies. That investigation is ongoing.

Ran Off With The Weed-eater
The high gas prices apparently lead to a theft in the Boomer community this week. A man walked out to his storage building on Monday, only to find that the door was open and some items were missing. Taken from inside was a weed-eater along with a half full gas can. There are no suspects and it’s unknown how someone gained access to the building, as no damage was done, despite the homeowner’s declaration that he had locked it. That investigation is ongoing.

State News

Package Left Behind By Hijacker Destroyed
On Monday night, Charlotte police evacuated the Greyhound bus terminal on West Trade Street after reports came in of an attempted hijacking. As passengers were getting off a man jumped into the driver’s seat holding a package and announced he was going to drive the bus to Washington. Police detained the man and took the package, which was addressed to the White House. They later detonated the box, although it was never determined what was inside. The suspect is now at Carolinas Medical Center where his mental state is being evaluated. No decision has been made as to if he’ll face charges.

More Katrina Evacuees Head To NC
More evacuees made their way to North Carolina on Tuesday, as 500 people arrived in Greensboro. 500 more are expected in Guilford County by the end of the week. Until homes can be found for temporary housing, all of the evacuees will be staying in the Greensboro Coliseum. Along with those arrived earlier in the week, Gov. Mike Easley welcomed them to North Carolina. The state government is working to get all the students into schools and colleges, while also finding jobs for the adults. FaithAction, a religious group out of Greensboro is coordinating the placement of the people and developing care teams for each family. Those teams will help determine what medical care is needed, assist in setting up food stamps for those who are eligible along with Medicaid and dealing with other needs. The group is still needing congregations to help, if not to house people then to be part of the care teams. For more information you can call 336-379-0037.

North Carolina Under Emergency State
North Carolina finds itself under a state of emergency today, as President Bush made the announcement on Monday. Placing North Carolina under the state of emergency means that both state and local governments will have access to federal funds in helping to relocate and support the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Senator Elizabeth Dole spoke after the President’s announcement, thanking him for helping the state to provide the best assistance possible.

More Jobs Headed To Surry County
Good news today for people in Surry County, as more jobs are headed to the area. Poli-Twine Inc., a company that makes synthetic rope is planning to build their first U.S. factory in Pilot Mountain. The move, which comes after a grant of $200,00 from Easley’s One North Carolina Fund, will generate 80 new jobs in the area. The Canadian company bought the Wellington Leisure Products plant and will begin renovations on October 1st. Company officials hope to have the plant up and running by February of next year. For job applications you can go to the Mount Airy office of the Employment Security Commission.

Terror Suspect Kills Wife & Daughter In Hendersonville
A mother and daughter from Hendersonville are in the hospital today after a suspect from the terrorist watch list attacked them both over the holiday. 22-yr-old Mohammed Al-Hilo is an Iraqi suspected of having ties to terrorist networks. He, along with his common law wife and baby daughter had been living in Hendersonville. Police received a phone call Monday night from the address, as a little girl told them that her daddy had just killed her mommy. Al-Hilo was arrested a few minutes later, after he had just tried to kill both his daughter and himself. He failed however and now all three are in the hospital. The wife and daughter are in critical condition while Al-Hilo is in serious condition.

Sports Headlines

Wake Forest Injured List Grows
Some bad news today for Wake Forest football fans, as several members of the team were placed on the injured list. Starting linebacker Jon Abbate pulled his hamstring in last Saturday’s game and may miss the trip to Nebraska this week. Abbate, a sophomore who led the team last year with 101 tackles as a freshman, will most likely be a gametime decision. A player who will definitely miss Saturday’s game and might not return this season is sophomore Brodie Overstreet. The guard is heading back to the doctor and possibly will need surgery to repair some damage in his right eye. The problem has been there for the last two years but has become worse with time. It’s unknown if Brodie will ever suit up for the Deacons again.

Duke’s Practice Put On Hold
Practice was suspended on Monday for Duke’s football team, as players attended the funeral of a teammate’s father. James Moravchik, the father of senior offensive lineman Jim Moravchik, died last week of a heart attack. Coach Ted Roof flew into Wisconsin to be with the family for the funeral. Practice will start back up today to get ready for Saturday’s first game against an ACC opponent, as the team will play Marcus Vick and Virginia Tech.

North Carolina Lands Another QB
The football season hasn’t even started yet for the UNC Tarheels, but coach John Bunting has to be smiling about what’s in store for next year. The Tarheels got their 24th commitment this week, as QB Anthony Parker-Boyd agreed to play next season. Parker-Boyd, a high school senior in Pennsylvania, tossed 15 touchdowns and threw for 1815 yards last season, while also rushing for 950 more. During his high school career he’s returned kicks and served as a running back while also running the offense. Boyd said that family ties to the area and confidence in Heels coach John Bunting helped him make the decision. Despite the competition, the senior says he believes he can come in and win the starting job during training camp.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues last night, Winston Salem pulled out the victory in the Carolina League’s play-in game. They beat Salem Virginia 6-5 on Tuesday night, winning the southern division title for the second half of the season. Ryan Rodriguez gave up two runs over 5 2/3/ innings of work for his 13th win of the season, while Fabio Castro recorded his sixth save. Now the team advances into the playoffs tonight, with a best of three series against Kinston for the divisional championship. The first pitch is set for 7pm tonight in Winston.

Hurricanes Bring In Players For Tryout
In the NHL, the clock is ticking down til the first game and the Carolina Hurricanes are still busy assembling their roster. The team sent 21 players to the rookie tournament this week, to determine who they want to keep and who gets sent down to the minor leagues. The tournament will go on through Friday, with decisions made on who stays and goes early next week.

News & Sports For September 6th

Gas Shortage Not Affecting Wilkes Schools
With the cost of gas staying above three dollars a gallon, there have been questions raised about its’ effect on the school system. On Friday 3WC News talked with David Johnson from the school’s transportation office about the problem. Currently school buses here in Wilkes consume 1,000 gallons of fuel a day, meaning that the county is spending just over 3200 dollars daily. However according to Johnson, the problem isn’t as bad as it could have been, thanks to new policies installed over the last year. The school board eliminated backtracking, meaning that for the most part only one bus runs through a route. Granted it does mean that some students have a longer ride home, but several thousand dollars has been saved through the practice. In addition, the county has reduced the time buses idle, starting them up just as class is getting out among other things. Still with the higher gas prices and longer rides, Johnson says he expects to see fewer kids riding buses here in the county. And with gas supplies lower than normal, he says the school system will be limiting extra activities, such as field trips and other events to help save fuel. The school day however will remain as is, with no current plans to shorten it due to the gas supplies.

What To Do If You Are Searching For Loved Ones
While Hurricane Katrina didn’t hit Wilkes physically, many people here in the county have family and friends who disappeared in the storm’s wake. Now the Red Cross has put together a way for you to track down your missing loved ones. Called the Family Links Registry, it’s available either by phone or the internet. You can call 1-877-568-3317 or log on to www.redcross.org. Either way you can find out if your relative or friend has already been registered and learn where they’ve been evacuated to. The Red Cross can also help you get in touch with them. In addition, there are several other registries that you can sort through to get in touch with family members. The National Next of Kin Registry at www.nokr.org will match located evacuees with family members. Also katrinaconnections at www.katrinaconnections.com is available to be used.

Red Cross Looking For Volunteers
While many people here in the county have donated food, clothes and money the Red Cross still finds itself short in one category, that of volunteers. The Red Cross needs volunteers to go down and work in the medical field, also to help hand out supplies and deal with other issues. For anyone who’s interested in doing this, there will be training classes going on throughout the week at several locations. Here in Wilkes, you can call the local chapter for information at 838-4563.

Blood Drives Going On Today
We’ve all heard about the destruction throughout Mississippi and Louisiana and efforts are going on to send down supplies. But even if you can’t afford to donate food or clothes, you can help in another way. The Red Cross is holding two blood drives today, in order to send down south. The first is at the VFW Hall this afternoon from 2-6:30pm and across town, there will be another one at 6the Wilkesboro Civic Center from 2-6:30pm as well. Just remember before giving blood you must be at least 17 years old and weigh no less than 110 lbs.

License Check Leads To Drug Bust
A license check on Hwy 16 led to a drug bust for sheriff’s deputies over the weekend. As deputies approached the car, it had a strong smell of alcohol coming from inside. The driver was asked if deputies could search the car, which he agreed to. Once inside, they found two bags containing 1.1 grams of cocaine and another bag holding 3 grams of marijuana. 22-yr-old Latosha Ann Boyd was arrested and charged with drug possession.

Gas Thieves Respond To Shortage
As gas prices rose last week, it’s no surprise that some people in Wilkes found less than legal ways of filling up the tank. The Neighbor’s Store on Hwy 268 fell victim to gas thieves late last week. A person drove up in a white SUV, pumped 51$ worth of gas and then drove off without paying. A description of both the vehicle and its’ driver were turned over to sheriff’s deputies and that investigation is ongoing.

WCC Continues Small Business Series
With unemployment rising here in the county, it could be a good idea to start thinking about running your own business. Wilkes Community College is trying to help you get all the tools to start one, as they’re hosting a series of seminars over the next five weeks. The first was held last week and now coming up this Thursday, the second in the series will be held in the Student Resource Center. The topic of this week’s seminar deals with your ideas for a business, asking “Is My Business Concept Viable?” That will go on from 6-9pm in Room 1110 of the Student Resource Center. Even if you missed the first one, you can still join in the seminar. There is no cost but school officials ask that you call ahead and register at 838-6210.

Always Keep Your Doors Locked
It’s always a good idea to lock up before you leave. A North Wilkesboro man learned that the hard way last week, as he returned to find thieves had walked right into his house. The man had left the doors unlocked, only to return Thursday morning and find $800 worth of material stolen from inside, Included in the theft was a gas powered pressure washer and a craftsman air compressor. There is a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

Cattlemen’s Association To Meet Thursday
For any cattle owners here in the county, the Wilkes Cattlemen’s Association will be meeting this Thursday. The event will take place at 6:30pm at the Farm Bureau Building in North Wilkesboro. However if you are planning to attend, it’s asked that you call ahead to make reservations. The number to call is 651-7331.

Gun Stolen From Hays Home
A Hays man returned home over the weekend to find that someone had broke in and stolen a gun from inside. There was no sign of a break-in and nothing else stolen from the house, however there is a suspect in the case. A local man had come by a few days earlier, wanting to talk about the weapon. The joke appears to be on the thief however, as the gun was missing a pin that rotates the cylinder. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Thieves Go Shopping At Ronda Home
A family in Ronda came home over the weekend to find that thieves had paid them a visit. Despite there not being any sign of a break-in, a 23’ tv, DVD player, several videos and an air conditioning unit were taken from the home. There is a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

State News

State Testing City Water
Officials from the state health department are testing the drinking water in several North Carolina cities, after reports came in of possible lead contamination. Durham and three other cities, which weren’t named, are all being tested for lead in the drinking water. This comes after high levels of lead were found in the blood of two children under the age of six, both of whom became extremely sick. The testing will continue over the next two months, as officials try to determine where the lead came from.

U.S. 321 To Shut Down
People traveling through Lenoir on U.S. 321 will have to make alternate plans today, as portions of the road will be closed for repairs. The section of 321 leading to Blowing Rock from Caldwell County will be closed from noon til 2pm, between Kirby Mountain Road and Blackberry Road. The DOT has put up detour signs, leading from Lenoir on Hwy 18 through Wilkesboro, before turning off onto U.S. 421 towards Boone. Blasting is going on to help widen the highway.

North Carolina Designated As Primary Recovery State
With refugees continuing the pour out of Louisiana, North Carolina has been designated as the primary recovery state. Officials from FEMA made the announcement on Monday. What that means is any evacuees who can’t find friends or family will be taken to places here in the state. 500 people arrived in Charlotte Monday night and 400 more were taken to Raleigh. More are expected in Greensboro later this week.

Gas Prices Hit North Carolina Economy
The high gas prices hit North Carolina hard over the weekend, cutting down tourism during Labor Day. Holiday travelers at the beaches decreased by 50%, with most averaging just under 600 people for the entire weekend. Overall Triple A of the Carolinas estimated that tourism across the state would drop at least 15%. However good news is in the forecast for the rest of this month. The main pipelines that supply North Carolina are back online as of Friday and with repairs continuing, we could see lower prices within the next two weeks. As far as the gas supply itself, while some stations have run out across the state, refills should be coming later today.

Minor In Christianity Offered At UNC
For the first time in school history, UNC Chapel Hill will be offering a minor in Christianity. Students can start signing up for the curriculum, which is called Christianity and Culture, this coming spring. The idea came about thanks to Christian Smith, a sociology professor at the school. He did a four year study on the spiritual lives of teens, in which he discovered that most know nothing about Christianity, despite the fact they call themselves members of the faith. In a quiz handed out to students at the beginning of a New Testament class, over 50% usually fail.

Sports Headlines

Friday Night Football Results
Around the high school scene this weekend, it was West Wilkes beating North Wilkes 35-7. With the win, the Blackhawks improve to 2-1, their best record since 2003, while the Vikings fall to 0-3. For the Blackhawks, they go on to face Bishop McGuiness at home this week, while we’ll be making our way out to North Wilkes, as they host Alleghany. In our 3WC broadcast Friday night, it was the East Wilkes Cardinals beating Wilkes Central 42-0, in a game highlighted by penalties and missed opportunities. The Eagles now fall to 0-3, while the Cardinals move on up to 2-1. This week Wilkes Central goes on the road against Watauga, while East will host East Surry.

UNC Chapel Hill News & Notes
In college basketball, Mike Copeland Jr. officially became the latest member of the UNC Tarheels this week, after being approved by the university’s admissions office. Copeland becomes the fifth member of this year’s recruiting class, a 6-7 235 lb. forward who will have a chance to start if he performs well in the coming weeks of practice. The class of new Tarheels includes 6-9 Tyler Hansbrough, 6-5 Marcus Ginyard, 6-5 Danny Green and 6-3 guard Bobby Frasor.

UNC Wins Basketball Exhibition
The 2006 season started off on the right foot for Coach Roy Williams and the Tarheels. The team went on the road over the Labor Day weekend, flying in to take on a club team in the Bahamas. The Heels won 106-85 on Sunday, thanks in part to 27 points from Reyshawn Terry. Earlier on Saturday, the Heels won their first game in the islands 100-66 over the Real Deal Shockers, a team from a local league. The news wasn’t all good for the team however, as they committed 38 turnovers during Saturday’s game.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues last night, it was Winston Salem falling to Potomac 8-5. Warthogs’ starter Wes Whisler was credited with the loss after giving up six runs in five innings of work. With the loss, Winston falls into a tie for first place with the Salem Virginia team. A one game playoff has been set up for later tonight at 7pm, to be held in Virginia.

In Wake Of Race Gordon Falls
After Kyle Busch’s first win as a NASCAR driver, teams are gearing up for the last race before the Chase for the Cup. The 20-yr-old Busch took the checkered flag in Sunday’s Sony HD 500 while Rusty Wallace clinched the eighth playoff spot. Now that leaves five drivers fighting over two spots. Jeff Gordon fell out of the tenth spot, losing it to Matt Kenseth as he finished 21st. Now Gordon, Ryan Newman, Jamie McMurray, Elliot Sadlier and Kenseth are all fighting for the final two spots as the race heads to Richmond this Saturday.

News & Sports For September 2nd

Gas Shortage Scare
A gas shutdown in the area turned out to be a hoax. Several people have called the 3WC Studios over the past 24 hrs, asking about a supposed gas cut off that was to take place at 3pm Thursday afternoon. What got this started is partially due to a nationwide protest effort that is asking people not to buy gas over the Labor Day weekend. The protesters are asking that for either one day or the entire weekend, people abstain from buying gas. According to Brandon Tabor, creator of the Slow Pump Movement, this is supposed to be a way to cut down on the oil companies’ profits. That movement, combined with Gov. Easley’s request for citizens to conserve gas, is what helped to create the panic. While supplies are running low here in the area, several companies confirmed that there isn’t going to be a shutdown and as long as gas keeps coming in, they’ll keep selling it. You could experience long lines at the pump, but for the most part that’s the extent of the problem. If however you believe that one of the stations in your area is trying to gouge you with high prices, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx has set up a place on her website to report it. You can go to www.foxx.house.gov and look on the right side of the page. Coming up in state news we’ll have more about Easley’s remarks and how they might affect your Labor Day plans.

Hold On To Your Checkbook
A Wilkesboro man learned this week why it’s a good idea to hold on to your checkbook. He accessed his bank account, only to find that checks had been written in his name, which he had never cashed. It turns out that the man’s ex-wife had gotten his checkbook somehow and had gone on a spending spree. It’s not clear exactly how much was taken from the account, as there are several more checks pending. That investigation is ongoing.

Voter Registration Deadline Today
Time’s almost up if you haven’t registered yet to vote this year. At 5pm today, voter registration for the North Wilkesboro Primary will be over. If by that afternoon you aren’t registered to vote, then you won’t be able to cast a ballot. The same goes for the November elections. All registrations have to be turned in to the Board of Elections by 5pm. However if high gas prices make it impossible to get to town, you can mail in your registration with a postmark of today’s date.

Signs Stolen From Taco Bell
The Taco Bell in Wilkesboro fell victim to thieves this week. However the suspects didn’t want food or money, instead all they ran off with was a sign in the window. Two advertising signs, that had been put up on the inside of the dining room were taken by customers as they left the restaurant. Witnesses provided identification of the suspects and that information was turned over to police. The investigation is ongoing.

Local Churches Pitching In To Help Relief Effort
With the death toll rising and supplies desperately needed, several churches here in Wilkes are lending a hand to the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Oak Grove Baptist Church, on the Rock Quarry Road in North Wilkesboro is leaving on Friday to take some supplies down to Mississippi. Several members of the church family are in one of the towns affected by Katrina and Oak Grove is going down to bring them back. In addition they’re taking supplies to give out to anybody who needs them. That includes canned goods, clothes, deodorant and any other emergency supplies you want to donate. They’re leaving tomorrow morning around lunchtime, but will be taking donations at the church until 9pm tonight at the Fellowship Hall and then early tomorrow morning. Celebration Church is also putting together a trailer full of items to take down. They leave early tomorrow morning, to head down. For the rest of the night, they’ll also have a trailer set up at the church, located in what used to be the old Union School. All donations are welcome, but the church is mostly looking for clothes, food and healthcare items such as deodorant and bandaids to take down. And as we get information in about other donation drives, we’ll be sure and let you know.

Wreck Sends Two People To Hospital
A wreck earlier this week on the Brushy Mountain Road sent two people to the hospital. Dr. Mary Small was traveling down Brushy Mountain Road when she lost control of her car. The vehicle ran off the road and she jerked the wheel, bringing it back onto the highway. The car then crossed the center line and went directly into the path of a man coming from the other direction. Both cars were totaled in the crash and both drivers had to be taken to Wilkes Regional for treatment. An update on their condition was not available at this time.

WCC To Host Financial Class For Adults
Sometimes it can be a pain collecting on a debt. Regardless if it’s something owed by a neighbor or payment charged to your business. Coming up later this month, Wilkes Community College is holding a seminar, to help people understand what their legal rights are in such a situation. Such as what are your options for collecting a bad debt? What to do when a debtor skips town? The meeting is free, however you must register ahead of time to get in. To sign up, you can call WCC at 838-6210. That will take place on September 29th, sponsored by the Small Business Center of the college.

Drugs Found After Traffic Stop
A traffic stop in Wilkesboro this week led to an arrest for drug possession. Officers were on patrol when they observed a car driving past, a vehicle whose driver was known not to have a license. They pulled over the woman, who confirmed that her license had expired. Officers asked if they could search the car and she agreed. However upon the search they found a set of scales, marijuana leaves and some baggies, in addition to $780 in cash. 18-yr-old Savannah Lynn Webb was arrested and charged with drug possession with intent to sell, not having a license and possession of drug paraphernalia. Later after being searched at the intake center, 34 grams of marijuana was found on her person.

State News

Easley Urges Conservation
Gov. Easley held an emergency press conference on Wednesday, asking people to conserve gas during the Labor Day weekend. His request comes due to the fact that North Carolina is one of nine states that receive most of their fuel supplies from the Gulf Coast, a section hard hit by Hurricane Katrina. 90% of North Carolina’s gas comes from this region. With most of those oil refineries off line until repairs can be made, only 30% of the normal gas supply is making its’ way into North Carolina. Gov. Easley said that North Carolina isn’t out of gas, but supplies are running low, so he urged people if possible to stay in this weekend and save gas for important trips. He also asked that people cancel their Labor Day plans and stay home when possible, to help the state get through the weekend. By next week, the Department of Energy plans to have the gas supply up to 50%, which will alleviate some of the concerns. Triple A of the Carolinas says that the problem won’t be gas running out but rather people panicking.

More Oil Headed To NC
Good news however for North Carolina drivers, as more gas will be on the way this weekend. Colonial Pipeline has confirmed that they’ve managed to restart their main supply lines, which will start pumping at about 35% of normal today. By the end of the weekend company officials hope to have that number up to 60% but say that it will take some time to bring things back up to normal.

“Sin” Taxes Begin Today
Expect another hit to your wallet this weekend, as the so-called “sin” taxes take effect. As of Thursday morning, a pack of cigarettes costs 25 cents more than normal, as the tax rose to 30 cents. Meanwhile the cost of a carton also rose to $3 more than usual. Opponents of smoking say that the increase is a good thing, as they hope it will cause people to quit smoking. In addition higher taxes on candy, alcohol, satellite and cable television will all take hold.

Jobs Headed To Wilmington
There’s a light at the end of the tunnel for people in Wilmington, as more jobs are headed into the area. General Electric announced plans on Thursday to expand its’ jet engine and nuclear power companies to include new plants in Wilmington. The move is expected to generate 200 jobs in the area over the next five years. $3.4 million in incentives was handed out by the state to attract the business, with most of that coming from the Job Development Investment Grant, a program that gives money out to businesses that help generate new jobs. The bad news is that 50 of those new jobs will be transfers from other positions in Tennessee and California.

Cold Medicine Now Harder To Come By
For anyone who has sinus problems or fights cold symptoms, North Carolina could be making it harder to do so. The state House passed a bill yesterday that would limit access to medicine that contains pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that’s found in items like Sudafed. The drug is also a major ingredient in creating methamphetamines. Once this bill becomes law, any tablet form medicine that contains the drug would be available only as a prescription. All gel caps and medicine for children would originally be left on shelves, but the state reserves the right in this bill to restrict those to prescription at a later date. And for those left on the shelves, you can only buy three packages each month. If Gov. Easley signs the bill into law, which he hasn’t indicated one way or the other, it would take effect January 15th. Attorney General Roy Cooper said the bill was an important step in getting meth off the streets. Once the law takes effect you will only be able to buy the medicine by showing

Lawn Mower Races Offending Neighbors
An Alleghany man is having to go to court in order to keep racing. Neighbors of Ronnie Woodie was taking the man to court because they feel the lawn mower races that he holds on his property “doesn’t fit” with the surrounding area. Some of Woodie’s 50 neighbors have also accused him of trying to intimidate them by putting up signs in his yard and firing guns for no reason. For the last four months, Woodie has held lawn mower races in his backyard, with the proceeds going to benefit local organizations. So far, he’s donated $1000 to the Glade Creek Fire Department and $700 to the local elementary school. Woodie said that he and the other families who take part are just wanting to have a good time while helping out the community at the same time. A court date has yet to be announced.

Sports Headlines

High School Sports
Around the high school scene last night, it was West Wilkes beating North 20-0 in JV football. Also Wilkes Central beat North 9-0 in tennis. In jv volleyball North beat Wilkes Central 2 games to none and in the varsity match it was North winning 3 games to none. If high gas prices have put a damper on your Friday plans you can tune in tonight and join the 3WC Sports Team as we’ll be out at Wes Steele Stadium for our Football Friday Night broadcast. Wilkes Central will play host to East Wilkes in a battle of the birds. The Cardinals come in with a record of 1-1, while the Eagles look to rebound from an 0-2 start. Ken Byrd and Keith Briand will be on hand to bring you the play by play, while Brian Carlton will be back at the station, giving you updates on all the other games going on in the area. Kickoff is set for 7:30 with the pregame show going on the air at 7:15. All this on your home for local sports, 1240 3WC.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues, it was Winston Salem beating Kinston 5-1. Warthogs starter Gio Gonzalez picked up the win after going seven innings and allowing only one run. The Warthogs are also working with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina to collect supplies to send down to the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. For anyone heading out to tonight’s game, the team is asking that you bring drinking water, cleaning supplies, canned goods or flashlights and batteries. They’ll be putting all of this together to send with the latest shipment from the Second Harvest Food Bank this weekend.

Panthers Final Preseason Game
The Carolina Panthers let most of their starters have the day off on Thursday, so they could take a look at those players left on the bubble. It showed in the final score, as they lost to Pittsburgh 21-17. Stefan Lefors spent most of the night at quarterback for the Panthers, completing 7 of 11 passes for 102 yards and a touchdown. Drew Carter meanwhile caught 7 passes for 107 yards in the loss. Next week the Panthers will open the regular season at home against the New Orleans Saints.

Erin Cocker To Make Busch Debut
NASCAR’s Busch Series is going to get another addition coming next week. Erin Crocker, the 24-yr-old woman who races for Evernham Motorsports, is expected to make her debut when the series heads to Richmond Virginia on the 9th. Crocker has been racing in the Automobile Racing Club of America series, finishing second in one race and coming in third two other times. Depending on how she performs, company officials said she could make an appearance on the Nextel Cup circuit next season.

News & Sports For September 1st

Big Climb In Local Unemployment
Bad news for Wilkes County’s economy, as the local unemployment numbers were released for July. During the month, unemployment here in Wilkes soared to 6.6%, up from 6% in June and continuing a climb started back in May, when the rate was at 5.6%. Currently here in the county there are 33,197 people listed as being part of the workforce. Out of that number, 30,998 are employed while 2199 are still hunting for a job.

Hurricane Relief Being Organized
As the death toll continues to climb in Louisiana and Mississippi, people are working to make sure food, water and other needs are provided for the survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Here in Wilkes there two operations currently going on, the first organized by the Red Cross. They’re taking up money donations, to help buy supplies for those still living. You can drop a donation of any amount to the local Red Cross office, located on 104 West Street here in Wilkesboro. Or you can also mail a donation in to American Red Cross, Wilkes-Alleghany Counties Chapter 104 West Street Wilkesboro NC 28697-2433. If you do mail it however please make sure you label it as a donation to the hurricane relief effort. The other operation is being run by the United Way, which has set up a Hurricane Katrina Response Fund, not just for the present time but also for the long term recovery needs. This is also just accepting monetary donations. You can drop off donations to the United Way, but just make sure that you explain that it’s for the hurricane relief fund. As we get the details regarding other operations here in Wilkes, we’ll be sure and let you know.

Focus On Veterans
They are called America’s greatest generation. The veterans of World War II gave all they had to protect this country, leaving behind family and friends to fight across the ocean. Now members of the Wilkes VFW Hall want to honor our local vets by taking them on a free trip to the World War II Memorial. Rex Eldrith will be my guest today for Focus on the Foothills, as we’ll be talking about the upcoming trip, what’s involved and how anyone can take part. That’s right after the midday stock report at 1:05pm.

Got In To Have A Look Around
A Millers Creek man called Wilkesboro police this week, after discovering that his car had been vandalized. The driver side door had been damaged, with the actual door lock hanging outside of the vehicle. Estimated damages were placed at $150, however nothing was stolen or broken inside the vehicle. Security cameras at the store where this happened gave police a suspect in the case and the investigation is ongoing.

Primary Elections One Month Away
On September 27th, Wilkes County voters will head back to the polls and select a candidate in two primary elections. In North Wilkesboro, the race is for the Republican nomination for mayor, between incumbent Steve Foster and his challenger Gerald Lankford. Lankford was Foster’s opponent in the last election as well. Whoever wins will then move on to face George G. Church in November. North Wilkesboro is also holding a primary for town commissioner. Two people out of the five running can be selected to represent the Democratic ticket in this year’s election. Those five are Billy Joe “Crow” Church, Faye Cox, Debbie F. Ferguson, Robert L. Johnson and Eric Williams. Faye Cox and Robert Johnson are the incumbents, each running for re-election.

WCC To Hold Start Up Business Classes
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own a business? Maybe you have questions about what’s involved, what paperwork you have to fill out and what hoops you have to jump through. Starting tonight, Wilkes Community College is offering a series of seminars focusing on developing small businesses. The first takes place tonight, from 6-9pm in Room 1110 of the Student Resource Center. There is no cost, but college officials ask that you call ahead to pre-register. The number to call is 838-6210.

State News

Amber Alert Cancelled As Girl Discovered
Good news today as the Amber Alert has been called off for 12-yr-old Jodie Collie. She was found shortly after 9pm Tuesday night, at a bus station in Des Moines Iowa, unharmed and in good health. There was no sign of the man she had left with, 27-yr-old Phillip Daniel Denkler. Collie had called her grandfather, who then got in touch with the FBI on Tuesday, to go pick her up. She said that she had been dropped off at the bus station by Denkler and other then being shaken up, appeared to be physically and mentally ok. Police later arrested Philip Denkler, charging him with felony child abduction and violating parole.

Burlington Man Faces More Charges
Earlier this week 3WC told you about David Lee Martin Jr., a 22 yr-old man who was facing 46 different charges for crimes he committee over the last four months. The warrants however continue piling up for the man, as Martin is now wanted for an additional 47 charges of theft in the Burlington area, bringing the grand total to 93. He’s now facing charges of grand theft auto, breaking into a coin machine and taking part in a dogfighting ring, among other things. Martin is currently being held in Alamance County under what’s now an $180,000 bond.

Former Duke Star Raising Money
Former Duke point guard Chris Duhon has seen his hometown devastated over the last few days, as Hurricane Katrina poured over Slidell Louisiana. His childhood home was destroyed and several friends are now homeless as well. To help take care of the need, Duhon has created the Chris Duhon Hurricane Relief Fund, working in connection FEMA to distribute any donated clothing, food and other supplies to the 25,000 people left in Slidell. Several family and friends are staying with the point guard at his house in Chicago, as he gets set to enter his second season in the NBA. Anyone wanting to donate to the Chris Duhon Fund, can send supplies to the Stand Tall Foundation c/o Chris Duhon 1151 North State Street Box 249 Chicago IL 60610.

Bill Becomes Law Without A Vote
A mistake made by the State Senate last week allowed a bill to go into law without being voted on. The proposal, which dealt with new restrictions on auctioneer licensing, appeared to have made it through the Senate and was given to Gov. Easley to sign. He did so earlier this week and the bill became law. However now it seems that bill never made it past the House. The House had approved it and sent it earlier this month to the Senate for consideration. Due to a clerical error, the paperwork stated that it had in fact passed and was ready to be signed. The solution is almost as confusing as the problem itself. In order to bring the bill to the Senate, first it has to be challenged and then repealed by the General Assembly. Otherwise it’ll stay as part of state law.

Gas Prices Hit Government Officials
Officials in Buncombe County announced that travel is being limited due to shrinking gas supplies. Throughout Buncombe, only essential services such as EMS and law enforcement will be allowed to continue using county funds due to higher prices and fear of a possible shortage. Buses, social service operations and other county jobs may have to find alternative ways of getting to work, as cars provided to them could be taken away. County officials are also asking residents not to make any unnecessary trips, in order to help conserve gas. This marks the latest incident stemming from the damage left behind due to Hurricane Katrina.

New Jobs Coming To Thomasville
Good news for people in Thomasville, as more jobs are headed to the area. Imaflex Inc, a Canadian plastics company, will be bringing 50 new jobs with it when it opens up later this year. The company has bought the Tyco Plastics building and after some renovations this fall, will be open for business. The move comes after $125,000 was given as a grant from Gov. Easley’s One North Carolina Fund, to help with moving expenses. Average wages at the plant will be $550 a week and applications are currently being taken. You can send one in at the Employment Security Commission.

Sports Headlines

Bobcats Lock Up Another Player
Turning toward the basketball court, the Charlotte Bobcats added another piece to the puzzle on Wednesday, signing shooting guard Matt Carroll. Carroll was picked up by the Bobcats last year from the developmental league and earned rave reviews for his defense, free throw shooting and scrappy style of play. With his signing, the team now has 12 players under contract, with camp just a few weeks away. Negotiations are still going on with small forward Gerald Wallace.

Panthers Make SI Cover
For the last few years, making the cover of Sports Illustrated has been a good sign for NFL teams on the road to the Super Bowl. Now the Carolina Panthers hope that tradition continues. The Panthers were selected as this year’s pick by SI to win the Super Bowl, as they predict it’ll be Carolina over Indianapolis by a score of 31-27. There is some history on their side in this, as SI correctly predicted that the Patriots would walk away with the trophy last season. Now, coming off a 7-9 year, the Panthers hope to rebound and prove that their 2003 appearance in the big game wasn’t a fluke.

Panthers News & Notes
In other Panther news, the team released two more players to drop down to 76. Long snapper Adam Johnson and rookie safety Ben Emmanuel were released, while receiver Micah Ross was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring pull. This Saturday another round of cuts will hit, as NFL rosters have to be trimmed down to 53 players. That being the case, today’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers will make or break the chance of some players to be on the team. Coach Fox said on Wednesday that most of the starters will sit out the game, while those not guaranteed a roster spo t will have most of the attention.

Countdown Is On
In NASCAR, time is ticking down for those drivers still in the hunt for the last three playoff spots. Six drivers are in the running, with the other seven spots already locked up. Carl Edwards, Ryan Newman and Jeff Gordon are currently in those last three spots, but Matt Kenseth, Elliot Sadler and Jamie McMurray are knocking on the door. With two races left before the Chase for the Cup starts, teams have to put in a solid performance this week or see their championship hopes crumble. This Sunday teams head up to California Speedway for the Sony HD 500.

News & Sports For August 31st

Woodward School Has New Owner
On Monday night, the Wilkes County School Board met and went over several items on the agenda. The board officially severed their ties with the old Woodward Middle School property, accepting a bid from the Brushy Mountain Baptist Association to buy it. Lawson Horton from the Association says that the Association has several plans for the building. Aside from bringing in their own offices, the Association is putting together plans for a school, also hoping to move in their Upwards basketball program and several other groups. The Association is talking with Habitat for Humanity and Samaritan's Kitchen among others, who want to be part of the new facility.

License Check Leads To Arrest
Sheriff’s deputies arrested a man near Edgewood Road this week after nearly being hit by his vehicle. The deputies were performing a license check when a vehicle came up and refused to stop. The driver then aimed the car at one of them, who was able to barely move out of the way in time, hitting the driver’s side door with his flashlight. Deputies then pursued the man on NC 115 in what became a high speed chase, with speeds reaching above 80 mph. The man went through the parking lots of two different stores before deputies lost him. However they had been able to get the man’s license plate number and tracked him down at home. 39-yr-old Clyde Grady Nickelson Jr. was arrested and charged with DWI, assault with a deadly weapon and fleeing to avoid arrest.

Blood Drive Later Today
Wilkes County’s blood supply is in a critical stage as we head into September. All blood types are in critical levels, with Type O & Type B especially needed. This could cause serious problems as we move on through hurricane season. Even though Katrina passed us by, we still have several months left in the season, without enough blood to last through a major storm. To solve that problem, the Red Cross is asking people to come out and give today during their blood drive at Community Alternatives. It starts at 10am this morning and runs until 2:30 this afternoon. Just remember before giving, you must be at least 17 years old and weigh no less than 110 lbs. If you want some more information before heading out, you can call the Red Cross at 838-4563.

Just Wanted To Look Around
A North Wilkesboro woman got off work this week to find that someone had been inside her vehicle. The lock had been torn off her car’s trunk, but nothing was missing and no other damage was done to the vehicle. An estimated $400 worth of damage was done in the incident. There are several suspects in the case.

Voter Registration Deadline This Friday
Time’s almost up if you haven’t registered yet to vote this year. At 5pm Friday, voter registration for the North Wilkesboro Primary will be over. If by that afternoon you aren’t registered to vote, then you won’t be able to cast a ballot. The same goes for the November elections. All registrations have to be turned in to the Board of Elections by 5pm or if you’re out of town, you can mail it in with a postmark of this Friday’s date. Tomorrow on the 3WC News we’ll take a look at the upcoming primaries in the area.

Jewelry Stolen From Ronda Home
Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a Ronda woman’s home this week, after thieves took off with several thousand dollars worth of merchandise. Despite all the items missing, there was no sign of a break-in and no damage done to any part of the property. Included in the theft was a $600 diamond ring, a $500 gold rope necklace and several other items. There are suspects in the case however and the investigation is ongoing.

Gas Savers Part Three
With gas prices continuing to go up, it’s more important than ever to conserve fuel. Today in the third part of our gas savers series, we take a look at some other ways to save you time and money at the pump. First of all, keep your engine in tune. That may seem like a small thing, but an out of tune engine can lower your gas mileage by about 4%. Also be on the lookout for worn out sparkplugs. They can drop your car’s gas mileage by 30%. Be sure and replace the car’s air filter when needed. A clogged filter can cost you an additional 15 cents a gallon. Finally make sure to check your tires. Underinflated tires wear down quick, offering more resistance and forcing your engine to work harder. The gas mileage on underinflated tires can drop by 15% or more in some cases. It may seem like a long list of things to do, but it’ll be worth it when you can spend more time away from the pump.

Focus On Veterans
They are called America’s greatest generation. The veterans of World War II gave all they had to protect this country, leaving behind family and friends to fight across the ocean. Now members of the Wilkes VFW Hall want to honor our local vets by taking them on a free trip to the World War II Memorial. Rex Eldrith from the VFW Hall will be my guest tomorrow for Focus on the Foothills, as we’ll be talking about the upcoming trip, what’s involved and how anyone can take part. That’s tomorrow after the midday stock report at 1:05pm.

State News

North Carolina Has A Lottery
North Carolina is no longer the only state without a lottery. Tuesday afternoon, the Senate held a special session and voted on the measure, passing it by a vote of 25-24. The Senate was deadlocked, with the absence of two members, John Garwood of Wilkes, who’s recovering from illness and Harry Brown of Jacksonville, who decided to miss the session to start his honeymoon. With their absence, Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue exercised her executive powers and cast the deciding vote. The bill earlier passed in the House so now it goes to Gov. Easley for his signature and will be made law.

Fugitive Found At UNCC
After over a week of searching, a North Carolina fugitive is behind bars. Robert Windsor stands accused of kidnapping then murdering his girlfriend, before leaving her body in the trunk of her car. He later abandoned the vehicle on I-77 and disappeared. Over the weekend however, reports came in that he had been sighted in University City, hanging around the UNC Charlotte campus. Campus police found the man on Monday, walking near the main entrance to the school. He was arrested and quickly brought back to Catawba County. It’s still unknown why he went to UNC Charlotte, as he had no ties to the school.

North Carolina Students Get Boost In SATS
Good news for North Carolina students, as the average SAT score here in the state has improved over the last year. According to figures released on Tuesday by the College Board, the class of 2005 improved by four points over the year before. Students here in the state averaged a score of 511 on the math section, that’s up from 507 in 2004. However the verbal test scores stayed the same, with students averaging 499. Virtually every demographic group increased their scores with the exception of Hispanic students. Despite the progress, North Carolina still lags behind the national average, which rose also this year to 520 in math and 508 on the verbal.

Bus Shooting Under Investigation
Officials in Durham are investigating a shooting today, after someone fired on an occupied Transit bus. The incident happened Monday afternoon as the bus was traveling down Holloway Street. Witnesses at the scene described a man standing in the yard of a nearby house, pulling out his gun and opening fire. Three bullets hit the bus windows, but no one was injured. It’s believed at this time the bus wasn’t the target, but rather a vehicle that had passed in front of it. Officials are continuing the investigation at this hour.

Man Who Died Not Criminal
After investigating further, it appears an innocent man died during a police chase in Belmont. Over the weekend, police at a DWI checkpoint saw a vehicle do a U-turn, let out a woman and then take off down the road. The woman told police she had been kidnapped and later raped, a story that would turn out to be false. Police pursued the driver, who eventually lost control of the vehicle and crashed, later dying from his injuries. Now the woman has admitted that she made up the whole story, because she was scared of being arrested. The man had let her out and turned around because he’d been drinking and didn’t want to be caught.

Sports Headlines

Volleyball Scores From Tuesday Night
Around the high school scene, some volleyball action on your Tuesday night. It was Forbush beating North Wilkes in JV action 2 games to nothing. In both games Forbush took the win 25-20. In varsity action, Forbush also pulled out a clean sweep 3 games to nothing against North Wilkes.

Friday Night Football
When the wind and rain expected to depart by Thursday, all the local high schools will be back in action this week. Right here on 3WC, we’ll be back out at Wes Steele Stadium for a game between Wilkes Central and East Wilkes. The Cardinals come in off a win against North at 1-1, while coach Jeremy Funderburk and the Eagles look to rebound from an 0-2 loss. Ken Byrd and Keith Briand will be on hand to bring you the play by play, while Brian Carlton will be back at the station, giving you updates on all the other games going on in the area. Kickoff is set for 7:30 with the pregame show going on the air at 7:15. All this on your home for local sports, 1240 3WC.

Blackman Starts For State
With a few days before their first game of the season, NC State finally named a starting running back. Sophomore Darrell Blackman will get the start, beating out fellow sophomore Bobby Washington, junior Reggie Davis and freshman Toney Baker, Andre Brown and Jamelle Eugene. The coaching staff said that Blackman got the nod due to the fact he can catch, block and also is a talented runner, a triple threat that none of the others could match.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues, it was Winston Salem falling to Kinston 10-5. Warthogs starter Lance Broadway was roughed up for eight runs in four innings of work. Robert Valido and Leo Daigle led the Warthogs with three hits each.

Former Tarheel To Get Start
A former UNC Tarheel will get his chance to make an impact in the NFL on Opening Day. Pittsburgh Steelers running back Willie Parker, who was signed as a rookie free agent by the team, will replace Jerome Bettis in the starting lineup. Bettis injured his right calf muscle and so Parker, who graduated two years ago from UNC, will step in and take his place. The 5-10 209 lb. Parker will line up behind the tackles for Pittsburgh’s game September 11th against Tennessee.

NASCAR Facing Gas Problems
NASCAR officials are facing a problem that can’t be fixed with testing or a suspension. Rising gas prices are causing car owners to consider several options, to avoid losing profits. Some of the teams who have been considering adding a third driver will most likely put that off for another season. In addition, teams are worried that the high prices will keep fans away not just during the Chase For The Cup, but also into next year.

News & Sports For August 30th

Update On Katrina
As the winds die down from Hurricane Katrina and it’s downgraded to a tropical storm, officials in North Carolina continue to keep an eye on the situation. Here in Wilkes, Duke Power issued a statement warning people to be careful around creeks, rivers and other bodies of water. Western North Carolina may be out of the storm’s path, but we can expect several inches of rain and possibly some flooding along with it. Several Duke Power personnel are on standby in case we do get severe weather and they ask that if you are having problems with the electricity, to call when it happens instead of waiting til later. In addition, they ask that anyone who sees a downed power line or some other wire, don’t come near it. You can however call 1-800-POWERON for more information or if you have questions.

Gas Thieves Hit Two More Wilkes Businesses
As prices go up at the pump, it’s no surprise that some people are refusing to pay. Gas thieves hit two more businesses in Wilkes County, first at the Millers Creek Market and then at the Grocery Bag. At the Millers Creek Market, a man drove up to the pump, put in $12 worth of gas and then took off down the road without paying. Employees inside the store were able to get his car’s license plate however and also provided deputies with a description of the vehicle. Then another man pulled up to the Grocery Bag #2 in Traphill, pumping $10 worth of gas before driving off. A description of that vehicle was also turned in and the investigation in both cases is ongoing.

Gas Savers Part Two: Keeping Your Cool
Have you ever got in your car and started it up, only to notice that the gas needle had dropped since you had turned it off? As the August rays beat down on your car, they also suck up gas from inside. In part two of our 3WC Gas Savers series, we’re explaining some more ways to help save money at the pump. First try and park your car in the shade. Parking in sunlight will help your car’s gas evaporate quicker on a hot day. While storing it in the shade won’t solve the problem, it will make the evaporation process go a lot slower, saving at least part of your gas for the ride home. Also make sure your gas cap is tight. Each year, an estimated 147 million gallons of gas are lost due to misplaced or loose gas caps. Air conditioning might seem like a vacuum, draining your gas dry and your wallet too. But studies have shown that while driving on the highway, most cars are actually more efficient when the air conditioning is on, as long as you don’t go too far. Cranking it on full blast won’t get things cool any faster, but what it will do is put a drain on both your battery and gas. When you have an open window, it produces more resistance for your car to fight against, meaning that the engine has to work harder to keep up to speed and that translates into more gas being burned. Coming up tomorrow in part three of our series, we’ll tell you how the right tire can keep you away from the pump for a few more days.

Police Searching For Hit & Run Driver
A North Wilkesboro woman was driving down 421 earlier this week when suddenly a car slammed into her. The vehicle had pulled out of a side street, not paying attention to traffic and totaling both cars in the process. That second driver fled the scene on foot before anyone arrived and apparently with good reason. The car had been stolen a few hours earlier from its’ owner. Estimated damages were placed at $8000 and no one was injured. Wilkesboro police are continuing the investigation.

WCC To Hold Start Up Business Classes
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own a business? Maybe you have questions about what’s involved, what paperwork you have to fill out and what hoops you have to jump through. Starting this Thursday, Wilkes Community College is offering a series of seminars focusing on developing small businesses. The first takes place this Thursday, from 6-9pm in Room 1110 of the Student Resource Center. There is no cost, but college officials ask that you call ahead to pre-register. The number to call is 838-6210.

BROC Holding Educational Event Today
Do you have questions about the BROC operation? What exactly is their senior meal plan? How can I sign up for programs? What are the requirements? Coming up later today, members of the Maple Springs Senior Citizens group will be out at Bojangles on Curtis Bridge Road from 11am til 2pm. They’ll be discussing the BROC agency, handing out literature, talking about the different programs and giving out door prizes. Portions of Bojangles’ sales today will go directly to BROC.

High School Students Buckle Up Or Lose It
Here in Wilkes County and across the state, a new type of program is being offered to help keep the roads safe. R U Buckled is a new initiative in 53 of the state’s high schools, including all four in Wilkes County. Under the new plan, students have to wear seat belts at all times. If they’re caught on campus without one on, their parking privileges will be revoked and they’ll have to get a ride for any school activities for the rest of the year. This was put into practice due to the fact that 63% of all 16-to-20 yr olds who were killed in traffic accidents weren’t wearing seat belts.

Mailbox Vandals Hit Traphill Home
Mailbox vandals hit another home in the Traphill area this week. On Sunday, a local man returned home to find his mailbox had been trashed, marking yet another vandalism case in the area. None of the neighbors could recall hearing or seeing anyone come around the property, however estimated damages were placed at around $30. That investigation is ongoing.

State News

Easley Opens North Carolina Up To Refugees
With so many left homeless at least temporarily because of the storm, Gov. Mike Easley has opened North Carolina up as a safe haven. Three National Guard armories across the western part of the state have been opened for use as shelters. Over ten thousand people fled their homes in the face of the hurricane and any of those without a place to go can take shelter in the armories. There is one in Charlotte, right off I-77 on West Boulevard, another in Gastonia on Robinwood Road and finally one in Asheville on Shelborne Road. Two National Guard troops have been assigned to each shelter, to assist the full time staff on scene.

Alamance Man Arrested After Four Month Operation
22-yr-old David Lee Martin Jr. was arrested this week by Alamance County authorities for stealing. When all was said and done, they had charged him with 46 different crimes after what police say has been a four month crime wave. Over the last four months Martin stole everything from a Frito Lay truck to a piece of candy from a store. He’s currently being held in Alamance under $100,000 bond after being arrested at the scene of his latest crime.

Prisoner Gets Another Chance At Freedom
Clifton Spencer has been sitting in jail for years, serving time for a murder he claims he didn’t commit. IN 1990, someone killed a waitress in Manteo and after a brief investigation, Clifton was arrested and charged with the crime. He pled no contest at the time, saying that he was pressured to do so by his lawyer, who told him there was no way he’d get a fair trial. Now an old washcloth found at the scene might prove his innocence. The cloth was used by the killer to clean up after he disposed of the victim, leaving DNA traces behind. Those traces have a man’s DNA on them, but not that of Clifton Spencer. With no other evidence linking him to the scene, Spencer will get another trial possibly by the end of this year and could be a free man in 2006. It’s unknown why he was pressured by the lawyer, as the plea of no contest was about the only thing held up as evidence.

Natural Gas Prices Set To Climb
If you think the price at the pump is bad, wait til this winter. Piedmont Natural Gas announced this week that it plans to raise rates by 14%. That means overall, the cost to heat your home could climb by as much as $200 and that’s if the winter season is a normal one. A bad winter could mean upwards of $300 extra for natural gas, leading some people to cancel their gas service and break out the axe to solve the problem the cheap way.

Durham Bulls Do Their Part For Storm Victims
With people across the country struggling to do their part to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, one North Carolina baseball team is giving up their paychecks. The Durham Bulls announced before last night’s game that all proceeds from the event will be donated to disaster relief efforts. In addition, all of the team’s food supplies left over from this homestand will be donated as well. Monday was the last game of the season for the team and officials said this was the quickest and best way they could think of to help.

Sports Headlines

Maybin Still Won’t Sign
Around the minor leagues, the cousin of former Tarheel Rashad McCants still finds himself without a team. Cameron Maybin, who was drafted as the 10th pick by the Detroit Tigers this year, continues to hold out for a better deal. Maybin, who graduated this past year from Roberson High, wants a signing bonus of about one million more than the Tigers are willing to pay. He’s already lost the chance of playing this season and will likely have to wait until spring training if he does sign, as the fall league is coming up quick. If negotiations don’t go the way he hopes, Maybin has also said he’s open to the possibility of going to a community college and then re-entering the draft next year, in hopes that some team will give him the money he wants.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues, Winston Salem moved back into first place after beating Salem 6-0 Monday night. The Warthogs got six shutout innings from starter Ray Liotta, who earned his sixth win of the season. Tom Collaro led the Warthogs, going 3 for 4 with two RBIs.

Panthers Announce Cuts
The Carolina Panthers lowered the axe on 11 players Monday, trimming their roster to 79. By 4pm today, the team has to cut another three in order to get down to the NFL limit of 76. Included in the cuts were Rod Rotherford, last year’s practice squad quarterback who lost a battle with fourth round pick Sefan Lefors for the third string job. Also wide receivers Taylor Stubblefield and J.R. Toliver made the list, along with tight end Chad Mustard, running back Nick Maddox and defensive tackle Omari Jordan. Cornerback Dwight Anderson and linebacker Marcus Lawrence were let go, along with linemen Bill Ferrario, Chase Johnson and Michael Watson. The team has to release an additional 23 players on Saturday, when league rosters have to be trimmed down to the maximum of 53.

Former Winston Salem Player Waived By Bills
Monday was also the end of the line for a former Winston Salem State player, as Tory Woodbury was released by the Buffalo Bills. Woodbury, the school’s all time passing leader, had been working as a quarterback, safety and special teams player for the Bills, but just barely missed the cut. This marks the third team in the last three years to release the 27-yr-old Woodbury.

NASCAR Moving To Canada?
Nascar is considering an expansion for next season, moving into uncharted territory. Plans are coming together to add a race in Montreal, taking over from the Indy car Champ races held each year at the Formula One road course. As the Champ series has one more year on its’ contract, 2007 is the most likely date for the expansion to begin, unless a buyout can be reached. It’s not been decided yet if another race will be added to the schedule, or if a track in the U.S. will lose one of their races to Canada.

Busch Driver Accused Of Cheating
A driver from the Busch Series finds himself in trouble today along with possibly the car’s owner. After the race it was discovered that the tires on Reed Sorenson’s car had been illegally soaked, meaning that they were softened with chemicals to have a better grip on the raceway. Both his crew chief and tire specialist face not only fines but possible suspensions as well. Also NASCAR officials were looking into possible fines being handed out against car owner Chip Ganassi, who some believe okayed the move. The cause for concern comes from the fact that rubber is degraded when chemicals are used on it, meaning that while it might hold traction better for a few minutes, there’s a greater chance the tire could blow during a race and create a wreck.

News & Sports For August 29th

Katrina Heads Inland
With evacuations still going on in portions of Mississippi and Louisiana, just how much of an effect will Hurricane Katrina have on Wilkes and the surrounding area? Currently the hurricane has sustained winds of around 165 mph and is making landfall near New Orleans. Right now, what that means for Wilkes is simply a lot of rain, but things could change in the next 48 hours. The National Hurricane Center has Katrina on a track that would take it right to the edge of North Carolina by early Wednesday. If at any time the hurricane turns east, we would be directly in the path of what would be by then a tropical storm. As conditions change we’ll have updates on the storm and what if anything we need to do to get ready for it.

Break-In To Steal Leaf Blower
Sheriff’s deputies were called out over the weekend to a Wilkesboro residence, after the homeowner returned to find thieves had broke into his storage building. However the only thing taken from the area was a leaf blower that had been kept inside. Nothing else was damaged or missing. The thieves apparently had climbed in through an open window. There is a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

Gas Savers Part One: Driving Habits
Gas prices both here in Wilkes and across the state are continuing to skyrocket. And now with the damage done by Hurricane Katrina, it’s more important than ever to conserve gas. This week on 3WC News, we’re bringing you a special series on gas conversation, some quick tips on how to get the most out of your car while keeping money in your wallet. First off, take it easy with that lead foot. Studies done by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy show that the faster you accelerate, the lower your fuel efficiency drops. What that means is that if you push your car by going 75mph or higher, the gas mileage drops by 33%. True you’ll get to your destination a lot faster, but you’ll also be making a trip back to the pump a lot faster as well. Another good idea to conserve gas is to remove any excess items that you don’t need while in the vehicle. For every 100 pounds of extra weight, your car’s gas mileage drops by 2%. Finally be careful how much time you allow your car to idle during the day. Studies have shown that on average, more gas is burned when the car is idling then during a drive to work. Tomorrow in part two of our series, we’ll go over how keeping the air conditioner running could actually help you save on gas.

More Items Dumped On Roaring River Property
For the second time in less than a week, a Roaring River homeowner walked outside to find junk lying in the yard. This time a woman called sheriff’s deputies after coming out to find several appliances had been tossed onto her property. Despite the trash, no one could recall hearing or seeing anyone come near the home. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Central Wilkes Middle School To Hold First Falcon Night
Later tonight, students and parents will make their way to Central Wilkes Middle School for the first Falcon Family Night. Information will be available about the school’s athletic programs, also about some new laws that will affect how PE and Health classes operate. There will also be free blood pressure and diabetes screenings at the event, along with several other activities. That will be held this coming Monday, August 29th from 6-8pm in the gym of Central Wilkes Middle School. Anyone who attends the school is invited along with their parents. For more information you can call Chris Gambill at 667-7453.

Wreck On Westwood Lane Totals Two
It’s always a good idea to look both ways before pulling out. A North Wilkesboro man learned that the hard way last week, after being involved with a two car wreck. He was pulling out of the Food Lion in Wilkesboro but failed to notice oncoming traffic, slamming into a second vehicle that was driving down Westwood Lane. Total damages were placed at $2500 but thankfully however no one was injured in the crash.

Samaritan’s Kitchen In Need Of Help
Last week during Focus on the Foothills, we talked with Elizabeth Ferguson from Samaritan’s Kitchen about the need for volunteers. In the last week however, that need has grown and the Kitchen finds itself shorthanded. Everyone from retirees to those who just want to give a few hours in community service are asked to come out and help during the week. Help is especially needed Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 8am til 1pm. Those hours are when meals are being prepared for the Saturday deliveries, in addition to helping people from the community that need food. The number to call to get more information is 838-5331.

Drainage System Trashed At North Wilkesboro Home
A North Wilkesboro man returned home last week to discover that someone had attempted to do some home repairs while he was out. The drainage system on his home had been torn apart, with estimated damages placed at $500. There is however a suspect in the crime, as a man was seen wandering around the home while the owner was gone. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Blood Drive Later Today
Wilkes County’s blood supply is in a critical stage as we end the month of August. All blood types have less than a day’s supply left, with Type O especially lacking. Officials from the Red Cross talked to 3WC last week and confirmed that there are just a few vials left of Type O here in the county, which could cause serious problems if the hurricane heads our way. To help build up the supply enough to last through a major storm, the Red Cross is asking people to come out and give today during their blood drive at Welcome Home Baptist Church. It starts at 2:30pm this afternoon and runs to 7pm tonight. Just remember before giving, you must be at least 17 years old and weigh no less than 110 lbs. If you want some more information before heading out, you can call the Red Cross at 838-4563.

State News

Amber Alert Still In Effect For Missing 12-Yr-Old
Officials across North Carolina are still searching for a missing 12-yr-old girl who vanished on Friday. As 3WC mentioned on Friday, an Amber Alert has been issued for 12-yr-old Jodie Renee Collie who left her home in Rocky Mount Friday morning and hasn’t been seen since. It’s believed that the girl is in the company of a registered sex offender, 27-yr-old Phillip Dankler, who she had developed a friendship with. Collie left a note for her parents, asking them to leave her alone and not call the police. The pair are traveling in a beige 2005 Hyundai Sonata with NC license plate NWN-2630. Jodie Collie is described as being 5-4 and 114 lbs, with green eyes and brown hair. Denkler is 6’1 and 150 lbs, with short black hair and green eyes.

Man Arrested For Aiming Gun At High School Parents
A man is in jail today after pointing a shotgun at four people who were waiting for a football team to return. On Friday night, two women and two kids were waiting for the Broughton High jv football team to get back, when a man walked up the street and pointed a gun in their face. He told them they had to leave the premises before being arrested by a patrolling officer. 45-yr-old Michael Burton Tighe gave no reason for his actions and is being held in the Wake County jail.

Scam Nets Thousands Of Dollars From Burke County
Families across Burke County are up in arms today, after it turns out a good deed they performed may have been for nothing. 32-yr-old William Hannagan from Valdese was arrested and charged with conning people for money. Hannagan would tell people that his wife and child were injured in a car wreck and he needed money so he could go visit them in the hospital. Some gave him money, while others went with him to the gas station so he could fill up the tank. Apparently this isn’t the first time Hannagan has conned people, as he’s wanted for the same crime in Statesville.

Republican Senator Has Ticket For Manufacturing Survival
People across the country are looking for a solution to the problem of outsourcing, as more jobs are daily lost to other countries. Republican Jim Jacumin thinks he has the solution. Jacumin, the Republican senator from Burke County, has put forth a bill to the General Assembly for consideration that would help create a furniture technology center. The center would help to create new technology, saving American companies millions of dollars while also making it cheaper to produce goods here rather than to outsource the work.

Warship To Be Turned Into Campground
If some state leaders have their way, the U.S.S. North Carolina will be turned into a campground. The 65-yr-old warship was decommissioned some time ago and is now a war memorial and museum. But plans are being drawn up to turn the crew bunks into a camping space, where around 175 people could spend the night. That’s part of a proposed $1.6 million in renovations, including a new air conditioning unit throughout the ship, bathrooms, exhibit areas and repairs to lower deck passages. Officials said that the ship would not meet safety standards and the cost of bringing it up to code would be more than could be afforded at this time.

Billy Graham Breaks Ground On New Ministry
The Rev. Billy Graham might be ending his crusade ministry, but he broke ground on another way of sharing the gospel this weekend. Graham helped to break ground on his own museum, a place that will highlight how the son of a dairy farmer went on to preach the Gospel around the world. But instead of just a memorial, the building is an interactive tool where people can hear sermons, kids can learn about God and anyone can accept Jesus as Savior. The 86-yr-old Graham said he didn’t want the building to glorify himself but God. The museum, which opens in 2007, is being built on the grounds of the Billy Graham Evangelical Association.

Sports Headlines

High School Football Roundup
Around the high school scene, it was a close one over in Moravian Falls, as the West Wilkes Blackhawks beat Wilkes Central in overtime 12-6. In a hard fought defensive struggle, both teams had chances to win the game, but the senior leadership at West helped the Blackhawks pull away at the end. On the other side of the county, it was East Wilkes beating North 19-7, meaning that Coach Roy Carter of the Vikings will have to wait one more week for his first win with the team. East and West both improve to 1-1, while Central and North fall to 0-2 on the season

Wake Forest Lands Football Commitment
In college football, Wake Forest landed another recruit this weekend. Tripp Russell, who’s entering his senior year at Mount Tabor High School, commited to play for the Deacons. The 6-3 Russell, a linebacker in high school, will also see time at defensive end for the Deacons. Wake Forest was the only school to offer Russell a scholarship, an effort that helped to seal the deal.

UNC Wins Battle Of Alumni
Even though their days of playing college basketball are over, several ACC alumni gathered together one more time on Saturday in the Smith Center for the World’s Greatest Alumni Game. This marks the fourth year of the event, which pits former Tarheel players against alumni from other ACC schools. Raymond Felton, Sean May and Brendan Haywood all suited up for the Heels, who also added J.R. Smith to their roster for the night. Smith had commited to Carolina before going pro straight from college. Chris Paul and Josh Howard from Wake Forest, along with Daniel Ewing from Duke were some of the ACC alumni that showed up. North Carolina won 139-126, with all proceeds from the event going to the American Diabetes Association.

Panthers Beat Cleveland In Preseason
In the NFL, Carolina Panthers rallied to beat Cleveland 23-20 in their third preseason game of the year. The Panthers improved to 2-1 in the preseason after backup quarterback Chris Weinke tossed a 21-yrd touchdown pass to receiver Efrem Hill with less than a minute left. The team will wrap up this year’s preseason on Thursday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Minor League Scoreboard
Around the minor leagues, it was a rough day for the Winston Salem Warthogs, as they lost to Salem 9-0. Warthogs starter Ryan Rodriguez gave up five runs in his six innings of work to get the loss. Mike Floyd of the Salem Avalanche hit two home runs on his way to going for the cycle.

NASCAR Results
With two races to go before the Chase for the Cup, the standings got shook up Sunday. Matt Kenseth ran off with the win, followed by Jeff Burton in second, Greg Biffle in third, Ricky Rudd fourth and Rusty Wallace rounding out the top five. Meanwhile, Jeff Gordon made his way back into the top ten. Gordon finished sixth in Sunday’s race, sliding back into the tenth spot in the standings.

News & Sports For August 26th

Wilkes County Hit By Earthquake Aftershock
Portions of Wilkes County were hit Wednesday night with what experts are calling the aftershocks of an earthquake. Around 11pm Wednesday, an earthquake registering 3.8 on the Richter scale hit Eastern Tennessee near the community of Hot Springs. Less than an hour later, aftershocks from that quake were felt in Western North Carolina, including portions of Wilkes. Families in Millers Creek , Moravian Falls, Wilkesboro and Purlear all reported rumbling and shaking, however there were no reports of damage and no one injured from the quake. It’s unknown why the quake happened, as there previously hadn’t been any major seismic activity in the area.

Pressure Washer Stolen From Millers Creek Residence
Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a Millers Creek residence on Wednesday, after the homeowner returned to find someone had been in his garage. The lock was broken on the building and a pressure washer that had been stored inside was missing. The joke appears to be on the thieves however, as the washer was falling apart and being held together with green cord. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Wilkes County Citizens Could Be In For A Refund
Phone fraud is a major problem across the United States and here in North Carolina, the Attorney General’s office is doing their best to deal with it. Now comes news that Wilkes County citizens, along with other people in the state, might be owed some money. Anyone who was involved with American Savings Discount Club, will soon be able to get their money back. The loan company conned 20,000 people here in Wilkes and across the state into signing up for overpriced and illegal loans. ASDC officials would call people and promise them loans ranging from $500 to $1500 in price, all in exchange for an up front payment of $100 and then $30 each month. What actually happened was that once customers signed up, they were told about an additional $30 membership fee, along with a loan repayment fee. As a result, the company has been forced to pay out $2.1 million in refunds and to receive one, you must fill out a claim form, then return it by October 6th. To find out if you qualify or to get a form, you can call the Claims Administrator at Analytics Inc. Their toll free number is 866-890-4856.

Car Vandalized At Traphill Residence
A Traphill man called sheriff’s deputies earlier this week after returning home to find that someone had tried to steal his car. The steering column was broken and over $300 worth of damage was done to the vehicle. Despite the damage, no one in the area heard or saw anyone come near the house. That investigation is ongoing.

Central Wilkes Middle School To Hold First Falcon Night
This coming Monday, students and parents are being invited to Central Wilkes Middle School for the First Falcon Family Night. Information will be available about the school’s athletic programs, also about some new laws that will affect how PE and Health classes operate. There will also be free blood pressure and diabetes screenings at the event, along with several other activities. That will be held this coming Monday, August 29th from 6-8pm in the gym of Central Wilkes Middle School. Anyone who attends the school is invited along with their parents. For more information you can call Chris Gambill at 667-7453.

Ronda Woman Falls Victim To Prank Calls
A Ronda woman called deputies earlier this week after constantly receiving harassing phone calls on her cell. A person keeps calling every few days, not saying anything to begin with but then cursing at the woman before hanging up. However the woman’s cell has caller ID on it, so the phone number was turned over to sheriff’s deputies and traced. Still the caller continues to harass, as the woman has received at least 13 calls over the last three weeks from the same person. Deputies are continuing the investigation.

Recall Of Frozen Meat Affects Wilkes Consumers
A recall is going on of an estimated 900,000 pounds of frozen beef patties across the country. The problem is that some of them have been contaminated with the deadly E. coli bacteria and are a health risk. The recalled products all come from Flanders Inc. and include all three and five pound packages of Flanders Bun Buster 100% Beef Burgers. Also all two, five and ten pound packages of Flanders Beef Patties, and all ten pound packages of Flanders Homestyle Cubed Beef Patties. Finally all two pound packages of America’s Pride Beef Patties, ten pound packages of Flanders Patty Mix, five pound packages of Value Time Beef Patties and all five pound boxes of Grill Master Beef Patties have been recalled. All of the affected products have an establishment number on them of EST 9145 and you can see that by looking inside the USDA seal of inspection. North Carolina was one of several states across the nation to receive the bad beef. You can return the meat to where you bought it for a refund and if you have any questions, the USDA Meat & Poultry office has set up a hotline at 1-888-674-6854.

Moravian Falls Man Is Victimized By Illegal Dumping
Why dump your garbage on someone else’s lawn? That’s what a Moravian Falls man is wondering today, after coming home to find that someone had dumped clothes and trash in his yard. Then just two days later, he returned home to find that a broken down air conditioner was sitting in his yard as well. There are currently no suspects in the case however deputies are continuing the investigation.

Thief Leaves After Pushing Out Window
A witness stopped a would be thief from breaking into a Wilkesboro residence this week. A neighbor of the victim saw a woman trying to climb in through the front window, prying it open and shattering it. After being seen, the thief took off down the road, but not before being recognized. The woman’s name and description were turned over to police by the neighbor and the investigation is ongoing.

State News

High School Athletes Asked To Pay
For the second time this year, a city in North Carolina is asking their high school athletes to pay in order to play. Athletes at Page High School in Greensboro were asked to pay $30 for each sport they’re involved in, a move designed to help the school recoup the nearly $20,000 in debt they’ve amounted. Currently no high school in North Carolina charges a required fee in order for players to take part and Page officials don’t want to change that, saying that the $30 fee would be completely voluntary. For the most part students and their parents have agreed to help fund the school, with fundraisers being organized for later this year. However some families have questioned how much of their money will be going to the athletic programs, as they already have to pay for things like gloves and warm up gear. There are 27 separate athletic teams at Page High School with an athletics budget of $135,000.

Libertarian No More
The State Board of Elections handed down a ruling this week, eliminating one political party from the upcoming elections. The Libertarian Party was removed from consideration, due to the fact they failed to at least get 10% of the votes in last year’s governor’s and presidential races. Under state law, official political parties have to at least achieve that 10% margin or their members and candidates become listed as unaffiliated. The Libertarian Party didn’t even come close, finishing with ¼ of the needed votes. With that being the case, unaffiliated candidates have to get signatures totaling up to 4% of the voters in their area, in order to be placed on the ballot. Party leaders say that they plan to sue the state to get the rule overturned.

16 Tons Of Copper Wire Stolen From NC Town
Why would you steal 16 tons of copper wire? Officials in Warrenton North Carolina are trying to figure that out today, after arresting and charging two men with the theft. Two of the town’s employees, 51-yr-old Gregory Reese and 34-yr-old Frank Gutskey used their positions to steal the wire from an abandoned textile plant. After stealing the copper wire, which was estimated at a value of $20,000, the two then sold it in the Rocky Mount community. It’s believed at this time that the two used town equipment, including a forklift, to steal the wire and then took it out of town to sell. Gutskey, who’s in charge of garbage collection and Reese, who supervises the town’s water and sewer systems were also suspended from their jobs without pay until a verdict is handed down in the case.

100 Year Old Man Rounds The Track
In Belmont, Roy Lawing celebrated his birthday by driving around the track at Lowes Motor Speedway. His 100th birthday. Speedway president Humpy Wheeler first took Lawing on a lap around the track, hitting speeds of 100 in honor of the man’s 100th birthday. Then Lawing took the wheel himself and drove the pace car around the track for two laps. Afterwards he was treated to a cake with the words Aged To Perfection on it. Lawing reached 75 mph during his laps but said if he knew he was being timed, he would have gone faster.

More North Carolina Troops Headed To Iraq
More soldiers from here in North Carolina have received the call to ship out to Iraq. 1500 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg have been called to deploy and set up protection for the October 15th referendum on the country’s constitution. Then if Iraqi citizens approve the constitution, the soldiers will stay in place for the national elections in December. Officials estimate that the troops will be over in Iraq for a total of 120 days. An exact date of when the soldiers will be shipping out has not yet been announced.

Kannapolis Residents Get More Than They Expected At The Faucet
Strange things happened when residents of Kannapolis went to turn on the water Wednesday night. Instead of the normal clear water, liquid poured out in different colors, some dark and as some residents called it disfigured. City officials said that there wasn’t any health threat due to the colored water and the problem was being corrected. What had apparently happened is that maintenance work was going on Wednesday on the fire protection system in downtown Kannapolis. Mud and other sediment had apparently got into the water system somehow and into the drinking water. The problem was solved by early Thursday.

Sports Headlines

High School Football Tonight On 3WC
The second week of high school football got underway last night as East Wilkes beat North in JV football 33-8. Coming up tonight Ken Byrd and Keith Briand will be over in Moravian Falls, as Wilkes Central plays host to West Wilkes as our 3WC Game Of The Week. Brian will be over at the station, keeping you up to date on the other major game going on, between North High and East. That’s coming up tonight at 7:15 with kickoff set for 7:30, on your home for local sports, 1240 3WC.

Tarheels Land Another Football Recruit
Taking a look at the college scene, the UNC Tarheels have landed another football commitment for 2006. Ed Barham, a 6-5 tight end from Virginia agreed to come play at Chapel Hill. The senior from Surry County High School is a two way player, working both as a defensive end and also as a tight end, the position he’ll be assuming at UNC. Last season Barham had 110 tackles and eight sacks on defense, while also catching 20 passes for 500 yards. This marks the 23rd player to commit to the Heels for 2006.

ACC Basketball Schedule Highlights Part Two
Yesterday we told you about some of the highlighted games on the ACC basketball schedule this season. Now taking a look at the second half of the year, NC State will tip things off against North Carolina on Saturday Jan. 7th, while the next day Duke travels to Wake Forest to take on the Deacons. The Wolfpack head to Durham on Jan. 18th, before going home to host Wake Forest on the 21st. February 7th is a date going to be circled on a lot of calendars this year as that’s the first matchup between Duke and Carolina in Chapel Hill. Four days later, Wake Forest will host UNC Charlotte, before going on the road to play the Blue Devils on February 14th. North Carolina will face off against Wake Forest in Winston Salem Sunday, February 19th, then go on the road against NC State Feb. 22nd. Then the final game between Duke and UNC will take place in Durham on Saturday March 4th, the same day NC State and Wake Forest square off in Winston Salem.

Minor League Scoreboard
In the minor leagues, the Hickory Crawdads lost a player as catcher Neil Walker was promoted to the Pirates other single A team, the Lynchburg Hillcats. The 19 year old Walker ranked second in the league with 146 hits so far, good enough to be named to the South Atlantic League All Star Team. Walker had averaged .301 for the season, hitting 12 home runs and driving in 68 runs during his stay in Hickory.

Former Tarheel Looking To Make A Name In NFL
It’s been four years since Ronald Curry suited up and heard the roar of an ACC crowd. Now the former Tarheel is looking to stake his claim in the NFL, as he works to solidify his hold as the third receiver of the Oakland Raiders. Curry is coming off major surgery, as a tear in his Achilles’ tendon forced him out of the last four games the team played in 2004. A seveth round pick, Curry finished second on the team in receiving last season, despite the injuries, having put up 50 catches for 679 yards.

Dale Junior Looking For A Family Connection
Dale Earnhart may look to family connections to plug the holes in his team next season. Earnhart, while not officially announcing it, has all but said his cousin Tony Eury Jr. will be crew chief on the No. 8 in 2006. Junior told reporters thatit was pretty obvious what DEI plans to do with the team, after Eury Jr. signed a long term contract. Junior also wants Tony Eury Sr. to serve as team manager for his Busch Series team, but no decision has been made. With several months still left in the season, it’s unlikely an officially announcement regarding Eury Jr. will come for a while, as he’s currently the crew chief for Michael Waltrip’s No. 15 Chevy.