Teachers Leaving Wilkes County

Bad news for Wilkes County schools, as just over 10% of our school teachers leave the area each year. By far that wasn’t the highest total in the state last year, but still gives cause for concern. The Department of Public Instruction released the figures for 2004 on Tuesday, highlighting the escaping teachers as one of the state’s main problems. Overall, North Carolina schools averaged a 12% turnover in 2004, which Wilkes fell just short of. Out of the 769 teachers here in the county, 81 left this past year for a job in another school district. That percentage actually places Wilkes near the bottom of the list, in regards to teachers leaving. Harnett County had the highest rate, as 28% of their teaching staff left the county for a new job in 2004. Meanwhile around the area, Elkin schools averaged 19% turnover, while for Avery it was 11%, Alleghany 12% and Surry County was tied with Wilkes at 10%. Clay County had the smallest rate of turnover, with just 3% of teachers leaving the area. To help solve the problem, the State Board of Education plans to make changes in the next year. Among those plans are better working conditions and increased compensation for teachers.

More Counterfeit Money In Wilkes

Counterfeit money continues to pour into Wilkes County, this time the victim was the Pizza Hut in Wilkesboro. Earlier this week, Wilkesboro police were called out to the restaurant, after a manager discovered fake money in with the day’s receipts. While it’s unclear exactly who gave out the fake cash, the money was turned over to police, who are continuing the investigation.

Child Safety Check Coming Up Today

Here in Wilkes, 85% of all child safety seats in vehicles were not installed correctly. Too often, such a problem can lead to serious injuries if the vehicle that the child’s riding in is involved in a crash or even something as normal as a sudden stop for traffic. To help teach parents and other caregivers the right way to install them, a safety seat check is going on today at the Wilkes Health Department. Certified technicians will help show you the right way to install the seats at any time between noon and 1pm. If you want some more information before going out, you can call Jean Edwards at the Health Department. Her number is 651-7478.

Car Stolen From Traphill Home

Never leave your keys inside the car. A Traphill woman found that out the hard way this week, after being picked up at her home. Her keys had been left inside her car, which was capable of being driven. When she returned later in the day, the car was gone. No one in the area could recall hearing or seeing anything throughout the morning, despite the missing vehicle. That investigation is ongoing.

Focus On The Troops

Here in Wilkes and across the country, people want to show their support of the troops. But to get the soldiers what they need most, items such as fans and phone cards, it usually costs and arm and a leg to ship. That’s where Operation Gratitude steps in. Jennifer Cooper White will be Brian's guest this week for Focus on the Foothills, as they’ll be talking about the program and how local churches and other groups can get involved. That’s coming up this Thursday at 1:05pm, right after the midday stock report.

Thief Gives Back For What He’s Stolen

A Roaring River man parked his truck at home and went inside earlier this week, with half a tank of gas still in the vehicle. The next morning he got in it to go to work and found it was having problems trying to start. After repeated attempts at getting it to start, the man called a mechanic friend. He discovered that all of the gas had been drained from his truck’s tank and replaced with water. There is a suspect in the case, as a local man had been trying to sell gas to people in the area that same morning. The investigation continues.

Fundraiser For Museum With Opening Date Announced

There is less than a month to go before the Wilkes Heritage Museum opens its’ doors to the public. But you don’t have to wait til November 15^th to see inside. Old Wilkes is hosting a fundraiser on November 12^th, where people can come by the old courthouse, listen to music and also see the finished product inside. Tickets are $25 for the event, which starts at 7pm on the 12^th. You can buy them at Minton Pawn and Music, Old Wilkes Inc. and also at the Heritage Museum itself. For more information you can contact Old Wilkes at 667-3712.

Coats For Kids Still Going Strong

A lot of people have coats in the closet that never get worn. If you want to give those coats away, Our House has somewhere that’ll take them. The organization, in connection with Christmas in Wilkes, is running their annual Coats For Kids drive. Any and all coats are welcomed, new or used, child or adult size, whatever you have to give will be used and appreciated. Two locations here in the area are accepting the coats, Wilkesboro Cleaners and Hourglass Cleaners in North Wilkesboro. Donations can be dropped off any day between now and October 28^th. During the week, you can drop off coats from 11am til 7pm Monday through Wednesday, then from 9am til 5pm on Thursday and Friday. For more information you can call Sherry Mabry at Our House. The number is 667-5555.

Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Bust

A traffic stop by sheriff’s deputies led to a drug bust earlier this week. Deputies had set up a checkpoint on Hwy 16 North when a driver pulled up. They asked both the passenger and driver for identification. The passenger refused and continued yelling at the deputies after they asked for the car to be pulled over. He then got out of the car and came toward the deputies, at which point they pulled their weapons and ordered him to stop and show his hands. Drugs were found on his side of the vehicle, both a small amount of marijuana and also some drug paraphernalia. 31-yr-old Scottie Ray Hamby was arrested and charged with drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Regional News

Dobson Man Wanted By Police

Officials in Dobson are searching today for a local man who was running a meth lab out of his house. 43-yr-old Glen Spicer is wanted by the Surry County sheriff’s department on charges of manufacturing meth. It’s believed that Spicer is driving a gray Dodge pickup and deputies are asking anyone with information to call 336-401-8900.

Congresswoman Fox To Hold Business Workshop

Government contracts are handed out each year to companies throughout the nation. But why can’t small businesses get involved? Congresswoman Virginia Fox wants to solve that problem, but holding a workshop for businesses in the 5^th district this Friday. During the workshop, government contracting methods will be explained and also local businesses will be shown how they can get involved and compete for bids. Also if your business is ready to compete right now, people will be on hand to help get you started. The first 200 people will be accepted for the workshop, so to register you can call Aaron Church in the congresswoman’s office. The number is 336-778-0211.

State News

North Carolina Among Top 20 In Traffic Deaths

Some disturbing figures from the latest auto safety study. North Carolina was ranked 19^th out of the 50 states in regards to tractor trailer related deaths. In 2004 alone, 198 people were killed in accidents that involved tractor trailers, according to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis. That breaks down to 2.3 deaths for every 100,000 people on the road.

School Closed Down Due To Mercury Scare

A strange student prank led to a school in Granville County shutting down on Tuesday. South Granville High School was closed for safety reasons while officials performed an air quality inspection. Concerns were raised after mercury was released into the air during a science class. A student exposed the mercury and then shared it with others in the class.

Jobs Leaving Asheville

Bad news for people in the Asheville area. 200 people will be on the unemployment line after Unilever shuts down in 2006. The plant has received almost $6 million in incentives from local governments over the last 12 years, but company officials said it would be more cost effective to shut down the plant and outsource the work to Canada.

Skeleton Discovered Near Linville Falls

Officials in Burke County are investigating a discovery at Linville Falls. Two people hiking in the area Monday night came across some skeletal remains just off one of the main trails. Investigators believe that it could be the body of a camper who disappeared last year in the area. There was however no indication how the person died.

Illegal Immigrants In Custody

35 workers at a Durham plant were arrested Tuesday morning, after INS agents found they were in the country illegally. The company the illegals worked for, Cree Inc., is a major contractor with the Department of Defense, helping to build and design radar systems for the military. The immigrants, from counties such as Pakistan and Kenya, are currently in a Johnston County jail cell awaiting deportation.

Huge Marijuana Bust In Stantonsburg

Over one million dollars worth of marijuana was seized in a bust earlier this week in Stantonsburg North Carolina. The plants were found on the border of Wilson and Greene Counties by hunters, who then alerted authorities. Over one thousand plants were cut down and destroyed at the site and officials are still tracking down those involved with the operation.

Sports Headlines

Tarheel Freshman Out With Injury

Some bad news for the UNC Tarheels, as they may be missing a player when the season begins. Freshman Mike Copeland tore the cartilage in his knee during a scrimmage late last week and had to undergo arthroscopic surgery. The 6-7 forward will miss at least the next four weeks while rehabbing, leaving just nine scholarship players on the roster. The Heels have their first exhibition game November 4^th against Fayetteville State.

Duke Searching For Backup QB

The Duke football team will be one man short against Florida State this Saturday, as backup quarterback Mike Schneider is out. Duke officials wouldn’t explain what was wrong with Schneider, only saying that he was being treated at Duke Hospital for internal problems. However they did say the injury wasn’t life threatening.

Former Deacon Out With Season Ending Injury

In the senior circuit of the NFL, the news wasn’t any better for a former member of the Demon Deacons. The Arizona Cardinals announced on Tuesday that defensive end Calvin Pace, a first round pick out of Wake Forest in 2003, will miss the rest of the season after falling through a window at his home. Pace had to undergo surgery after slicing his arm on the window. He is however expected to make a full recovery.

Childress Officially Changes Drivers

In NASCAR, Richard Childress officially made a change this week, announcing that Clint Bowyer will take over as driver of the car that Dave Blaney currently runs in. Also with the new driver comes a new crew chief, as Gil Martin takes over duties on the car. As for Blaney, he doesn’t plan to retire, but currently doesn’t have any offers to drive next year.

NBA Issues Dress Code

Changes are coming in the NBA this season. This week, the league sent out a letter discussing the new dress code. Players have to appear in what league officials are calling business casual attire before and after games. Gone are the necklaces, rings and ballcaps. Instead come November 1^st, the players will be walking out in suits and ties.

Robbery Monday At Millers Creek Fast Track

Sheriff’s deputies were called out to the Millers Creek Fast Track on Monday, after an attempted robbery. A man came inside the business, pulled out a knife and demanded all the cash in the register. After taking the money, the suspect ran out the door and into a waiting truck, a description of which was turned over to deputies. Officials located the truck near Mountain Valley Church Road and engaged in a high speed chase exceeding 90 mph at times. After turning onto Elledge Mill Road, the suspects lost control and flipped their truck. 24-yr-old Andrew John Rhodes was arrested and charged with armed robbery, while 21-yr-old Luke Harden Luffman was charged with aiding and abetting armed robbery along with fleeing to elude arrest.

Healthwatch Pt.2: How To Protect Against Bird Flu

Flu season can last as long as seven months here in the U.S., which is why there is such concern over the bird flu. The virus, which currently has no vaccine, is in portions of Asia and Europe, affecting both humans and animals. Now as for your own family, there are some precautions you can take. Don’t use raw or soft boiled eggs in foods that aren’t going to be cooked. Also cook all of your meats and eggs thoroughly. That can help eliminate most strains of bacteria inside. Finally the quick and simple solution is to always wash your hands when coming inside and make sure they stay clean. For more information you can call the Wilkes Health Department at 651-7450.

Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Bust

Deputies were performing a license check on Hwy 16 North earlier this week, when a man pulled up and said he didn’t have any registration. After smelling marijuana inside, deputies brought over the K9 unit, who detected drugs in the vehicle. 46 grams of marijuana were discovered, wrapped in six packages behind the driver’s seat. Also two smoking pipes and more drug paraphernalia was found inside. 25-yr-old Jason Michael Crews was arrested and charged with drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia and maintaining a vehicle for the sale of drugs.

Highway Patrol Out In Force

If you see a school bus slowing down on the highway, it might be a good idea to follow suit. Otherwise, there could be blue lights in your rear view mirror and a ticket waiting with your name on it. This is “Stop Arm Violation Week”, as the highway patrol is out looking for drivers who pass stopped school buses. If you’re caught breaking the law this week, five points will be added onto your driver’s license and a $200 fine will be handed out.

Identity Stolen In Another Country

A Wilkesboro woman got a surprise phone call from her bank over the weekend. It seems that someone had been using her debit card..in Spain. The bank had got concerned after the purchase in Spain appeared minutes after the card had been used in Millers Creek. It’s unknown exactly how someone was using the card, seeing as it’s still in the woman’s possession. The information has been turned over to sheriff’s deputies and that investigation is ongoing.

Another Gas Drive Off

Despite the recent drop in gas prices, thieves continue to hit local stores here in Wilkes. Over the weekend, the Run-In on Elkin Hwy was the latest to be a target. A couple pulled up and the woman pumped gas, while the man bought some items in the store. Then without paying, they drove off down the road. Employees inside the store however were able to get a description of both the people and their vehicle, along with a license tag. That information was turned over to sheriff’s deputies and the investigation is ongoing.

Hunting Safety Class Coming Up Tonight

If you’ve been wanting to get your hunting license, this is the time. Coming up over the next three days, there will be a class on hunting safety at the Kerr Scott Ranger Station. The class will last three hours and 20 minutes each night with a test at the end. Once participants pass the test, they can receive their certification. There is no minimum age to attend, however you must be at all three classes in order to take the exam. So if you miss tonight’s class, you fail the entire course. To pre-register for the class, you can call 919-733-7191. Or for more information, you can call Officer Mark Minton of the Wildlife Resources Commission. His number is 336-957-3061.

Car Stolen From North Wilkesboro Residence

A North Wilkesboro man left over the weekend for an out of town trip, only to find his car had gone missing when he returned. No damage was done to any part of his property and there was no sign of a break-in. The vehicle’s tag was later found by deputies near Suncrest Orchard Road. Apparently whoever had taken the car was later involved that night in a hit & run accident, which damaged the vehicle bad enough that the thieves abandoned it. It was later towed to a nearby garage, leaving behind just the tag. That investigation is still ongoing.

Mailbox Vandals Hit Another Wilkes Home

Mailbox vandals hit another home in the area over the weekend, this time targeting a North Wilkesboro residence. The woman had gone inside Saturday afternoon, then looked out a few hours later to find the mailbox had been ripped off the post it was on. Despite the noise no one in the area could recall hearing or seeing anything. There is a suspect in the case however and the investigation continues.

Volunteers Needed For Special Olympics

North Carolina’s Special Olympics program finds itself in need of help today. The organization is looking for 700 more volunteers to lend a hand during the games, which go on from November 4-6^th in Winston Salem. There are different jobs involved, from keeping score, to setting up tents, line judging or presenting medals. There are plenty of openings to do whatever you feel comfortable with. If you want to help, you can either call 1-800-843-6276 or log on to www.sonc.net In addition, if you just want to come and watch the games, it won’t cost a thing and you can watch 1200 athletes take part in several competitions including golf, soccer and tennis. Once again that will go on November 4-6^th.

State News

Third Sewage Spill In Wilmington Causes Problems

Water has been cleaned up in Wilmington, after sewage line burst for the third time this year on Sunday. Officials were still trying to determine on Monday what caused the spill, as fifteen thousand gallons of sewage flowed out into the Cape Fear River. Officials are saying that the drinking water in the area is safe, however they are asking residents to avoid the area until it’s cleaned up. In July and then again in September, portions of the sewage system burst, spilling wastewater into the river.

Police Still Investigating School Bus Shooting

Officials in Salisbury are still investigating who shot at one of their buses over the weekend. A bus carrying football players back to Salisbury High from an away game was hit by gunfire late Friday night. One person was injured but all the students walked away unharmed. Descriptions of the suspects were turned over to police and the investigation continues.

Natural Gas Prices Going Up Again

Bad news if you heat your home with natural gas. Prices are set for yet another hike. On Monday afternoon, PSNC Energy asked the state Utilities Commission if they could raise residential rates by 11%. That would mean, if approved, homeowners would see their gas bill skyrocket by an estimated $60 a month. Last year during the winter months, the average bill was $112. This year under the new increase, it would climb to $174. The company said they had no choice but to pass their rising costs along to their customers. A decision will be made when the commission meets October 31^st.

Wake County Widow Suing Gun Shop

A lawsuit was filed this week that could affect all gun shops in the state. Patricia Tucker, widow of Wake County sheriff’s deputy Mark Tucker is suing both her husband’s killer and the gun shop that allowed him to buy a weapon. The killer, Matthew Grant, is currently serving a life sentence for the murder, which happened while he was drunk. Mrs. Tucker is suing the gun shop because she claims they should have done a background check before selling the weapon. Had they done so, they would have discovered the man was an alcoholic and had a history of mental illness. The gun shop owner however says that he followed the law and isn’t legally responsible.

Historic Reunion Held Between Raleigh Churches

On Sunday, two churches in the Raleigh area came together for a historic service. Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, which was formed by freed slaves, celebrated its’ 138^th anniversary this week and held a service with nearby Cedar Fork Baptist Church, where many of the founding members came from. Both congregations gathered for song, testimonies and prayer as they pledged to continue in the spirit of unity that brought them together. Several more joint services will be held in the future.

Sports Headlines

Tarheels Lock Up Another Prospect

More good news for the UNC Tarheel basketball team, as yet another recruit has committed for 2006. Brandon Wright, one of the top five high school players in the nation, agreed to put on the Tarheel uniform in 2006. The 6-9 Wright, who averaged 20 points 9 rebounds and 4 blocked shots as a junior last season, turned down offers from Duke and Kentucky to join the Heels.

North Carolina Teams Top Big South

As the preseason basketball polls continue to come out, several North Carolina teams are standing tall in the Big South conference. Winthrop University was the unanimous choice to finish in first place, one year after winning both the regular season and tournament title. Coastal Carolina came in second, UNC Asheville third, Liberty fourth and High Point rounded out the top five. The tournament will be held February 28^th-March 4^th and the championship this year will be broadcast on ESPN.

Bobcats Beat Hawks In Preseason

The Charlotte Bobcats took care of business on Monday, beating the Atlanta Hawks 94-88 in a preseason matchup. Brevin Knight put in 22 points and had seven assists, while Melvin Ely had 18 points and 11 rebounds. Raymond Felton added 12 points for the Bobcats, who improve to 2-2 this season.

Update On Panthers

The bye week couldn’t come at a better time for the Carolina Panthers, as several players are walking wounded after Sunday’s game against Detroit. Quarterback Jake Delhomme was shaken up, according to team doctors, who wouldn’t confirm if he had a concussion or not. Also Linebacker Dan Morgan has a dislocated shoulder, wide receiver Kerry Colbert injured his ankle and defensive end Julius Peppers broke a bone in his hand. The Panthers are off until October 30^th when they take on the Vikings.

NASCAR Standings

In the wake of Jimmie Johnson’s win Saturday, the standings in the Chase for the Cup have been reshuffled. Johnson is now tied with Tony Stewart for first place, 11 points in front of second place Greg Biffle. Ryan Newman is 17 back in fourth, with Mark Martin rounding out the top five. Carl Edwards, Rusty Wallace, Jeremy Mayfield, Matt Kenseth and Kurt Busch round out the field. Drivers head to Martinsville this coming Sunday for the Subway 500.

Braves To Possibly Lose Coach

Just over a week after being eliminated from the postseason, the Atlanta Braves may be losing another battle off the field. Hitting coach Terry Pendleton is being interviewed this week as a potential candidate to take over as manager of the LA Dodgers. If selected, Pendleton would take over the clubhouse from the since fired Jim Tracey, who was let go after the team failed to make the playoffs. The Dodgers hope to name a manager before the end of the week.

Judge Holds Up Wilkesboro Meeting

A planned meeting of the North Wilkesboro town board had to be put on hold Thursday night, after a court order. Superior Court Judge Michael Helms issued a restraining order hours before the meeting was supposed to take place. He ordered that no member of the hospital nominating committee be removed until the hospital board has a chance to present some suggestions as replacements. North Wilkesboro mayor Steve Foster had originally called the meeting to remove several members of the nominating committee and vote on their replacements. The cause of conflict came due to the fact the town board had asked the committee to submit some new names to serve, but instead got names of old members. Out of the four names submitted, three were old members and one was new. The three old members were rejected by the town, because the majority of the board said it was time for new blood to have a voice. Judge Helms has ordered the nominating committee to select three new people and have them ready to present by Nov. 9^th at noon.

Local Restaurant Missing Money

Wilkesboro police are investigating how some money disappeared from the local Burger King late last week. A manager from the store left for the bank, set to deposit $1820. That money never made it to the bank in question and the manager hasn’t been heard from since. A description of the suspect was turned over to police and that investigation is ongoing.

Wilkesboro Man Reappointed To Commission By Easley

A local man was reappointed to the Commission on Children With Special Health Care Needs. Gov. Mike Easley selected Danny Staley to return as part of the commission, which helps to monitor and evaluate the availability of health care to special needs kids in the state. Staley is also the health director for the Appalachian District Health Department in Boone.

Always Look Before Turning

A Greensboro man learned over the weekend why it’s a good idea to look both ways before turning. He was heading down River Street in Wilkesboro, looking to turn into the Run-In’s parking lot. However he failed to check and see if other cars were in the area, instead slamming into a vehicle driven by a North Wilkesboro man. There were no injuries in the crash, however estimated damages were placed at $14,000.

Gas Thieves Re-Emerge In Wilkes

Gas thieves hit another Wilkes County business over the weekend, this time targeting the Fast Track in Millers Creek. A man pulled up in a red sportscar, pumped just over $34 worth of gas and then drove off down the road. Employees inside were able to get a description of both the man and his vehicle, which were turned over to sheriff’s deputies. That investigation is ongoing.

Thieves Break Into Ronda Home

Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a Ronda home late last week after thieves paid a visit. The homeowner returned to find a window open in her living room and a plastic chair leaning up against it outside. Nothing was damaged in the home and the only things taken were several medications from her cabinet. There is a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

Wreck On Curtis Bridge Road Totals Two

A Millers Creek woman was trying to turn into the sheriff’s department parking lot late last week, but couldn’t avoid a collision. She had turned directly in front of a Purlear man, who slammed into her vehicle. The man was injured in the crash but turned down medical attention. Estimated damage was placed at $15,000.

Break-In At Moravian Falls Home

Sheriff’s deputies were called out to a home in Moravian Falls late last week, after thieves came by to do some shopping. Gone from inside was a set of golf clubs, a drill set and a scope rifle. All total the estimated value of the stolen merchandise was $2380. There is however a suspect in the case and deputies are continuing the investigation.

State News

In God We Trust Under Siege

Davidson County commissioners are facing a legal battle to keep “In God We Trust” on their building. The motto was engraved several years ago on the county’s government center, but last year a lawsuit was filed saying that it violated the First Amendment. That suit was denied by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals but the people involved are trying to get it revisited. As such, Davidson County officials have taken their case to the Supreme Court. It’s unknown however when or if the court will hear the case.

Dell Computers Helping Military Families

The Dell computer company is helping military families stay in touch with their loved ones overseas, thanks to a project called Operation Homelink. 150 computers were given to families of the 82^nd Airborne Division from Fort Bragg. The setup will allow soldiers and their families to correspond via email. The volunteer organization, which began in 2003, has been working ever since to keep the lines of communication open between soldiers and loved ones back home.

Already Seeing Problems With State Lottery

Less than a month after North Carolina approved a lottery, already problems are popping up. Information has come to light that members of the lottery commission, including a former staffer of House Speaker Jim Black, have ties to lottery company Scientific Games. As a result, commissioner Kevin Geddings said that he wouldn’t vote on issues that involve the gaming company and an investigation has been launched into staffer Meredith Norris, who still serves as the political director for Speaker Black.

Win Dixie Closes Another Center In Charlotte

Hoping to save some money, Win Dixie got their plans approved to shut down a distribution center in Charlotte. A federal judge okayed the move, which, combined with several other closings, will save the company $700,00 a month. So far this year, the company has sold over 100 stores and rejected leases for another 200 as they look to climb out of bankruptcy protection.

Cherokee History Uncovered In North Carolina

An archeologist in western North Carolina has uncovered evidence that the Trail of Tears came through this part of the state. Brett Riggs has uncovered the remains of 30 Cherokee Indian farms in Clay, Graham and Cherokee counties, also discovering evidence that North Carolina roads were used to evict the Indians some 160 years ago.

High Point Church Faces Fourth Break-In

For the fourth time in the past month, a church in High Point has been vandalized. Churchgoers came in Friday morning to Peace Christian Church, only to discover the damage. Someone had taken rocks and thrown them against church windows and other parts of the building. Earlier this month, the gas lines were cut on the church van and someone had attempted to break into the nearby storage shed. Despite all the damage, nothing was taken from the church and High Point police are asking for help in finding the vandals.

Sports Headlines

Friday Night Scoreboard

Taking a look around the high school scene on Friday, it was North Wilkes falling to North Surry 20-6. Now both teams are tied for last place in the Mountain Valley Conference at 1-8. Meanwhile West Wilkes continues their resurgence with a 43-0 blowout of Alleghany at homecoming. West improves to 6-2 with the win, heading into next Friday’s showdown with Mt. Airy. In our 3WC Game of the Week, Wilkes Central’s homecoming was spoiled by Surry Central, as the Golden Eagles pulled out a 27-7 win. Now Wilkes Central falls in the standings to 1-7, taking over 6^th place in the 7 team conference. Also in regional action, Elkin moves up the ladder to a perfect 8-0 with a 62-0 win over South Stokes and Mt. Airy set the stage for Friday’s game with West Wilkes, beating Bishop McGuiness 28-26. With the win, Mt. Airy stays at 7-1, ½ game ahead of West in the Northwest 1-A conference.

ACC Scoreboard

It was a weekend of missed opportunities and blowouts for college teams from North Carolina. Wake Forest almost upset Boston College, but fell just short in the 35-30 loss. Cory Randolph is proving to be the answer however at quarterback for the Deacons, as he tossed for 193 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for 14 more. Next up Wake Forest goes to NC State. Meanwhile the Duke Blue Devils managed just 10 points against Georgia Tech, being blown out 35-10. Freshman QB Zack Assack continues to have some growing pains for the Blue Devils, as he tossed for one touchdown and two interceptions.

NCAA Scoreboard

Around the rest of the college scene, it was Appalachian State beating Georgia Southern 24-7. Richie Williams threw for 161 yards and a touchdown, as the Mountaineers improve to 4-2. They’ll go on the road against Wofford next Saturday. It was Gardner-Webb falling against Coastal Carolina 34-31, East Carolina beating SMU 24-17 and Elon lost to Chattanooga 10-7.

Panthers Pull Out Last Second Win

In the NFL, it went down to the wire but the Carolina Panthers were able to pull out the 21-20 win against Detroit. Backup quarterback Chris Weinke threw a touchdown to Ricky Proehl to seal the victory for the Panthers, who improve to 4-2. Jake Delhomme had to leave in the fourth quarter after being knocked out on a run.

Jimmie Johnson Wins At Charlotte

Despite a failed engine, a cut tire and a blown alternator, Jimmie Johnson came back to win the UAW-GM Quality 500 Saturday. In a race that saw 15 caution flags brought out, Johnson took the win, followed in second by Kurt Busch, then Greg Biffle coming in third, Joe Nemecheck fourth and Mark Martin rounding out the top five.