THE COMMUNICATOR Phone: (336) 835-2511 Fax: (336) 835-5248 Email: [email protected] Since January 1990 www.WIFMRadio.com www.VintageRoseWeddingEstate.com December 2016

2016 Surry County Linda Davis, committee member and presenter. Sports Hall of Fame Daniel White, Parks & Rec Department director. Crystal Whitt, Parks & Rec Department staff. Bradley Key, Parks & Rec Department staff. Our 11th celebration of the Surry County Sports Larry Johnson, Surry County commissioner. Hall of Fame was staged at Fisher River Park and Surry Community College Food Service. Surry Community College on Oct. 29. We are grate- John Barber, Surry Community College police. ful for the Surry County commissioners’ sponsor- Cheryl Largen, SCC President’s Office. ship and for its Parks & Recreation Department for The Surry County Sports Hall of Fame Selec- honoring the role of sports in our communities and tion Committee members are Earl Sheppard, Eddie those who play the games. Wilmoth, Josh Smith, Scott Reynolds, Bob Ward, The honorees’ names are etched on a North Donald Davis, Linda Davis, Adam McComb, Tony Carolina granite monument at Fisher River Park Duncan, Dave Diamont, Jim Wilmoth, Ron King, and the opening ceremony is the unveiling of the Darren Lewis, Tony Searcy and Bill Hall. names. The new members join their families to marvel at the specialness of being so designated and praised. Annually chosen are six Hall of Fame To Teach A Child members who played or coached and Ring of Honor members who contributed in other ways. Seeing Friend Gene Garland and I have been close the monument is worth a ride to the park off Prison since 1970. He and wife Lydia have honorably Camp Road north of Dobson. served Mount Airy’s First Baptist Church since The 2016 Class includes the Hall of Fame: moving there in 1968. For 20 years Gene taught 1. Brenda Wall Bledsoe, Surry Central High a class of 3rd-, 4th- and 5th-grade girls and was School, basketball. grateful for the opportunity to teach, guide and 2. Steven Caudill, Elkin High School, swimming. mentor his young ladies. 3. David Diamont, East Surry and Mount Airy In a recent church newsletter, Mr. Garland’s high schools, football coach. contributions were highlighted by former class 4. Tony George, Mount Airy High School basket- member Amy Wilson. She shared, “Mr. Garland ball player and coach. was a huge part of our faith journey. Each year he 5. Vicky Hardy, North Surry High School, soft- gave us a Sunday School binder which included our ball. classmates’ names, our Sunday School Covenant 6. Will Holthouser, Elkin High School football. and encouragement to know Jesus and how to be Chosen for the Sports Hall of Fame in 2015, saved. I accepted Christ in the fourth grade while when they were unable to attend the induction cer- Mr. Garland was our teacher who shared the steps emony, and honored in 2016 were: to salvation. He has impacted my life to eternity, 1. Brent Steelman, Elkin High School basketball and we honored him by calling him ‘Mr. G.’ coach. “Each year we raised funds and food during 2. Linda Steelman, Elkin High School girls bas- our Super Bowl of Caring to feed the needy. We ketball and volleyball coach. dearly looked forward to a special treat of going The 2016 Ring of Honor inductees are: to McDonald’s. I am so thankful for your devotion 1. 2001 East Surry High School Lady Cardinals to us. We could see the countless hours you spent basketball team. preparing lessons that revealed God’s love for us 2. David Beal, Mount Airy High School announc- and how we were to live, act and give. er for football and baseball games and advocate for “Mr. G is a wonderful role model and his Surry County sports. examples of God’s amazing grace inspired us We honor these key contributors to the success to follow His walk in life. Mr. G’s love, high of the Hall of Fame event and induction ceremony: expectations and hope gave us the will and the way Eddie Wilmoth, committee chair. to Christian happiness.” Elkin High School JROTC Fundraising

We honor our outstanding youth leadership Nonprofit organizations, schools, clubs and program, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps churches are challenged with raising operational (JROTC). Led at Elkin High School by Major Roy Fer- funds. For many it is a daunting task. Thanks to Dr. guson (ret’d) and Sgt. First Class Kenneth Abrams Don Martin, superintendent of Elkin City Schools, (ret’d), 60 dedicated young men and women chose I was invited to share many years of fund-raising to be teammates to develop their leadership skills. experience, especially the 11 years with the Elkin The Cadets look forward to the motivation, ca- Rescue Squad and its Charity Golf Tournament. maraderie, teamwork, self-respect, etiquette, honor, Most people give to solid relationships and to hon- trust, drills, competition, service, academic achieve- orable causes. In our classic celebration, 220 golf- ment and physical challenges. The JROTC Cadets ers and 140 sponsors honored our askings. Several and U.S. Army soldiers use the acronym LDRSHIP meaningful giving principles were shared: (pronounced “leadership”) to remind themselves of 1. Cultivate countless relationships. Knowing seven basic values of the military: people matters. • Loyalty • Honor 2. Honorable causes encourage giving. • Duty • Integrity 3. Build strong, dedicated teams. • Respect • Personal courage 4. Effective askers are fearless and courageous. • Selfless service 5. Spend 80% of our time asking willing and Former Surry County Schools Superintendent capable givers. Dr. Ashley Hinson, a significant JROTC advocate, 6. Never reveal the gifts of givers. believes the program is the No. 1 contributor to 7. Ask for gifts one-on-one, in person. high school graduation for many students. “JROTC 8. Honor givers with handwritten thank-you gives students opportunities to develop their skills notes. and talents. They learn to lead and follow, drill, 9. Recognize strong local retail brands. They are become teammates, accept diversity and develop our core givers. mind, body and spirit. Most of all, they are motivat- 10. Fundraising is 24/7/365. Best raisers are ed to be better people and are transformed to reach also givers. higher goals. Top Cadet Grant Lloyd came to Elkin’s 11. Study our area for potential givers. JROTC an average student as a sophomore, and at 12. Many seniors are willing and capable. graduation received a full scholarship to The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. Servantship

Hospice Nurse A genuine concern for others is the legacy and trademark of our most significant community mem- Waiting in the Mountain Valley Hospice lobby be- bers. Giving is the way of life for those with servant fore a meeting, Gayle McCreary, staff nurse, spoke hearts. These special leaders live looking for oppor- and commented about being my dad, Tom York’s, tunities to lift spirits, to make things better and to nurse the week before his passing on Nov. 3, 2008. give their gifts. She said, “It was this time of the year, and your dad In a talk to a group of Elkin City Schools admin- was proud of you, Anne and Jim and was so nice to istrators, club sponsors and students, I asked them me. I remember him passing about 2 p.m. on Sun- to please take away this point above all others: that day and all of you were there.” willing and capable givers spend every waking mo- I replied, “That was eight years ago. I’m ment seeking and finding ways to serve and give. amazed that you remember the circumstances. How They expect to be asked to support worthy causes do you recall so much?” and have a heart-felt need to be a meaningful part Mrs. McCreary said, “Your dad was so grateful of a winning endeavor. Givers also have a need to and commented about knowing my husband, Rob- give their time as well as assets. After all, capable ert, at Haymore Baptist Church. He was also kind givers are capable because of invaluable vision, and warm. I could tell that he was close to God. hope, experience and wisdom. The need to share is Your mother loved to sit with him. She always came a basic ingredient of the mantra of benevolence. in his bedroom to check on him while I was there Here are three attributes from givers: and ask about his well-being. Caregivers always 1. He who uses well what he is given will be remember the patients who appreciate those who given more. Matthew 25:29. have their best interest at heart. Tom York was a 2. Much is required from those to whom much is good man who let his love show. He knew God and given. Luke 12:48. loved his family.” Hospice care is wonderful and 3. That care of the giving and the getting will be brings comfort to the end. bestowed upon the giver. 2 Darren Lewis for the person requesting a shawl. We pray of who will do the knitting and when it is completed. My Darren Lewis has given 30 of his 46 years to en- favorite time is delivering the shawl. The deliverer hancing the lives of youngsters and their families in is more blessed than the recipient. As it is more Mount Airy and Surry County. We are grateful that blessed to give than to receive. We always keep he was recently honored by the N.C. Recreation extensive records on every shawl and take lots of and Parks Association as its 2016 “Special Citation pictures and to date have eight albums recording Award” winner for his meritorious interaction and the history of our ministry and those we hope to dedication to the betterment and advancement of bless. Our focus is prayer and we know it matters.” the recreation and parks profession. Recognized as the consummate advocate for Sport Solutions making things better, Darren thoroughly enjoys what he does and answering the call to giving to Sport Badgett owns Sport Solutions, an exciting each and every day in every way. Darren, a quiet hosiery company in Pilot Mountain that has carved and humble community servant, is a behind-the- out a successful niche in the production of athletic scenes hero. He serves as a volunteer, official, socks and head- and wristbands. I’ve had a good administrator, lifeguard, marathon runner, events day when Sport and I meet at the Armfield Center planner, coach and cheerleader. He champions the in that he’s always pushing for a higher ground. underdog and less fortunate and works to provide His hope, vision and encouragement inspire me to opportunities for those needing extra attention and pay attention to the Sport Badgett Way. When he a positive role model. His love of community is his speaks I can always see his caring for his team at hallmark legacy. He leads efforts to generate funds Sports Solutions. During our last meeting he said, for scholarships for underprivileged children and “I’m so proud of our teams. They always amaze me adults and to purchase Christmas toys and clothes. with the ways they find to win. We live by the belief Supervisor Catrina Alexander says Darren’s servant that we will never try to sell a customer something heart shows and glows. His walk in life is a journey he/she does not want to buy. We develop rela- of selfless contributions and encouragement to im- tionships with customers where our products and proving our area and communities. In his quiet and values work for all involved. We promise to exceed countless ways, Darren is that person we call on to our promises, and our products make customers assure lives will be better and that his tireless en- happy. Sport Solutions’ culture connects honorable deavors will lift our spirits and serve worthy causes. buyers and sellers.” Everyone knows his sense of charity to all. Savannah Bohr, 10 Chemo Caps & Prayer Shawls There is always gratitude and goodwill around Several women’s groups at First Baptist Church granddaughter Savannah Bohr, 10. She loves to of Pilot Mountain, N.C., do much good for many. spend her weekends with Mom Crystal and Dad The Women on Missions “Susie Bullington Turban Doug. On Veterans Day she and Grama Charlotte Ministry” group led by Sue Fowler and Rita Rogers drove to Charlotte to see brother Travis’ college makes chemo caps that are provided to cancer pa- home and where he goes to classes at UNC-Char- tients who’ve lost their hair following chemotherapy lotte, and they spent the night at mentor Emily treatments. The fabric is usually expandable cotton Antonecchia’s at Lake Norman. Every Wednesday cut from a pattern and sewn with a machine. Since afternoon she helps Grama cook supper for First the group started in November 2003 in memory of Baptist Church members and delivers carryouts to the late Susie Bullington, the members have made the shut-in members. She loves to go to gymnas- and gifted over 5,000 to date. tics training and perform her skills in our backyard. Another church group knits and crochets prayer She rides school bus #115 to 203 W. Main St. every shawls. Member Brenda Dalton shared that her Tuesday through Friday and before leaving the bus group has gifted 837 shawls since 2005. They gives trusted driver Lulu a big hug. She makes A’s learned from an idea generated in Hartford, Con- and B’s at Pilot Mountain Elementary and recently necticut. A designated shawl can go to a person spent all afternoon making an outstanding science who has had a life-changing experience – either a project. Savannah is forever setting goals and loss or a gain. Brenda’s group has been as large as looking forward to a new adventure. On Nov. 13 she 15 and as small as six, and today has eight mem- went with the Hege family to Charlotte to see the bers. The standard shawl’s size is 2 feet by 5 feet, Carolina Panthers. Friends enjoy having Savannah takes 40 hours to make and the material used may in their company because she brings good cheer, a be wool, cotton, etc. The group meets monthly and wonderful smile, good manners and a joyful bless- always has a guest speaker. Brenda said, “We pray ing to all. 3 Copeland Seniors 11-9-16 • Grateful people have a higher sense of self- worth. Since 2002, Charlotte and I have been invited to Once we start to recognize the contributions share fellowship and lunch on the second Wednes- that other people have made to our lives — once we day of November with the Copeland Community realize that other people have seen the value in us Seniors. Dear friend Geneva Mabe was the first club — we can transform the way we see ourselves. president to extend the invitation, in 2002, and we’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity. It was Dr. Jim’s Cards there that we first met the legendary Pete Carroll, 100, and we continue to return each year. Dr. Jim Harrell Sr.’s and wife Isabel’s ministry The Copeland Seniors meet at 11 a.m. each continues to thrive. Their perpetual giving ac- second Wednesday for fellowship, food and fun in knowledges the good is in all of us, and believing The Lantern Restaurant at Dobson, N.C. We’ll enjoy that hope will keep us close to God, and knowing a short Bible study and also share photos with moti- grace and salvation are gifts from God. During a vational stories we hope will portray the goodness recent call, Dr. Jim was lamenting the loss of a man in our fellows and friends. We look forward to gift- who had helped with the Harrells’ lawn for over 40 ing each member a bag of Pink Lady Apples from years. At 94, Dr. Jim every day in countless ways the Perry Lowe Orchards in Moravian Falls, N.C. celebrates the Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital On Nov. 9, 2016, our discussion topic was Foundation and the role it plays in supporting the gratitude. Fifteen of the 31 present shared a spe- Elkin community. UNC football is a passion as he cial blessing in life. Maggie Danley, 95, spoke of went to all home games with his Dad, starting in how grateful she is for friends who call to wish her the late 1920s. The electrifying exploits of Charlie well. During our 2002 visit, we learned that Geneva “Choo-Choo” Justice made #22 his all-time favorite had lost her grandson in an automobile accident in Tar Heel. Wilkes County. We learned this year that Mae Criss- Dr. Jim is the best “thank-you” writer I know. man, Geneva’s sister, is the mother of Joy Hem- Caregiver Emily recently stopped by our local Dollar mings, Bob’s wife. Geneva and Mae always make Tree store to buy some cards. While she was in the sure we feel appreciated and welcomed. Walter store, Dr. Jim seized on the opportunity to send Nichols thanked God for the opportunity to sing in Halloween cards to his immediate family members. the Mountain Valley Hospice Choir. Several mem- He sent Emily back to the store to buy 23 more bers also thanked us for receiving The Communica- cards: four for his children, nine for his grandchil- tor and five asked to be added to the subscriber list. dren and 10 for his great-grandchildren. He also Carol Edwards, Pete Carroll’s caregiver, thanked has a large collection of birthday presents for his God for connecting with Pete and shared her love family and friends. Dr. Jim is our consummate giver. for him. Our special Pete, 100, comes from Arbor When we speak he always thanks me for calling and Ridge courtesy of helper Carol. She said, “We are so for our friendship and concerns. close because he is the Dad I never had and I’m the daughter he never had.” She visits him twice weekly Compliments to carry him to meetings, lunch at Suzie’s Diner and haircuts for $5 from Clarence Inman in Dobson. We Most of us are looking for a compliment. Charles praise Carol for her devotion to Pete and his needs. Stanley recently shared that those of us who re- They share a special chemistry and love. When they ceive several compliments daily are usually those appear we know Pete is receiving Carol’s TLC. who are giving compliments. “Gratitude” also was the topic of the day on During a recent visit to Elkin’s Surry Telephone Sunday, Nov. 13, at Mount Airy Friends Meeting. Membership Corp./Carolina West store on Highway With Thanksgiving approaching, we will all be tak- 268 Bypass, I was greeted by the store manager, ing time to acknowledge what we are grateful for. Jose Minoso. When we shared names I asked, “Is In a study of 1,000 people from ages 8 to 80, it was your name the same as the Chicago White Sox all- found that people who practice gratitude consistent- star shortstop Minnie Minoso? He was awesome.” ly report a host of benefits physically, psychological- Jose answered, “My dad says he was his great un- ly and socially. cle. We did not meet him, but we know about him.” • Gratitude allows us to celebrate the present. It Recognizing Jose’s name is a huge compliment. magnifies positive emotions. We quickly established a common ground for con- versation. Jose quickly exchanged phones free of • Gratitude blocks toxic, negative emotions such charge, transferred my phone number to the bank as envy, resentment and regret — emotions that and thanked me for being a loyal SMTC customer. can destroy our happiness. STMC’s customer service mantra of “exceptional • Grateful people are more stress resistant. service” is speaking loud and clear. 4 Josh Price our honorable cause. They are our event’s ambas- sadors who know virtually every participant. They Josh Price, a vital member of the Robert and are the spirit of charitable giving and they set the Libby Price family — known for its incredible equip- stage for meaningful benevolences, grateful giving ment sales, service, lawn maintenance and gener- and servantship. ous community outreach — also gives by leading Meeting Harold Swaim was also a miracle. We a youth wrestling organization. Josh, a star wres- developed our relationship when he helped prepare tler at Elkin High School in the late-1990s, turned breakfast at Junior Johnson’s farm south of Elkin. to coaching after his outstanding career and he On hearing about our EMS Charity Golf Tournament, coached Aaron Rabin to a state championship in he asked, “Do you need any volunteer help during 2010. His Foothills Fury Youth Wrestling Club opens the tournament?” Immediately I answered, “Sure. its doors to youth from age 4 to high school seniors. Please come at 7 a.m.” Harold quipped, “I’ll get His grapplers practice, stage and travel to tourna- there at 6:30 a.m. You might need an extra hand ments year-round in the state and the Southeast. early.” He spends countless hours in encouraging young- Harold is an exceptional volunteer in that he sters to choose a most-competitive sport, make knows most golfers who play and every other vol- new friends, compete with a team, train under top- unteer working on the course. His 30-year career flight coaches and join a winning program regard- with Woodmen of the World Insurance introduced less of ways, means and race. him to thousands of Yadkin Valley people. Someone Josh spends hours recruiting members who said during his first day, “That new guy Harold is overcome language and ethnicity barriers and who a great volunteer. He made a difference in his first face financial challenges. Members who choose minute. He knows what to do and knows everybody. to participate invariably make good choices in life He’s a winner.” Another teammate said, “Harold and choose alternatives to poor choices. Josh helps Swaim is a great fit. You can’t hook him up wrong. families who see challenges to success find a way to His versatility is amazing and his servant’s heart make good things happen. glows and shows.” Josh says, “When our youngsters see opportuni- ties that lead to success, they choose to join friends Howard Brim doing good for others. We praise and compliment the Price legacy of embracing opportunity and pro- Many know the countless contributions of su- viding the framework for positive accomplishment perstar advocate Howard Brim at Surry Commu- and achievement. We invest our time in love, hope nity College. A native of West Virginia, Howard is and encouragement. Our traditions are winning a 28-year SCC veteran and honorably serves the youngsters to the good side of life. They become Emergency Services Training Department. The part of our family and home.” facility, the state’s premier destination for training for rescue departments locally and statewide, was Rudy Holbrook & Harold Swaim developed under the leadership of former President Dr. Jim Reeves with a $4-million state grant. How- Seeing miracles is my every-moment devotion. ard assists police rescue and EMS units with certifi- Rarely does one have my opportunity to observe cation requirements. and experience the wonderment of the feats and Howard is also recognized as a hard-working accomplishments of incredible servants and volun- helper at the Surry Community College Founda- teers. tion Golf Tournament held each May at Cross Creek Rudy Holbrook and I met in 2002 and recon- Country Club in Mount Airy. Constantly in motion, nected in 2006 at an Elkin Rescue Squad meeting. Howard is a favorite of every contestant, volun- A successful business owner, Rudy is the Wilkes teer and staging staff member. Tireless and ded- County Schools Board chairman, a member of Cool icated, wearing his famous SCC logo’d straw hat Springs Baptist Church, an East Wilkes High School and sweatshirt, he makes sure all the tubs have football supporter and the Elkin Rescue Squad ice and soda, fruit displays are stacked and all Board of Directors’ legendary leader. In essence, beverage carts are manned and stocked. We are Rudy is the Squad membership’s go-to leader, amazed at the number of us who see Howard as keeps the wheels rolling and the mission clear and our most-valuable staffer. Howard credits co-hero on track. Becky Money with asking him to join the college’s During our charity fundraiser, Rudy and Harold award-winning staff. His contributions are legendary Swaim man beverage carts that constantly weave and appreciated and we applaud the countless acts their way around the golf course, giving snacks and of kindness of our crowd favorite: Howard “Incom- beverage to every player. They also bring cheer, parable” Brim. We honor our dear friend who is a kind words and a special thanks to all who support selfless servant. 5 The Millers and working for good together. As family they are co-father-in-laws. Dale’s daughter Missy is married Today we celebrate the life of Jim Miller and to Phil’s son Phil Jr. They can fix, repair, mend or send our sympathies to his family for the passing of build anything one can envision. Customers share a most honorable man and servant of God. Jim and their satisfaction and those needing their exper- wife Billee, who met on the golf course at Mount tise wait weeks for their services. In essence, their Airy Country Club, had 67 wonderful years and workmanship is a ministry that speaks to Dale’s were the most devoted couple I’ve known. They and Phil’s dedication to delivering on promises and were inseparable; I never saw them apart. exceeding expectations. Mom’s wheelchair ramp by Jim came to Mount Airy the son of a Methodist them is a thing of beauty and totally functional. minister and wife, Walter and Anna. A most gifted Dale says, “Phil and I enjoy being together, do- athlete, Jim and the legendary football coach Wally ing quality work, serving people we like and appre- Shelton partnered in devotion and winning tradition ciate, complimenting each other’s skills and talents and led to Jim’s full scholarship to Duke Universi- and providing much-needed services. We turn ty. After playing at Duke, Jim and Billee settled in needs into happy smiles. Imagine two senior friends Mount Airy to a most successful career as owners of spending their days praising their grandchildren, Burke Insurance. They devoted much of their lives reflecting on their happy marriages, giving to those to Central Methodist Church and Salem Methodist in need, serving their churches and charities. Some Church, Duke football and basketball, the ACC Bas- days he leads and some days I lead. We selflessly ketball Tournament, The Masters Golf Tournament, compliment each other’s strong suits. Mostly we sons Bill and Jimmy and their families and most love being together and serving God, family, friends importantly, to their partnership and marriage. and worthy causes.” Being in Jim’s presence always made us feel good about who we are. He infectious smile and Mama Called kind words encouraged us to reach higher, be and do more and to always look for the best in others. New friend Jerry Duncan, who grew up in Spar- Jim and Billee’s devotion inspired us to treasure ta, sent the DVD “Mama Called” about the legacy their selfless appreciation for each other. of the immortal Paul “Bear” Bryant whose teams Son Bill ended the church celebration of Jim’s won 232 games during his 25 years as the Univer- life with these words, “Thank all of you for helping sity of Alabama’s head football coach. He answered Dad to the end, and please remember to do the the call to lead The Crimson Tide in 1958 and he same for Mother. Amen.” We also honor late son reflected the call the same as how we responded to Jimmy who, as a paraplegic, met life’s challenges the call to the needs of our mamas. with a pleasant smile and countless inspirations. He Most of the film is about the charisma of ”The also loved Duke University and Golden Labs. Bear” and the lessons players carried in life. Jerry These messages from an old English poem were Duncan’s commentaries are featured several times. a portion of Jim Miller’s life. The author is unknown. The quote I’ll treasure is, “Duncan, remember that I expect you to go all the way all the time.” Anything Take Time short of total dedication to the Crimson Tide way is Take time to think. It is the source of power. unacceptable. Jerry rose from fourth team offen- Take time to pray. It is the greatest power on earth. sive right tackle to starting on the 1965-66 National Take time to laugh. It is the music of the soul. Championship teams and winning All-SEC honors. Take time to play. It is the secret of perpetual Jerry also showed his gratitude for the influence youth. that playing under Coach Bryant had in his suc- Take time to love and be loved. It is a God-given cessful career. He said, “My relationship with Coach privilege. opened countless doors from 1962 to this day.” Take time to give. It is too short a day to be selfish. Take time to read. It is the foundation of wisdom. When I learned Jerry Duncan had played at Take time to be friendly. It is the road to happiness. Alabama under Bear Bryant I longed to hear about Take time to work. It is the price of success. his experiences. Jerry’s sharing has added a new Take time to do charity. It is the key to Heaven. dimension to my life and the DVD is a wonderful inspiration and great teacher. Bryant’s courage and confidence are undeniable. In the DVD, Bryant Teammates shared how he was raised in poverty on a farm in Arkansas. On Saturdays he helped his mother carry Dale York, 69, and Phil Whitaker, 72, enjoy produce to Morro Ridge’s downtown to sell and doing good work, making customers happy, pro- make a few dollars. Coach Bryant’s highest calling viding an honorable service, feeling good about was leading his Alabama Crimson Tide who won six accomplishments, beginning with the end in sight national championships under his tutelage. 6 John & Mary Freas Elwood Parker

People are sent into our lives to inspire us to Elwood Parker, a birthright Quaker, graduated do more, to show us the way and to enhance our from Guilford College in 1964, has given 54 years of journeys. Please let me share the lives of John and his life to sharing the values and virtues of Guilford Mary Freas and the awesome impact they have College and Quakerism. Born in Woodland, N.C., upon our communities. In their presence we see he came to Guilford in 1960; graduated #2 in his humility, gratitude, hope, faith and appreciation for class; was a Dana Scholar and Marshal; starred in the good in others. baseball, tennis and basketball; and was All-Con- John stopped by WIFM in 2011 and asked me ference in baseball. He earned his master’s degree to share the goodness of his Galloway Episcopal and PhD from UNC-Chapel Hill. He taught math at Church on West Main Street in Elkin. They had Guilford for 47 years, retiring in 2015. He and wife erected a Peace Pole between the church and the Ellen attend New Garden Friends in Greensboro. Little Elkin Creek, and we were more than happy to A member of the Guilford Athletic Hall of Fame share his congregation’s advocacy for peace. since 1982, Elwood’s life mirrors the values and They live on a 245-acre farm near Traphill, N.C., principles of Quakerism and Guilford College. When that has been in John’s family since 1770. After the roll is called, Elwood’s legacy will speak to in- graduating from UNC, John joined the Carolina Vol- tegrity, honor, hope and deep faith. unteers to fight poverty. It was funded by the Ford Seeing Elwood was an opportunity to be filled Foundation’s support of the North Carolina Fund with his hope for Guilford. His smile, kind words and advocated by the late Gov. Terry Sanford. They be- encouragement inspired us to always remember the lieve we are to help provide opportunities for those gifts we received by having had the Guilford expe- in need. Mary also shares her love for spinning and rience and to be ever grateful for being touched by weaving and the classes she conducts at the Jones- Guilford’s sense of community, diversity and charity. ville Senior Center to teach these wonderful crafts. As a Guilford favorite son he is truly authentic in his The Freases have beef cattle, 19 bee hives and gratitude for his Quaker heart and his alma mater support the Wilkesboro Fresh Market each Friday will forever be permanent in his life. Elwood and during the season. They’ve rescued three pups: wife Ellen will always frame Guilford closeness to Bell, Little Bit and Lucky. John and Mary are kindred God and the Quaker ways. souls with servant hearts. Mac and Nell Sexton Ronald Boyles After learning from Wayne Farms Complex The late Ronald Boyles’ widow, Lib, says that her Manager Paul Nordin about the role Sexton Truck- mother picked Ronald to be her husband when he ing plays in Wayne Farms’ success, I stopped by visited her mom and got down on the living-room Sexton’s office and met Mac Sexton. For years I floor to play with the small children of guests who had heard his name, but for some reason our paths were visiting from Michigan in 1949. had never crossed. In a matter of minutes I learned Lib and Ronald were always seeking an aspiring that Ralph Hardy and Garnett Beachy had been athlete to champion. Recent Surry County Sports significantly involved in the start of Sexton Trucking Hall of Fame inductee Vickie Hardy credits them in 1968, and that Mac’s wife Nell and son Ned Pike with the praise and encouragement that led to her were also key factors in their resounding success. stardom at North Surry High School and Catawba On Tuesday evening at 6 p.m., Mac and Nell’s College. daughter, Dr. Myra Cox, was named Elkin City Dear friend Petie Davis told of receiving a note Schools’ superintendent. She will take the reins on from Ronald in 1984 saying that his Dobson Ele- Dec. 6. Having risen to the top from 23 candidates, mentary Boys Basketball Team’s 69-67 defeat of the Dr. Cox shared her gratitude for the opportunity to Kevin Strickland-led Gentry Middle School was the serve an exceptional school system, and that her most significant upset in the history of Surry Coun- family, along with husband Denny, had provided the ty sports. Petie proudly shared Ronald’s kindness support and foundation that prepared her for Elkin’s during our recent Hall of Fame ceremony. leadership role. All Surry County sports enthusiasts have sever- How fortunate I was to be at Elkin City Schools’ al Ronald Boyles stories. I once commented to him Central Office to witness Dr. Richard Brinegar’s offi- that he attended more youth games than anyone — cial announcement. The gratitude and pride on the ever! Ronald said, “Gary, I show up to support that faces of Dr. Myra, Denny, Mac and Mrs. Nell filled child whose dad could not come to the game. Being our hearts with thanksgiving. Dr. Cox, we applaud in the stands says I care about our youngsters. Ev- your selection and look forward to your leadership ery player needs someone who cares.” and the support of a wonderful staff. 7 Price Power Equipment is your leading provider of Toro, STIHL, ECHO, Walker, Dixie Chopper, MTD, and AYP. We carry a full line of Toro Z-mowers, Dixie Chopper mowers, tractors, STIHL and ECHO handheld equipment, SnowEx equipment, and SaltDogg and Kage snow plows, plus much more! Be sure to browse our new online inventory and check out our great financing options and factory direct promotions. Our quality customer service will ensure your satisfaction. PRICE Power Equipment 2116 N. Bridge Street • Elkin, NC 28621 336-835-1600 • www.PricePowerEquipment.com

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