THE COMMUNICATOR - WIFM Radio
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THE
COMMUNICATOR
Phone: (336) 835-2511 Fax: (336) 835-5248 Email: wifm@wifmradio.com Since January 1990
www.WIFMRadio.com August 2021
MerleFest Set For Sept. 16-19 Center in Yadkinville from when it was conceived in
the 1990s, through the opening of the first building
One of the world’s most unique, respected and in 2003 when the Yadkin Center was designed as a
revered family-friendly music festivals, MerleFest, is secondary Surry Community College campus, and
set for Sept. 16-19 on the campus of Wilkes Com- until his passing while Dr. Matthews served as the
munity College in Wilkesboro, N.C. First staged in first Director of the Yadkin Center.
1988 and traditionally held on April’s last weekend, In his honor, the Dr. Wayne C. Matthews Con-
it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. tinuing Education Scholarship was established
Doc Watson, Bill Young and “B” Townes orga- under the leadership of the Shallow Ford Communi-
nized the first MerleFest to raise money to build a ty Foundation. A selection committee chose Yadkin
“garden of the senses” on the college campus. The Early College graduate, Jonesville resident, Lowe’s
name honors Doc’s late son, Merle. Attendance has employee and Surry Community College student
grown from 2,000 to nearly 80,000. More than 80 Tyler Church as the $2,500 grant’s first recipient. A
groups will perform on 13 stages. large crowd of grateful community advocates gath-
ered at Lake Hampton to recognize and applaud
Its longevity is attributed to high-quality enter-
Tyler and his family (his parents are Jamie and
tainment; being family-friendly, alcohol-free and
LeAnn Ashley). He remarked, “I’m thankful and ex-
guest-driven; and capitalizing on a unique mix of
cited about this opportunity. This scholarship is not
musical genres. Executive Director Ted Hagaman
only going towards my education, it is going toward
said, “We have unlimited potential, rich traditions, a
my future goals. The scholarship is a blessing.” He
homecoming for artists, volunteers and nonprofits,
expects to complete a degree in Electrical Systems
and pride for all involved. Because of the reputation
Technology.
of the event, artists all know to say, ‘We have to be
The scholarship award ceremony was titled
on top of our game when we perform at Merlefest.’”
“Welcome Back Yadkin” and coincided with the first
Quality and safety underlay this rich tradition.
meeting of the Yadkin County Chamber of Com-
Hagaman said more than 4,000 folks serve the
merce since 2020. The Chamber’s legacy, its Inves-
event behind the scenes. Many people volunteer for
tors Luncheon on the fourth Tuesday of the month
half-day shifts and receive a half-day’s free admis-
at the Yadkin Valley Agricultural and Educational
sion for each shift. G&B Energy is a major partner
Building’s Banquet Hall on the Surry-Yadkin Cam-
and provides propane for all food services. The
pus, is alive and well. Executive Directors Bobby
festival’s features include free parking, convenient
Todd and Jamie Johnston welcomed us. We are
access from the campground and a free stage for
pleased by the Yadkin Chamber’s Board of Directors
pickers’ performances. Children under 12 are ad-
for its astute guidance and outreach.
mitted free with a paying adult. Nonprofit groups
Shallow Ford Foundation was represented by
will collect over $500,000 in revenues to support
Executive Director Sandi Scannelli, Program Officer
their annual outreach and build teamwork.
Greg Keener and members of its Board of Direc-
Ted Hagaman and his team annually stage 235 tors. Formerly known as the Clemmons Community
events on Wilkes Community College’s campus. His Foundation, the nonprofit organization changed its
people also are guiding the leaders of an annual name effective July 1. The new name is inspired by
Faithfest. Go to MerleFest.com for more details. a historically renowned shallow section of the Yad-
kin River that was used as a crossing point between
Tyler Church Forsyth and Yadkin counties. Officials said the new
name better reflects the broader geography served
Dr. Wayne Matthews suddenly passed on June by the foundation, honors the area’s heritage, and
23, 2020. In the words of renowned country singer reflects the foundation’s mission of connecting
Donna Fargo, “He left way too soon.” Dr. Matthews community and local philanthropy to achieve lasting
was the face of Surry Community College’s Yadkin outcomes.
Judge Oliver Memorial Celebration
We deeply regret the passing on July 12 of the For as long as I can remember, local citizens
most Honorable Chief District Court Judge Otis have gathered on Memorial Day at the Centenni-
“Bud” Oliver. In his life, goodness was abundant. al War Memorial on the corner of South Main and
He was married to his Mount Airy High School Rockford streets in Mount Airy to honor our veter-
sweetheart, Barbara, for 61 years. He also is sur- ans. At this year’s ceremony the Mount Airy City
vived by a son, Marty Oliver of Pulaski, Va. He was Honor Guard presented the colors, raised the Amer-
a graduate of University of North Carolina-Chapel ican Flag and placed the memorial wreath; Cassidy
Hill and its School of Law, practiced law in Mount Mills, a student at Gentry Middle School, splendidly
Airy for 27 years, was a Mount Airy City Commis- delivered the National Anthem; former Mayor Deb-
sioner for 15 years and served as a District Court orah Cochran gave the invocation and Mayor Ron
Judge for 17 years. He was the recipient of North Niland read the holiday proclamation; North Surry
Carolina’s Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state’s High School AFROTC students conducted the flag
highest civilian honor for community service, which ceremony; the Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial
was presented to him by Gov. Mike Easley. He was Honor Guard from Mount Airy Post 2019 and Pilot
a lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Mount Mountain Post 9436 fired a rifle volley salute and
Airy where he served in many capacities. played “Taps.” Arlis Thomas, the Honor Guard Com-
At Bud’s going-home celebration July 14, Pastor mander and Post Chaplain, gave a speech that was
Jay Meadows and former pastor Dr. Roger Gilbert relevant, spiritual, timely and encouraging.
spoke of his devotion to faith, family, friends, and After receiving my follow-up note of commenda-
community. His journey in life followed the teach- tion, Mr. Thomas called to thank me. Knowing that
ings found in I Corinthians 13, the Love Chapter. I had photographed his VFW Honor Guard team in
Judge Oliver was the consummate community the past, he invited me to the home of Jerry and
servant. Pewmate Dr. Jon Cawley said to me, “Bud Susan Burcham, 2177 Caudle Road, on Friday, June
was my role model and mentor during my years as 25, to take pictures of this year’s VFW Honor Guard.
a Commissioner. He responded quickly to my needs We gathered in the Burchams’ front yard in front of
for advice and always offered timely and pertinent their flag pole and a yard banner that read “Veteran
counsel. His experience gave him sage insight and and Proud.”
he enjoyed sharing with us aspirants.” Little did I know that Jerry Burcham, a U.S. Air
I believe Bud attended more veterans’ honor Force veteran who served in Vietnam, had stage 4
celebrations than anyone else in the last 30 years. melanoma. He passed a week later and we cele-
He and wife Barbara were mainstays who felt du- brated his going home at 11 a.m. Monday, July 5,
ty-bound to honor those who served. at Blues Grove Baptist Church. He was honored for
I’ll forever treasure photographs of his pleasant his military service and his patriotism, family values
smile and deep sense of gratitude. We’ll also trea- and close walk with God.
sure his devotion to the Democratic Party and his On the day of Mr. Burcham’s passing I received
re-election for four more years on Nov. 3, 1998. He a note thanking me for taking the photographs
was empathic. on the occasion of an Honor Guard gathering that
Judge Oliver’s life and service is best revealed probably would be Jerry’s last opportunity to be
by a poem he asked to have read at the memorial with his comrades. Farewell, Servant of God.
Service of Celebration:
Fallen Limb For What They Gave
A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for Our memories of those who’ve gone on are
me.” mostly about the goodness of their hearts. The late,
Remember the best times, the laughter, the great David Morrison, along with devoted partner
song, and wife Susan, served us at D-Rex Pharmacy in
The good life I lived when I was strong. Jonesville and Yadkinville for 50 years.
Continue my heritage, I’m counting on you. The incomparable D-Rex Brand rewarded us
Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine with a devoted aspiring pharmacist intern program
through. recognized statewide as the best ever. One of my
My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest, keepsake photos is of David and intern John Kindy
Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. from Wingate University during John’s rotation at
Continue tradition, no matter how small. D-Rex’s Jonesville location. David proudly embraced
Go on with your life, don’t worry about falls. D-Rex’s interns with counsel, advice and mentor-
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin ship. David said of John, “He is exceptional, beyond
Until the day comes when we’re together again. compare.” Way to go, David.
2
Ted Koppel was stationary and postage stamps. Imagine the
friendships she developed over the years. A student
In mid-May the Mount Airy tourism leaders were group in Arkansas came to visit Mrs. Evelyn in per-
notified the legendary “ABC Nightline” Anchor Ted son to thank her for reaching out to them.
Koppel would be honoring us with a visit. He and Phillip, Mike Felts and grandchildren will play in
his team were looking at a story for “CBS Sunday our Oct. 7 Elkin Rescue Squad Charity Golf Tourna-
Morning” about the continuing allure of Mayberry ment at Cedarbrook Country Club.
and the late Andy Griffith’s TV show. Koppel, assist-
ed by Producer Dustin Stephens, would arrive on
June 24 and stay at the Hampton Inn. Dear friend Shoals Men
and astute Mount Airy Tourism Director Jessica Rob- Since 2018, a group of young men from Shoals
erts shared that the journalist would be shooting on in Surry County’s southeast corner gather on Sat-
a trolley leaving from the Main Street Gazebo at 11 urdays for breakfast, Bible study and prayer, and
a.m. Friday. Being a huge Ted Koppel fan since the to pick up litter from roadsides. We are grateful
Iran hostage days of 1980-81, I drove to town most for their sense of devotion and synergy generated
excited and anxious. I found Mr. Koppel standing by this selfless interaction. County Commissioner
alone in the trolley, most cordial and unassuming. Van Tucker invited the group to be recognized at a
He greeted me with a warm smile, saying, “Wel- Monday night Board of Commissioners meeting. The
come. I’m Ted Koppel. Who are you?” I was speech- group’s exemplary deeds set an inspiring example
less standing beside my bona fide hero and iconic for how we are to treat our God-given assets.
journalist. His warmth is remarkable. He asked sev- The Shoals men recognized are Jon Tucker, Eric
eral questions about WIFM and my career, thanked Smith, Brett Smith, Preston Smith, Zackie Smith,
me for coming and invited me to be his guest. He Alex Tilley, Orry Benson, Gaither Hall, Patrick Creed
also posed for several great photos. and Tanner Hamilton.
In the next hour we rode around the city while Similar clean-up efforts led by Phil and Eddie
Ted asked 12 tourists why they were in Mount Airy. Harris are under way in the State Road area.
At the end he promised to share his experiences I recently heard that studies indicate heavy
and hopes with listeners on WIFM Radio, and he litter-abuse areas will proliferate and attract more
gave me his New York phone number and address. litter. Clean roads are likely to remain clean.
Ted is known for his calming broadcast voice. Our Surry County officials have established a
His communication skills are endearing, polished roadside pickup program that will furnish bags to
and professional. collect litter and pay groups $7 for each filled bag.
We encourage community groups to unite to clean
Phillip & Evelyn Gordon our roadsides. Let’s all get on board and right the
wrongs of degeneration, sloth and neglect. Call
When I think of the contributions of Armfield Nathan Walls, assistant to the County Manager, at
Recreation Center colleague Phillip Gordon, I’m in 336-401-8201 for details.
awe of his outreach. His devotion to family, Pinnacle
United Methodist Church, and volunteer efforts is
noteworthy.
Preacher Dr. Merritt
In late winter he came to me and said, “Give me On July 4, Dr. Dan Merritt, Executive Director of
some fresh ideas about growing the participation the Surry Baptist Association, celebrated 50 years
of our Stokes County Habitat Golf Tournament we of leading Baptist churches and sharing God’s word
have planned for late May at Pilot Knob Golf Club.” and promises.
Of course, Charlotte and I are always eager to lend After graduating from Campbell University in
our experience and hope from working on fund- 1970, he accepted his first call to lead the con-
raising efforts. We helped connect Phillip to a hole- gregation at South Erwin (N.C.) Baptist Church.
in-one sponsor, Mount Airy Toyota (Brad Dorsett); While Pastor Dan was rehearsing his young people’s
a donation of P-Nut Butter D-lites; a 4-man-team Christmas presentation, a burly parent approached,
sponsorship; and door-prize contributors. Phillip gently pressed several bills in Dan’s hand and said,
thanked us in writing and shared it was the best “Wait ‘til you get home to look at my gift.” Lat-
fundraiser ($12,000!) they’ve experienced. er that evening, Dan surmised that the gift was
A Pinnacle legend and icon, Phillip shares his 10 ten-dollar bills, a handsome sum in 1970. Dan
late mother Evelyn’s passion to develop and nur- drove to the man’s home and questioned the man’s
ture extended pen-pal friends and relationships. intentions, to which the father said, “It’s taken me
In her later years, she would sit at a table by the a year to save the $100. You must keep it because
wood stove with her coffee pot, writing materials you were overseeing my children as I was busy
and address book and correspond for hours on end. making a living at the mill. Please accept my mea-
She insisted that her only desire for Christmas gifts ger reward for your devotion to our Lord.”
3That Extra Touch py. Our ladies are always in a good mood, always
on time and are willing to sacrifice to achieve our
Upon reflection, casual observations reveal goals. When COVID came we pulled together as
many unique moments and the reasons some peo- never before. What a fulfilling moment in life.”
ple are exceptionally successful. They possess an The whole staff joined for a company portrait
intensity and attention to detail, mastering his or on July 16. WIFM will gift each team member an
her chosen calling. They also are never not thinking 11”-by-17” laminated photograph as a gesture of
and planning ways to improve. They often appear appreciation.
to be somewhat casual and relaxed; however, deep Ray has owned stores for 30 years and Ray’s
inside they are totally consumed with diligence. Cleaners in Elkin is his most successful. It also pro-
Beverly Perry is a significant leader at Mount vides a coin laundry and alterations are available.
Airy Friends Meeting, having joined in 1965. One of Its incomparable service reflects The Ray Way. Its
her duties is to meticulously place flowers in front telephone number is 336-835-3300.
of the pulpit. She brings an arrangement to the
front, places it on the table and may return three The Stuarts
times and move it ever so gently, making miniscule
adjustments unnoticeable by anyone except Mrs. Juan Manigault is a key family member of the
Perry. Each arrangement must be placed exactly. purchasers of Dr. Jim Harrell Jr.’s dental practice in
Moody Funeral Services enjoys a superb reputa- Elkin. He serves as its business manager. He for-
tion for pleasing grieving families. Most of us have merly served in nonprofits and is a certified ten-
attended Moody’s services. Never have I been to a nis coach. Juan is a devoted Christian and is most
ceremony where an attendant does not approach learned and community minded. Over lunch he
the casket and make a minute adjustment. Military said, “All of Paul’s teachings were about hope,” and
flags draped on caskets are always on point, as are I used his observation as the topic for a church ser-
flower sprays above closed caskets. I call it “The vice. I encouraged Juan to meet Dr. Hal Stuart.
Moody Touch.” Hal and wife Bonnie epitomize the heart and
For many years I enjoyed parking across the soul of the Yadkin Valley. An Elkin native, Hal re-
street from Rees Clothing on Main Street in Mount turned from the Bowman Gray Center for Medical
Airy at 7:30 a.m. and watching Mr. Flip Rees unlock Education to deliver more than 4,600 babies and
the front door and then with broom in hand sweep provide advanced health care to families far and
the sidewalk from the south property line to Moore wide. To be in Dr. Hal and Bonnie’s presence is a
Avenue. I do not remember him ever not being in gift from God. Their humility, concern for others,
handsome business dress with shoes shined. In hope, faith, character, compassion, empathy, en-
our 50 years he always wore a suit jacket and tie. couragements and endearment are profound. When
That was The Rees Way. He modeled his wares and we aspire to find a way to meet challenges, we are
his store’s passion for excellent, faultless customer led by Dr. Hal to never grow weary and help those
service. in need. He was a charter member of our Yadkin
Valley Rotary Club. A keepsake photo is of Dr. Hal
Ray’s Cleaners standing with a shovel at the groundbreaking of our
Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital expansion. We
Ray Earnhardt and I met as I was raising funds know him to be steadfast in his endeavors to live
to support the Elkin Rescue Squad in 2010. As we a humble life and seek and find ways to serve God
shook hands and he extended a significant annual and worthy causes. To stand with Dr. Hal and Mrs.
pledge, I could sense his urgent need to hire sev- Bonnie is to have been guided by the Holy Spirit.
eral dedicated helpers at the cleaners. Little did we
know that his prayers were about to be answered. Presidential Power
The first blessing to come was Reyna who would be
followed by Rosa, Sara, Martha, Linda, Balbina and All U.S. Presidents have had exceptional com-
Marina. Several are related and all are filled with munication skills. Some were eloquent orators
honesty and a willingness to work and bring atti- such as Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, but not all
tudes of gratitude and positive teamwork. were skillful speakers. Many political observers say
Stepping inside Ray’s Cleaners at 1558 N. one-term President George H.W. Bush lost to Bill
Bridge St. in Elkin, customers are met with smiles, Clinton in 1992 due to poor speaking skills. Howev-
kind words, cheer and joy. Every day at Ray’s is a er, historians also tell us President Bush wrote and
celebration of how good people reward each other sent more one-page thank-you notes than all other
with selfless demeanor and friendship. presidents combined. Virtually every person Herbert
Ray said, “I never dreamed a business can be Walker Bush met owns a prized handwritten note
this rewarding. It takes so little to make us hap- with his personal signature and seal.
4Cooperative Extension 3. We must save our buttons so we can share
them with those in need.
The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Ser- In summary, we must be the best button we can
vice founded in 1914 by the state legislature is the be. Stay buttoned up and be ready to do our part
largest local and statewide outreach provider, deliv- for the benefit of all.
ering research-based agricultural, food and youth
programs that create economic, societal and intel-
lectual prosperity for all North Carolinians. It has Achievers
offices in all 100 counties, is closely supported by When the opportunity arrives, we often encour-
N.C. State University in Raleigh, and is a profound age mentees to proactively seek out and engage in
resource that provides answers to countless how- one-on-one conversations with folks who are mov-
to questions. Programs provided include soil test- ers and shakers in their communities and occu-
ing, environmental advisement, 4-H clubs, Master pations. On Feb. 25, 2004, I asked Wilkes County
Gardener training, and answers to virtually any and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Linda
all how-do-I inquiries. Folks can learn from Cooper- Cheek to send a list of her area’s most influential
ative Extension how to cook, can, sew, raise bees people. Most continue to matter in significant ways
and grow flowers, vegetables and livestock. and most I’ve known for many years. Notables in
Several months ago, I was selected to repre- the Yadkin Valley are:
sent Alleghany, Ashe, Wilkes and Surry counties 1. Jeff Atwell, Central Middle School teacher.
as an N.C. State Advisory Council member. There 2. The Rev. Jerry Simmons, legendary gardener
are 31 such members and we are to advocate for and Baptist Pastor.
our county boards and to attend meetings of lo- 3. Ann Ashman, Yadkin Valley icon.
cal boards in our district. Significant leaders in my 4. David Odom, Wake Forest University basket-
Extension advisory district are Bryan Cave of Sur- ball legend.
ry County, Amy Lucas of Alleghany County, Travis 5. Paul Nordin, retired Wayne Farms leader.
Birdsell of Ashe County and John Cothren of Wilkes 6. Susan Morrison, Bible scholar and D-Rex
County. Our District, the North Central, is led by Pharmacy owner.
Susan A. Kelly of Dobson. 7. Mike Felts, 45-year member of Pinedale
A member of our district and the State Advisory Christian Church.
Council Chairman is B. Fred Jeffers of Person Coun- 8. Dr. Myra Cox, Elkin City Schools Superinten-
ty. He’s a former County Commissioner and farmer dent.
who owns a 110-acre farm that was bought by his 9. Charlotte York, grandparent and noted Rosar-
great-grandfather in 1919. It earns income from ian.
vegetable crops and grass-fed pigs. 10. Zim Zimmerman, golf pro at Cedarbrook
Country Club.
About Buttons 11. Jack Gentry, Bible Study partner.
12. Tom Madson, superstar Parrish Tire sales-
At the start of a Cooperative Extension Advisory man.
Council training session, Gwindy Edwards delivered 13. Max Carter, noted Quaker historian and pro-
a thought for the day. She opened with, “I’m going fessor.
to share the importance of the common garment 14. Dr. Skip Whitman, Yadkin Valley stalwart
button. When I was a youngster I looked forward and advocate.
to visiting a grandmother who had several gallon 15. Ruby Lambert, 100, humanitarian and histo-
jugs of buttons. Everyone in the neighborhood had rian.
saved every button they came across and in time A tribute engraved on a tombstone at St. Paul’s
passed them to my Nanny. I was totally mesmer- Cathedral in London accurately describes these
ized as we’d pour out the jugs’ contents on a blan- stars as ones “who at all times and everywhere
ket spread out in her kitchen. Our neighbors would gave strength to the weak, substance to the poor,
come to find a button that matched ones left on a sympathy to the suffering and his heart to God.”
garment. Matching buttons could save a garment;
after all, we always notice missing buttons.”
Gwindy said a button also represents valuable
Always Remember
community values, such as: Things we can do and be: Have health,
1. Buttons hold things together. We need to pull hope and happiness — it’s never too late. Life’s
together to make things happen. United we can treasures are people … together. Friendship is a
accomplish much; and divided we fall apart. wise investment. Live a life of serenity, not a life of
2. By pulling together we support the honorable regrets.
causes that benefit our communities. Keeping our — Adapted from “100 Things to Always
buttons buttoned is our hope and challenge. Remember” by Douglas Pagels.
5High Privilege County Commissioner from 1998 to 2002. We led
efforts to extend water lines from Mount Airy into
Wilkes Communications honored me from Jan. Surry County and developed Surry’s first land-use
14, 2016, through July 7 this year with the oppor- plan in 2001.
tunity to meet, encourage and interview 235 people Neighbors Stores sponsored American Legion
on Wilkes TV in our series “People Doing Good For Baseball and county basketball tournaments, made
Others.” The 30-minute sessions featured splendid more than 1 million pieces of P-Nut Butter D-lite
role models with stories to tell, life experiences to and built Neighbors into a legendary brand.
share and hearts filled with courage and humility. We bought WIFM Radio in Elkin on Feb. 24,
Wesley Triplett’s guest appearance grew from 2004. Its mission was and is to be a local advo-
“never me” status to rising superstar rank. April cate, to support worthy causes and to be a voice for
Marr taught me to embrace the disabilities of others meaningful endeavors.
and celebrate diversity. Dr. Irwin Alexander shared Charlotte and I wed on Feb. 11, 2005. She is a
his being the person of color who led Wilkes County renowned Rosarian and adores our grandchildren
Schools’ integration in 1964. Amanda Perry opened Travis and Savannah Bohr and Maylee, Mary Carter
the door for the late Jerry Smithey of Brushy Moun- and Maggie Grace York. My fitness family congre-
tain Ruritan Club to be our first guest. Zach Barrick- gates at our Armfield Recreation Center in Pilot
low described the plight of countless aspirants living Mountain.
so close to the edge of life that one misfortune
could derail the access to education for a genera- Selfless Devotion
tion. John Triplett shared how most in hunger will
never take more than they need and will leave the The Dave and Bronwyn Barricklow family honors
rest for those who follow. Dennis Huggins is always Wilkes County with a made-from-scratch bakery
searching for those potential shining stars who at 908 D St. in North Wilkesboro. Opened in 2019,
deserve being highlighted. Allen Lyles taught me Dom Bakeries features countless unique delicacies.
the essence of being a noncommissioned military Be sure to call ahead for the premier hand-deco-
officer. Ava Tharpe and Garrett Vernon revealed the rated cakes for all occasions. Master Baker Dave
ways they turned immeasurable talent into monu- recently shared, “Our cake designer, Alaina Grit,
mental achievement. is the best I’ve seen in 50 years in the business.
Produced by Adam Foster and Drew Cooper of Her ability to translate an idea to reality in icing is
Wilkes Communications’ RiverStreet Productions, beyond compare. If one can dream it, Alaina can
“People Doing Good For Others” is a hallmark create it.” He added, “Also to her credit is the tute-
accomplishment that enriched my life in its lat- lage she’s bestowing on understudy Abby Hauser.
est chapters. Two hundred thirty-five contributors To see teacher and student side-by-side is mastery.
came, gave and inspired. Alaina’s willingness to train Abby is awesome. In
time we’ll have two superstars designing!”
Meaningful Era
What Really Matters At Home
On July 7, for our final edition of “People Doing
Good For Others” on Wilkes TV, I swapped chairs Sister Anne Fehring of Charlotte gifted me the
with Wilkes Communications’ Social Media Advertis- book “What Really Matters At Home: Eight Crucial
ing Director Wesley Triplett for a conversation about Elements for Building Character in Your Family”
my life. Let me tell you, the interviewer’s role is by John and Susan Yates. Since 1992 I’ve kept it
much easier than the interviewee’s. Here’s my story close and refer to it often. The book’s introduction
from “People Doing Good For Others”: declares: “It is not in education, accomplishment,
I grew up near Mount Airy and graduated from material possessions, health or significance. It is
Mount Airy High School and Guilford College (Class character that will sustain a child, an adult, a fami-
of 1965). My role models were Elbert Badgett, Dr. ly.” The authors’ eight crucial elements to building a
Swanson Richards, Mike Cooke, Johnny Sanders, child’s character are teaching the following:
Mrs. Caroline Sydnor, Dr. Herb Appenzeller, Stuart 1. Integrity — The honesty of a person.
Maynard and Dr. Alan Mabe. 2. Faith — We totally depend on God.
After a brief teaching career I joined York Oil Co. 3. Self-discipline — Strong habits.
in 1970. Neighbors Stores began in 1981 and was 4. Joy — Rejoicing is true wisdom.
sold to Circle K in 2011. After years of drug and 5. Compassion — Let mercy show.
alcohol addiction I ended the charade and debacle 6. Courage — The first human quality.
on May 8, 1986. 7. Humility — A great person is humble and has
I served the Mount Airy City Schools Board a teachable spirit.
of Education from 1992 to 1998 and was a Surry 8. Service — Having a servant’s heart.
6Coach Jerry Steele er in Europe during World War II and returned to
graduate from N.C. State University before starting
We deeply regret the passing at 82 in Greens- his career as a teacher. He was so easy to like. He
boro of Coach Jerry Steele, the legendary leader had a genuine interest in me and possessed a level
whose men’s basketball teams played more than of humility that was so unique. His listening acumen
1,000 games, mostly at the collegiate level at was extraordinary and he knew everyone at the
Guilford College and High Point University. A huge Reunion and would share his relationships.
group of admirers gathered for his going-home cel- My dear friend Rudy Holbrook often shares his
ebration. During the milling-around hour the atmo- appreciation for Mr. Bunker. He said Mr. Bunker was
sphere reverborated with stories of his willingness the most admired teacher during his school career
to foster the underdogs and the striving, of over- and had an endearing demeanor. “He made us feel
coming insurmountable foes, and achieving levels of good about who we were.”
profound gratitude. Mr. Bunker passed on Dec. 25, 2020. I was
He was born in Elkin in 1939, grew to 6’8” and honored to attend his graveside service on July 17
became a local standout in three sports. He played at Skyline Cemetery. Several friends and family
under legendary Coach Bones McKinney at Wake members eulogized him. The Veterans of Foreign
Forest University and was a two-time academic All- Wars Mount Airy Post 2019 and Pilot Mountain Post
ACC selection. After earning a master’s degree at 9436 Honor Guard honored his passing and military
UNC-Chapel Hill, he started as head coach at Guil- service.
ford College in 1962. We last spoke at fellow veteran Thurmond Mid-
Lifelong friend and former assistant Coach Roy kiff’s service at Westfield Baptist Church. Hershell
Williams spoke of being recruited to turn around a Bunker honored his relationships and callings.
pathetic Guilford program against unthinkable odds,
and of waking in the intensive-care unit after a Winning Strategy
near-fatal auto crash to see Coach Steele praying in
the corner of the hospital ward. Dr. Dan Merritt preached his first sermon on
Coach Tubby Smith shared Coach Steele’s re- July 4, 1972, in Erwin, N.C. Over the past 50 years
cruiting visits, weekly phone calls for over 40 years, he’s invested his time leading others to Christ and
and his role as his second father. also serving several local high schools as a volun-
Daughter Cindy’s rendition of “It Is Well With My teer track and cross-country coach. He was a track
Soul,” accompanied on guitar by her husband Allan star at Campbell University and it was there that he
Beck, was a most elegant and endearing blessing to gave his heart to Christ at a Bill Glass Evangelical
all who came. Crusade.
Coach Dave Odom’s meritorious career began In the spring of his Stanford High School se-
with being recruited by Coach Steele to become a nior year, Dan’s guidance counselor remarked to
Guilford College point guard in 1962. He recalled him and his mother that due to his poor marks no
Coach Steele driving him from Newberry College college would accept Dan. Nevertheless, Campbell
to Goldsboro, N.C., after the sudden death of his University in Buies Creek, N.C., took a chance, gave
father in 1964. Coach Odom praised wife Kitty and him a scholarship and admission, and watched Dan
daughters Jenny Steele and Cindy Beck for their become a Dean’s List student and cross-country
steadfast love and care. star.
Coach Steele; Sam, Charles and Page Moir; Dan and I met at a cross-country meet at Surry
David Odom; and Tommy Childress got together Central High School in 2003 and I marveled at the
in Greensboro in 2015. The six coaches won more exploits of his gifted runners. While he was at East
than 2,600 college basketball games. Wilkes High School, eventual Girls Cross-Country
State Champion Anna Hayes accepted Dan’s strate-
Hershell Bunker gy and won the coveted state crown.
Anna had lost to her Bishop McGuinness High
We met Hershell Wendell Bunker of Pilot Moun- School rival for three years. Anna, a strength run-
tain at a July meeting of the Bunker Family Reunion ner, was losing to the Bishop girl as she would
in Mount Airy’s First Baptist Church. He had spent sprint to the finish line. Dan’s plan was for Anna to
much of his professional career teaching agricultural get ahead and stay in the lead throughout the en-
science at East Wilkes High School in Ronda, N.C. tire state championship race. During the second of
His soil judging team won the state competition three miles Anna built up such a lead that the Bish-
and was runner-up at the National in Kansas City. op harrier could not pass her at the end and Anna
His wonderful wife of 71 years, Ethelene, was his won by two yards. The moral is: If we don’t change,
devoted companion and partner. we’ll keep losing. However, if we change we might
Mr. Bunker served as an officer on a B-24 Bomb- lose, but we might win. And win Anna did.
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