Nov. 19 - Dec. 2, 2020
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Giving thanks in 2020 compiled by ANNETTE JOYCE By all measures, 2020 has been a year marked by upheaval and for many, loss. However, with the season of thanks upon us, local residents took the time to share their thoughts on some of the things they are grateful for and the positive things that have come from this year. Here’s a look at what they had to say... “I’m just thankful to wake up every day and that God gives me the strength to do whatever I need to do. I’m thankful for my family and to be able to be with them during the holidays even though things won’t be the same this year (because of COVID).” Barry Knight, SUMMERFIELD “I am thankful that COVID-19 forced families to stay home and realize they had room in their hearts and homes to adopt a rescue animal. I volunteer for the SPCA of the Triad, and we were thrilled to see adoption numbers increase nationwide, not just locally, during the first few months of the pandemic’s shelter in place. “Our rescues are usually neglected, abused and injured, yet they are still so full of love and trust; they just want to be in a home with someone who loves them unconditionally as they love us. It was inspiring
IN THIS ISSUE News in brief ..........................................................2 Your Questions ......................................................4 Summerfield Town Council meeting .................6 Oak Ridge Town Council meeting ....................8 Stokesdale Town Council meeting ..................14 New Advertiser Introductions ...........................16 NWO Business & Real Estate .............................17 Purchase of Bandera Farms nears ..................18
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COVID-19 surging at ‘very alarming rate’ ahead of holidays
and joyful to see so many of our dogs and cats be adopted or fostered. “The best part has been the updates we have received from everyone showing us their new, best by CHRIS BURRITT fur friend and them together. Because people were home more than normal, the transition was much Coronavirus cases top 100 at Cone easier and less stressful for both animals and their Health for first time as Guilford humans. County Schools plans temporary “While there is much to be thankful for in 2020, I am grateful so many animals have found their return to remote learning forever homes and so many humans have found lifelong friends.” NW GUILFORD – COVID-19 cases are surging, putting a Casey Crossan, OAK RIDGE record number of patients in Cone Health hospitals and “I am thankful for Jesus.” prompting Guilford County Schools (GCS) to return to Bailey Burnham, 8, STOKESDALE remote learning the week after the Thanksgiving break. “I’m most thankful for my health, which allows me to continue to enjoy my outdoor activities with my pups, Angel and Elias. “I lost two close friends this year who were my age, so I’m even less likely now to take life for granted. “I’m also thankful for my parks crew for their work ethic and the pride they show in making the
...continued on p. 35 Real Estate Briefs .................................................19 Turbulent skies over PTI Airport ........................ 20 NWO Kids’ Korner ...............................................28 Youth Sync...........................................................32 Veterans Day Ceremony ................................. 34 Crime/Incident Report ......................................38 Community Calendar .......................................39 Grins and Gripes ............................................... 40 Classifieds ...........................................................42 Index of Advertisers ...........................................47
The accelerating spread of the coronavirus pushed the number of COVID-19 patients in Cone Health hospitals to 103 this past Tuesday, Nov. 17. It was the first time the number of patients being treated for the illness surpassed 100 since the emergence of the virus eight months ago.
“These trends are very alarming,” Terry Akins, chief executive officer of Cone Health, said in a statement earlier this week. “This is clearly not a good situation for our communities. We are quickly reaching the point where governments will need to consider imposing more restrictions.” The outbreak is putting stress on Cone Health doctors, nurses and the system’s facilities and resources, raising the possibility that care and services unrelated to COVID-19 may be reduced, Akins said in a statement. The arrival of the holiday season, starting with Thanksgiv-
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