TOWN OF COOLEEMEE, NORTH CAROLINA RESCISSION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION January 2026 – Winter Storm Fern
WHEREAS, on January 24, 2026, the Mayor of the Town of Cooleemee declared a State of Emergency in response to Winter Storm Fern pursuant to Chapter 166A of the North Carolina General Statutes and the Town of Cooleemee Code of Ordinances; and
WHEREAS, conditions related to Winter Storm Fem have stabilized and no longer pose an immediate threat to public health, safety, or property within the Town of Cooleemee; and
WHEREAS, emergency response operations have transitioned from immediate response activities to recovery and routine municipal operations; NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Mayor of the Town of Cooleemee under Chapter 166A of the North Carolina General Statutes and the Town of Cooleemee Emergency Management Ordinances:
Section 1. The previously declared State of Emergency for the Town of Cooleemee related to Winter Storm Fem is hereby rescinded.
Section 2. All emergency restrictions, directives, and special authorities enacted under the State of Emergency declaration are terminated effective immediately, unless otherwise extended by . separate official action.
Section 3. This rescission shall take effect immediately upon issuance on this 28th day of January, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
RESCINDED this 28th day of January, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
The Town of Cooleemee can confirm that former clerk Aaron Thies was indicted by the grand jury on or about January 6, 2026. The grand jury issued indictments for two class C felonies and one class F felony.
The town continues to cooperate with the State Bureau of Investigation and a special state prosecutor.
The town declines to comment further as this is still an active investigation.
The winter storm that is coming for the weekend looks to be more of an ice than snow event, plus anything that falls will be with us for several days due to the cold temperatures that will be in place through Tuesday. I have talked with the county, the Cooleemee Fire Department and Duke Power. All three have made plans to have people in place to deal with whatever comes up during the storm. They all say one important thing we can do is to plan ahead and not be out on the roads after the event starts. Travel will be treacherous with all the ice that is coming. The safety tips below are a good guideline to help in preparation.
Important safety tips
Be sure to have a plan in place if you lose power for an extended period of time, especially if you or a family member relies on electricity for medical needs. This is especially important in a winter storm when travel conditions could be hazardous. Please consider the following reminders.
Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized, as well as trees, limbs, fences, or anything in contact with lines.
Ensure mobile phones remain charged, and you have an adequate supply of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, nonperishable foods, and medicines.
If you use a generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and proper operation. Operate your generator outside, and never in a building or garage.
Do not use grills or other outdoor appliances indoors for space heating or cooking, as these devices may emit carbon monoxide.
If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the car. If you MUST exit the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
Winter storms can result in hazardous driving conditions. Stay off the road if possible, but if you must travel, watch for utility crews working along the road restoring power. Move over or slow down and give them room to work safely.
Please think about all the fire fighters, sheriff deputies, county employees, and Duke Power employees that will be working during the next several days to help keep us safe.
Vice President of Wreaths for Veterans Mike Satterfield lays wreaths at veterans’ graves with Winnie Mosher.
On Saturday, December 13th, a large group of volunteers gathered with respectful hearts to place wreaths on the graves of all 163 veterans who have been laid to rest at the Legion Memorial Park Cemetery located on 801 South, Cooleemee, NC.
Honoring Generations of Service
Commander Seamon of Cooleemee – Mocksville VFW Post 1119 confirmed that there are 4 Civil War Veterans, also WWI, WWII, Korean, Vietnam, Desert Shield, Desert Storm and War on Terror veterans buried there. Tammy Williamson, Commander of the NC Veterans Council, was present, and it was her first time being involved.
Wayne Depres, commander of American Legion Post #54, chartered in 1943.
How a Child’s Question Sparked a Movement
Vice President of Wreaths for Veterans Mike Satterfield explained that 8 years ago, he had an opportunity to lay a ceremonial wreath at the Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Salisbury Annex at the VA. After the ceremony, a little girl approached Satterfield and asked him why her grandfather didn’t get a wreath. They were about seven thousand wreaths short.
Luckily, he had two wreaths in his truck, and he gave the little girl one to put on her grandfather’s grave.
Bud Fritts, a member of the Rolling Thunder Inc., helps place wreaths. Rolling Thunder® Inc. is a U.S. non-profit advocacy group focused on bringing full accountability for Prisoners of War (POWs) and Missing in Action (MIAs) from all wars, educating the public, and supporting veterans.
A Local Mission with Community Impact
After Satterfield told the story to Perry Kessler and Jody Pickett, they decided to create a new group called Wreaths for Veterans. This group does the exact same thing as Wreaths Across America, but on a local level. All the money they take in provides wreaths from farms they have partners with in the NC mountains. Fundraisers and any donations are accepted. Contact www.wreathsforveterans.org if interested.
Volunteers place wreaths on the graves of all 163 veterans who have been laid to rest at the Legion Memorial Park Cemetery located on 801 South, Cooleemee, NC.
Cooleemee ushered in the holiday season with smiles, waves, and plenty of hometown pride as families lined the streets for the annual Christmas Parade on November 29th. From Cooleemee Elementary School to the historic Zachary House, neighbors bundled up, children giggled with excitement, and the community came together in the way only Cooleemee can.
Christmas the Cooleemee Way
After the last festive float rolled by, the celebration shifted to the Zachary House for the town’s treasured Old-Time Christmas gathering. Sponsored by the Cooleemee Historical Association (CHA), the Town of Cooleemee, and The Bridge Church, this holiday tradition felt like stepping back into a simpler, sweeter time.
Honoring Heritage, Traditions & Togetherness
Mayor Jeff Smith warmly welcomed everyone and shared heartfelt reflections on Cooleemee’s rich heritage. Established in 1898 and incorporated in 1985, the town proudly celebrates 40 years of incorporation this year—a milestone rooted in community, resilience, and shared memories.
He spoke about what makes Cooleemee special: the traditions that bring us together year after year—tasting homemade fudge, sipping hot cocoa, visiting with Santa, and catching up with friends you may not have seen since “the good ole days.” These moments, he shared, are what keep Cooleemee’s close-knit spirit alive.
Looking ahead, Mayor Smith also celebrated the excitement surrounding the upcoming groundbreaking of the new community center—a project that reflects the town’s motto: Preserving the Past, Building Our Future.
A Program Filled with Meaning and Merriment
Guests enjoyed a beautiful lineup of holiday favorites, including:
A reading from the Book of Luke — Justin Blue, The Bridge Church
’Twas the Night Before Christmas — Lynn Vogler
Visits and photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Caroling and sweet moments of fellowship
A Delicious Tradition Lives On
No Cooleemee Christmas would be complete without the town’s beloved fudge contest—an event with a history as rich as the treats themselves. Created years ago by former Mayor John Chandler, and paired with former Mayor Steve Corriher’s vision for a local Christmas parade, these traditions continue to shape Cooleemee’s holiday season.
Congratulations to Cathy Cook, who won the fudge contest for the second year in a row with yet another mouthwatering creation!
A Celebration of Community Spirit
From the joyful parade to the timeless charm of Old-Time Christmas, this year’s celebration once again highlighted everything that makes Cooleemee such a wonderful place to call home. Rooted in history, filled with tradition, and always looking toward the future, Cooleemee continues to shine—especially at Christmastime.
The streets of Cooleemee will come alive with holiday spirit on Saturday, November 29, 2025, during the annual Cooleemee Christmas Parade and Old-Time Christmas Celebration! This beloved hometown tradition brings together friends, families, and neighbors to share in the joy and wonder of the season.
A Parade Full of Holiday Cheer
The fun begins at 4 p.m. as the parade steps off from Cooleemee Elementary School, featuring community groups, festive floats, classic cars, and cheerful participants spreading Christmas joy all along the route. The procession winds its way to the historic Zachary House, where the celebration continues. (If you would like to be part of the magic, plan to be at Cooleemee Elementary at 3 p.m. to join the parade lineup.)
Old-Time Christmas at the Zachary House
Following the parade, head over to the Zachary House for the Old-Time Christmas Celebration, hosted by the Cooleemee Historical Association (CHA), the Town of Cooleemee, and The Bridge Church. Enjoy an afternoon filled with holiday nostalgia, delicious treats, and activities for all ages.
Guests can look forward to:
A visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Readings of the Christmas Story and ’Twas the Night Before Christmas
Hot chocolate, cider, and desserts to keep everyone warm and merry
The Sweet Return of the Fudge Contest
Back by popular demand — the Cooleemee Fudge Contest! Originally introduced by retired Cooleemee Mayor John Chandler in the early 2000s, this tasty competition was revived last year and quickly became a crowd favorite once again.
Think your fudge is the best in town? All types and flavors are welcome!
Bring your entry to the Zachary House by 3 p.m. on November 29th to be part of the contest. Samples will be shared at the dessert table, and the winner will be announced during the Old-Time Christmas festivities. The champion will earn bragging rights and their name engraved on the official trophy!
For more information about the fudge contest, contact John Chandler at (336) 940-0848.
Experience the charm of an old-fashioned Cooleemee Christmas and make memories that will last a lifetime. These festive community events promise to fill your holiday season with warmth, joy, and hometown pride. Don’t miss out — mark your calendars and follow the Town of Cooleemee on Facebook for event updates!
Relive last year’s magic with these fabulous photos by KC Smith.
Residents in Cooleemee and the surrounding area have a new faith-based resource for health, wellness, and community care. Kristi McCray, BSN, RN, now serves as a Faith Community Nurse (FCN) at The Bridge, located at 197 Main Street in Cooleemee. Through this ministry, McCray is helping connect healthcare and faith to promote whole-person wellness — body, mind, and spirit.
Bridging Faith and Health
Faith Community Nursing is a growing partnership model that unites healthcare and local faith communities. It offers education, preventive resources, and compassionate support to help individuals and families live healthier, more balanced lives.
“Our services are designed to complement what community partners are already offering,” said McCray. “Together, we can make sure residents have access to information and care that supports their overall well-being.
Community leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, and advocates are encouraged to help spread the word and connect residents with the Faith Community Health Ministry at The Bridge.
Free October Wellness Event Open to All
To celebrate this new ministry, McCray and her partners will host a free community wellness event focused on preventive health, early detection, and wellness education.
Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Location: The Bridge, 197 Main Street, Cooleemee, NC 27014
This event is open to the entire community and will feature a variety of free resources, screenings, and health education opportunities. Jay Patel from Davie Discount Drugs will be on-site, administering flu vaccines (including high-dose options for individuals aged 65 and above) and COVID-19 vaccines.
Participants can also take advantage of:
Blood pressure checks and education
Free sign-ups for breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer screenings
COVID-19 and flu immunizations
Free food distribution and connection to community resources
And much more!
Registration is not required, but all screenings will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Promoting Health and Hope in Davie County
The event is hosted by the Atrium Health Faith Community Health Ministry, a collaboration between Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and local community partners dedicated to promoting health and wholeness.
“This program is about more than just healthcare — it’s about building relationships and strengthening our community,” McCray explained.
For more information about faith-based wellness services or the October Wellness Event, contact Kristi McCray, BSN, RN, at Kristi.mccray@advocatehealth.org.
The Grimes Parker family: (L to R) Lauren Brooks, Cameron Brooks, Parker Brooks, Greg Brooks, Blakely Brooks, Fran Parker, Alicia Johnson, Bodie Parker, Steven Parker, Dana Parker, Brooks Johnson with Catherine, Owen Parker, Crosby Parker. Not pictured are Drue Parker and Somer Johnson
Cooleemee’s First ABC Store Rededicated in Honor of Longtime Board Member and Community Leader
On Saturday, October 4th, Kris Howell, general manager of the Mocksville–Cooleemee ABC Store, officially dedicated the first store in Cooleemee in memory of the late Grimes “Bimmy” Parker. Parker served on the ABC Board for 24 years and played a key role in shaping the local ABC system.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
The Cooleemee ABC store, established in 1987, sold its first bottle in 1988. Grimes Parker was instrumental in hiring Kris Howell, who remembers his mentorship fondly:
“I worked every day like it was my first day and like my life depended on it,” she said.
Parker and Howell shared a vision of expanding services to Mocksville. With Parker’s encouragement, Howell proposed the idea to town leaders. That vision came to life in 2018 when the ABC store relocated to Mocksville, a milestone both were proud of.
“I kept my promise,” Howell stated, referring to her commitment to ensure Cooleemee would continue to be well-served.
Employees of the Cooleemee ABC Store (L to R) Cooper Wall (store manager), Cathy Belluchi, Gina Smith, Bodie Parker, Kris Howell, Kathy Short, John Bivins
Community Events and Giving Back
Today, the Cooleemee store is managed by Cooper Wall and remains an active part of the community. One of its hallmark events is the annual liquor lottery held on the second Saturday of December, drawing nearly 400 attendees last year. The event offers rare and hard-to-find bottles, along with specially designed T-shirts.
Proceeds from the event support local causes dear to Parker’s heart, including the Grimes Parker Basketball Camp, the Vernon Thompson Scholarship Fund, and the Dragonfly House.
Cooleemee Mayor Jeff Smith and Fran Parker Fran Parker and Kris Howell
A Lasting Tribute
The dedication event drew a large and heartfelt crowd—friends, family, and community members who shared personal stories and paid tribute to Parker’s life and legacy.
The commemorative plaque reads:
Grimes “Bimmy” Parker A lifelong resident of Cooleemee, North Carolina. He was an educator, athletics coach in Davie County for over 40 years, as well as a member of the ABC Board for over 20 years. He was instrumental in bringing ABC stores to both Cooleemee and Mocksville. Above all, he was a beloved member of the community, a friend and mentor to all.
Feel free to contact me at cooleemeenews@gmail.com or call at 336.250.1133.
The Cooleemee Historical Association and Bridge Church team up to host a lively event featuring games, treats, school supplies, and a special introduction to new health ministry services.
By KC Smith
When the Cooleemee Historical Association joins with the Bridge Church in Cooleemee, you know something good is going to happen, like a back-to-school party.
A bouncy house, water slide, watermelon contests, games, popcorn, grilled hot dogs, flavored ices, and cotton candy were free to everyone present, young and old.
Kristi McCray was a special guest from Charlotte, NC. Our community is very excited to have a registered nurse located at the Bridge Church, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Faith Community Health Ministry is a collaboration between Atrium Health and faith communities. McCray’s unique role in health ministry is a diverse service of caring for body, mind, and spirit. For more information, call 704-631-0718 or email AtriumHealth.org/faith.
A big thank you to the CHA and the Bridge Church for providing a great day for our school kids to have fun, scream, bounce, win backpacks full of school supplies, and eat until their bellies were full. What a great day in our little town called Cooleemee.
We have a new fire chief in town, and her name is Velvet Hackett. Hackett has been involved in the fire service for ten years in Davidson County. Four years ago, she joined the Cooleemee Fire Department and advanced to Captain; this past February, she was promoted to Chief.
Learning the Ropes of Leadership
The ins and outs of Fire Chief presented a learning curve that included budgets and grants, and making sure the firefighters have top-of-the-line equipment. The drive behind that focus is always for the benefit of the citizens.
Building a Strong Leadership Team
Captain Ryan Hall, after serving ten years in Iredell County, came to Davie County, where it felt like a large family right away. Hall started serving Cooleemee earlier this year and was recently promoted to captain. His job is focusing on personnel and training to provide the best for the citizens of Cooleemee and the surrounding areas.
Lieutenant Ryan Hepler has served in the fire department for 15 years, with the last four years serving part-time in Cooleemee. His focus is on making sure the building and trucks are in good working order.
(L to R) Chief Velvet Hackett, Captain Ryan Hall, Captain Michael Galliher Jr., Lieutenant Ryan Hepler, Safety Officer Josh Lyles, Senior Fire Fighter Hunter Cochran, Senior FirefighterDylan Hewkey, Senior Fire Fighter Austin Doby
A Rigorous Promotional Process
Hackett explained that the department has a promotional process in effect. Each firefighter takes a written exam covering policies and procedures, as well as knowledge of the fire service. A panel interview is held by Hackett and the deputy chief. An outsider from the county is included to guard against favoritism.
Hands-on assessments measure practical skills at the training grounds in Mocksville. Running various scenarios tests how they operate on the fire ground.
Hackett chooses her officers based on how well they function. “Officers handle more than just putting out fires,” says Hackett, so the layers of interviewing help her determine who is fit to hold which office.
A Department on the Rise
Thirty people are currently on the roster. Comments from several officers stated that the culture of the department changed greatly when Hackett was promoted to Chief.
Her forward and progressive mindset, how we train in-house, and how we operate on the scene allow us to better ourselves for the benefit of our citizens.
Hackett’s presence at the firehouse—helping with training, handling grants, purchasing equipment, and responding to calls—makes a significant difference.
A Tireless Commitment
Hackett has a full-time job with the EMS Emergency Call Center. She spends about two hours at her home and the rest at the fire department. Her presence has created a high level of respect.
Hackett explains that structural calls get five departments. Statistics show that if a firefighter is trapped, it takes 12 to 21 people to rescue them from the building. Mutual aid partners are very important, and that’s vital for all departments to succeed.
Firehouse Family
They have a saying at their department, “If you work at a fire station, I’m sorry, but if you work at the firehouse, congratulations.” This is their home away from home. They take care of each other and spend a lot of time together.
Congratulations, Chief Hackett, we are happy to have you here serving our citizens.
