🗞️ Morris Chapel United Methodist Church Launches Inaugural Summer Stroll Event

🗞️ Water system improvements to cause pressure changes, discoloration this weekend

🗞️ Parents' Night Out: LEGO Fun Awaits Kids at Bricks & Minifigs

🗞️ From state champs to graduates: three NCLA seniors pull off a day to remember

Morris Chapel United Methodist Church is stepping into new territory this summer with an ambitious community outreach initiative that promises to blend fellowship, local craftsmanship, and good food in one delightful package. The Walkertown church is hosting its very first Summer Stroll, a vendor event designed to bring neighbors together while showcasing the talents of local artisans.

"We were looking for a way to reach out to the community and have other groups in the church involved," explains Amy Colona, who is helping coordinate the event. This inaugural gathering represents more than just a market day: it's the church's way of extending an open hand to the broader community.

A Fresh Approach to Community Connection

What makes this event particularly special is its grassroots authenticity. As Colona honestly shares, "This is the first one we've done, so we're trying to figure out what's gonna make it stand out." Rather than following a predetermined formula, Morris Chapel is creating something uniquely their own, allowing the event to develop organically based on community needs and interests.

The Summer Stroll will feature vendors offering handmade items, each bringing their own creative flair to the gathering. "Our vendors work hard to make their crafts and are excited to share them with other people," Colona notes, highlighting the personal investment and passion behind each booth.

More Than Shopping: A Full Day Experience

Food plays a central role in the church's hospitality plan. The women of Morris Chapel will be serving both breakfast and lunch, ensuring visitors can make a full day of their visit. This thoughtful touch transforms a simple shopping experience into a comprehensive community gathering where people can linger, chat, and truly connect with their neighbors.

"We would love to have lots of folks attend, shop, eat lunch, eat breakfast, and have a good time," Colona says, emphasizing the church's hope for a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for everyone who stops by.

Purpose-Driven Gathering

At its heart, the Summer Stroll reflects the church's deeper mission. When asked what she's most looking forward to about the event, Colona's response captures the spirit perfectly: "To spread the love of Jesus and share some fellowship with other people." This isn't just about commerce or even community building in the traditional sense. it's about creating spaces where genuine human connection can flourish.

The event represents Morris Chapel's commitment to being more than a Sunday-only presence in the community. By opening their doors and creating an inviting atmosphere for neighbors of all backgrounds, they're demonstrating how faith communities can serve as natural gathering places that strengthen the social fabric of their neighborhoods.

Supporting Local Artisans

In an era of mass production and online shopping, the Summer Stroll offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to meet the makers behind the products. Each vendor brings not just their wares, but their stories, techniques, and passion for their craft. This personal connection between creator and customer adds meaningful value that goes well beyond the transaction itself.

Morris Chapel United Methodist Church is located at 2715 Darrow Road in Walkertown, making it easily accessible for residents throughout the area. Those interested in learning more about the Summer Stroll or the church's other community activities can visit their website at www.morrischapel.org or call (336) 595-8101. Whether you're looking for unique handmade items, a delicious meal, or simply want to experience warm fellowship with your neighbors, this inaugural event promises to offer something special for everyone.¹

Summer Stroll Vendor Event and Community Market from 9am-2pm at Morris Chapel UMC, 2715 Darrow Road, Walkertown.

Water customers in Winston-Salem, Walkertown, and Kernersville should prepare for possible water pressure changes and temporary discoloration this weekend due to system improvements. The work runs from Friday night to Saturday morning, and while the water remains safe, residents are advised to delay washing light-colored laundry. Liberty Street will also be closed in Winston-Salem during the project.²

Looking for a way to give your kids an unforgettable evening while you enjoy some well-deserved time off? Bricks & Minifigs Kernersville has the perfect solution with their upcoming Parents' Night Out event, designed to deliver three hours of creative fun for children ages 5 to 12.

Event organizer Leigh Cannon explains the concept is simple yet exciting: "It's a fun and exciting event with Legos," featuring guided LEGO activities throughout the evening. The event promises to keep young builders engaged with structured play sessions that spark creativity and imagination.

But the fun doesn't stop at building blocks. Kids will also enjoy dinner during their stay, making it a complete evening experience that parents can feel good about. "There are guided Lego activities throughout the evening," Cannon notes, emphasizing the structured nature of the programming that ensures children stay engaged and entertained.

The inspiration behind Parents' Night Out reflects the organizers' understanding of family needs. As Cannon puts it, the goal is "to give a fun activity for both parents and the children," creating a win-win situation where kids have a blast while parents get a break.

What sets this event apart from typical drop-off activities is the combination of creative play, social interaction, and the unique environment of Bricks & Minifigs, where LEGO enthusiasm runs high and expert guidance ensures every child has a positive experience.

Parents' Night Out takes place on Friday, June 5th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Bricks & Minifigs Kernersville. The cost is $30 per child, and Cannon emphasizes the importance of early registration: "Please sign up soon. Space is limited." Families can secure their spot by visiting the registration link on the Bricks & Minifigs website.³

Three seniors from The North Carolina Leadership Academy had a Saturday they won't soon forget. Brayden Hatfield, Clay Smith and Hank Gaston started their day with a two hour bus ride to Holly Springs.

They were headed to North Main Athletic Park for Game 2 of the Class 1A state championship series against Bear Grass Charter. The game was set for 11 a.m. The NCLA varsity baseball team had already won 21 straight games to close out the season.

They took Game 1 on Friday night with a 7-2 victory. But on Saturday, things got tight.

Bear Grass jumped out to a 2-0 lead. If they held on, it would force a third and deciding game.

That would mean the team would stay in Holly Springs well into the evening. And for Hatfield, Smith and Gaston, it would mean missing their graduation ceremony back at the school.

The Falcons were down to their last few outs. But in the top of the sixth inning, they rallied.

NCLA scored three runs and held on for a 3-2 win. It was the school's first ever state championship in baseball.

The seniors played a huge role in the comeback. Hatfield started on the mound and threw 102 pitches over six innings.

He also got a hit. Gaston added a hit of his own.

Smith scored the run that tied the game. After celebrating with their teammates and the fans who made the trip, the three seniors hopped on the bus.

They headed back to NCLA for the graduation ceremony. They were late, but they made it.

They put on their caps and gowns, walked across the stage, received their diplomas and celebrated with their fellow graduates.⁴