Christmas spirit filled the halls of North Cove Elementary School on Dec. 5 as the Carolina Panthers, Coca-Cola Consolidated and the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation held the “Joy to the Carolinas” event.
Students and staff gathered for a day of festive fun with interactive games, holiday music and surprises. The event featured a dance competition, led by the Panthers’ Top Cat dance team, a sing-a-long with Buddy the Elf and a chance to meet team and company mascots, Sir Purr and the Coca-Cola Polar Bear.
Dwight Stone, a retired Panthers player, also joined the fun. He shared with students and staff that he was blessed and happy to share joy with the students and school.
The biggest surprise of the day was when the students were given the gift of a new playground. The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation presented the school with a check for $40,000 to be used for updated playground equipment.
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The day concluded with each student receiving a gift bag complete with a new coat, toy and game. The gifts were delivered to the students by members of the Top Cats and other Panthers special guests. Students were not the only folks who were able to celebrate in the joy. All staff were provided a catered lunch and a gift box of Panthers and Coke items.
The smiles on the faces of the staff and students was evidence of how much joy the event brought to everyone. Student smiles and laughter filled the school. Several students proclaimed, “This is the best day ever!” Staff members were moved to joyful tears as they were overcome with gratitude for the generosity of the Carolina Panthers and partners.
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The Joy to the Carolinas event at North Cove Elementary School included a dance competition, led by the Panthers’ Top Cat dance team, a sing-a-long with Buddy the Elf and a chance to meet team and company mascots. McDowell County Schools photos
North Cove Principal Adam Wiseman said, “Words can’t express our gratitude for the joy that was shared with our school and community today. Joy for the Carolinas event sponsors went above and beyond with their kindness, energy and generosity. The level of joy on faces was priceless.”
North Cove Elementary was one of two schools selected by the Carolina Panthers to participate in Joy to the Carolinas. The Panthers organization decided to bring joy to the mountains after the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. Coca-Cola Consolidated provided a restoration team that worked on cleaning up fallen trees around the school campus. The team worked for two days to beautify the school grounds.
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The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation gave the school $40,000 for a new playground. McDowell County Schools
Dr. Tracy Grit, superintendent of McDowell County Schools, said, “We are profoundly grateful to the Carolina Panthers, Coca-Cola Consolidated and The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation for their Joy of the Carolinas initiative. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, their generous provision of a new playground, gifts and student resources has not only enhanced our school facilities but has brought renewed hope and excitement to our entire school community. Their dedication to supporting both our students and staff exemplifies the true spirit of community partnership.”
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