OFF THE CUFFS with Kimbrough

“I still go to meetings, even after 30 years of being clean. I'm no different from someone who has been clean for 30 days. All we have is today.” Ericka Asbury is an addict, a poet, a mother, and a substance abuse counselor. She joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to talk about their time together as classmates at North Forsyth High School, their stances on the legalization of marijuana, and more!

"If you are concerned about children, we have the chance of changing the world." Forsyth County Commissioner Fleming El-Amin joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table for an emotional conversation about his experience in the world of high stakes banking, his rewarding career as a teacher at Glenn High School, and our children's need for advocates in their life.

“As you grow older, you learn there's always more you need to know and things are more complex than they seem.” Forsyth County Commissioner Don Martin joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table for a spirited conversation about the education system, his priorities as a County Commissioner, managing by results, and the all-important funding. “There are conditions in the community that are beyond law enforcement's control.”

“All schools are not equal because not all communities are equal. Our schools are built in our communities.” Shai Woodbury, Chair of the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education, joins the conversation at the table with Sheriff Kimbrough. They discuss equity in the education system, the uphill battle of working to change a cultural system built on –isms, and Shai's passion for investing in the hometown that originally invested in her.

"The numbers are not changing- we still have too many people living in poverty and too many hungry children; we need to come together and figure out the answers to these questions." Chris Leab, Executive Director of the Dream Center of Forsyth County, sits down at the table with Sheriff Kimbrough to discuss the importance of building community, the services offered at the Dream Center, and his vision for reaching more people.

"Many hands make the work light." Forsyth County Commissioner Tonya McDaniel sits down at the table with Sheriff Kimbrough to discuss the challenges of being the only African American female serving on the Board of Commissioners, her passion for serving Forsyth County's residents, and the need for collaboration. See less

"Don't be afraid to find your village; you can't do it alone." Joy Nelson Thomas, Executive Director and Founder of LEAD Girls of NC Inc., sits down at the table with Major Gray. LEAD Girls of NC Inc. is dedicated to providing the tools and resources that low-income/at-risk preteen girls must have to become productive citizens and active leaders in their communities. Joy Nelson Thomas talks about her passion for helping our youth, her vision, and the importance of community involvement.

“We need to be sure there's room at the table for everyone, and time for everyone to speak. It's not just about being at the table, it's being able to be served at the table.” Former Winston-Salem Mayor Martha Wood sits with Sheriff Kimbrough to discuss the challenges of being the first female mayor of Winston-Salem, the challenges and resistance that inherently accompany progress, and her continued passion for serving our community.

“Our families are our nexus and where our community begins.” Kristin Kelly Broyles, NC Board Certified Specialist in Family Law, sits down at the table with Major Gray. Kristin Kelly Broyles has litigated hundreds of matters from family law to criminal defense. She serves as the Forsyth County Bar Association President-Elect and North Carolina Bar Association Family Law Section Co-Chair of the Pro-Bono Committee. She is currently seeking an appointment for Forsyth County District Court Judge. Kristin Kelly Broyles is a big advocate for volunteering in the community and spends most of her free time serving with local nonprofits throughout the County.

At the age of 6, Austin Hicks was diagnosed with autism. Doctors said he would never be able to ties his own shoes, much less hold a conversation. Now 24 years old and an accomplished artist, Austin and his father Tommy join Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss life with autism, Austin's love for animated movies, and his new website http://austinsart.org

Vivian Perez Chandler is a community leader, non-profit executive, volunteer, and constant advocate for the Hispanic and Latinx community. Vivian joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss her personal journey as a Guatemalan immigrant, her childhood experiences with law enforcement, and her commitment to being a voice for change in our community. “I began volunteering because I didn't see people who looked like me, and I wanted to be the first.”

“Violence is the easy way out. Killing them is easier than fighting with them, easier than competing with them.” Antonio Stevenson, founder of the non-profit My Brother's Second Chance, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to talk about the violence in our community. “I'm not telling you something I don't know. I'm telling you something I've lived.”

“The biggest advice that I would give people is nothing good comes easy.” Craig Engels, a professional Nike runner with a mile time of 3:51 and Forsyth County native, sits down with Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. Mr. Engels holds the fastest mile time in North Carolina and has participated in the U.S. Olympic Trials. He discusses what it means to be a professional runner, his perspective on the world, and how hard work can lead to the greatest reward.

“I'm committed to serving the people in this state to make it its best self. There's so much potential in North Carolina. There's not a magic switch to fix everything immediately, but we can set conditions for greater success.” Attorney General Josh Stein joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table and shares his thoughts on improving law enforcement, the opioid epidemic, and his plans for the future.

“I'm a professional failure. I say this because once the sting of failure leaves, wisdom is left.” CJ Beatty, a Winston-Salem native, was signed by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2009. He is now a motivational speaker, music-maker, and entrepreneur, and he joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss his professional experiences and his personal investment in his hometown.

Akia Pruitt, prospective NBA player and the first 1,000-point, 1,000-rebound player in the Peach Belt Conference, sits down with Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. Mr. Pruitt is attending the Toronto Raptors training camp this month. He discusses the importance of mindset, strong support systems, and daily commitment when striving to reach a lifelong goal.

As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close, DMV Inspector Alex Molina joins Major Henry Gray at the table. The only Latino to hold the rank of Inspector in the state of NC, Molina knows his work is being scrutinized as representative of something much larger than just him. “There are people, especially in law enforcement, that do care, and I am one of those people.”

Dr. David Priest, Sr. VP and Chief Safety, Quality, and Epidemiology Officer at Novant Health, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. Known nationally as an infectious disease specialist, Dr. Priest considers himself to have been raised as a military kid but to have grown up here in Winston-Salem. He discusses the continuous impact of the pandemic on our community, the Covid-19 vaccine, and the vital need for equitable health care in our County.

“I am tired of seeing young kids dying.” Jaydan, a 13-year-old, sits down with Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss his perspective on life as a young teen living in Winston-Salem. Jaydan sheds light on how young people in our community need mentors to talk with and show them love, as Sheriff Kimbrough has done for him. Jaydan has enjoyed his time with the Sheriff but is looking forward to starting school and seeing his friends again.

Pamela Goodine and Al Thomas are Forensic Peer Support Specialists for the Stepping Up Program with the Forsyth County Department of Public Health. They join Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to talk about their work with individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Both Pamela and Al consider themselves "experts by experience" which uniquely qualifies and motivates them in reducing recidivism.

“Never underestimate the ditch along the side of the road.” Rusty LaRue, former NBA player and current COO of Dairi-O, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. LaRue shares what it's like to play alongside the most talented basketball players in the world, the strategy behind his change in career to the Food Industry, and his greatest accomplishment in life: being a dad. LaRue is a lifelong supporter of his alma mater Wake Forest where he played two sports and continues to make a difference in the Winston-Salem community.

Peggie Wells, Founder of The Wells Center INC. For Women in Transition, sits down at the table with Sheriff Kimbrough to talk about her mission to provide support and offer services to incarcerated women during their time in jail and after their release back into the community. The Wells Center INC. offers the "CATCH" Program and a Mentoring Program that strives to change women's attitudes in jail to ultimately change their habits for a better life in the future. Through her passion, Ms. Wells has impacted our community for over 18 years and continues to do so.

“We don't understand the power of credit.” Sheriff Kimbrough sits at the table with Truliant Credit Union's Manager of Community Engagement, Renee Rohrer, and Tommy Hicks, Community Engagement Coordinator. Truliant works to specifically educate its members on building wealth, understanding the importance of homeownership, and taking advantage of tax break opportunities. Mr. Hicks reminds us “past financial mistakes can be the best teachers.”

Sheriff Kimbrough shares the table with Paul James, III, Public Defender, 21st Judicial District, who represents 85% of defendants in our community. The two discuss the recent events in Elizabeth City, the need for transparency, and why video can be the best evidence in law enforcement situations. Paul voices his opinion on the Fourth Amendment, defunding the police, and the need for better resources for those experiencing mental health crises. Paul firmly believes “the criminal justice system can be better if we have more people to reflect the people we are representing by being more diverse.”

Fire Chief Ross Flynt's most defining moment of his life was being named Walkertown Fire Chief on April 6th, 2021. At only 28 years-old, Flynt is currently the youngest Fire Chief in Forsyth County. His career started at 14 years old as a junior firefighter with a local fire department. As Chief Flynt begins his new role, he is excited about the opportunity to grow as an individual and help the residents in our community. Although he is young, Chief Flynt recognizes, “He will have mentors that will guide him in a forward direction.”

“The Forsyth County Drug Task Force (FCDTF) will do extraordinary things, and our community will see a tremendous impact,” stated Captain Michael Cardwell. Captain Cardwell, Agent-in-Charge of the FCDTF, spoke with Sheriff Kimbrough about the mission of FCDTF, the relationships built between law enforcement agencies in the county, and the $65,000,000.00 seized in narcotics investigations including drugs, guns, and vehicles since the inception of the FCDTF in January 2021.

“What comes out of the mouths of our children - it's the truth,” stated Sheriff Kimbrough. He shared conversation with nine (9) year-old Olivia Tennille, a Summit Elementary School student who won the honor of being “Sheriff for the Day” at the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office. Olivia's powerful words and love for people will unquestionably take her far in life. Her interests include reading history books and learning more about Black Lives Matter. Olivia said, “We all need to get along with each other so we can have a big party.”

Dr. Pam Oliver, Executive Vice President and President of Novant Health Physician Network, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss the sense of purpose and fulfillment at her job that motivates her to leave her family every day to go to work. She explains that many people have been delaying seeking medical care for different reasons - fear, finances, etc.- and we are only now beginning to the impact. People are sicker and diseases more advanced. “It's not just about the location of medical facilities or even access to healthcare - it's also about education and community members understanding that they need medical treatment.”

The YMCA forms bonded relationships while providing a safe place for every person to go. “No one is ever turned away,” emphasizes Carrie Collins, Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer of YMCA Northwest. Carrie believes we should come together to work in partnership to collectively close the gap and lift our community in mind, body, and spirit.

First African American Chief of Staff at Novant Health had conversation with Sheriff Kimbrough…Dr. Jaleema Speaks, MD . Her daily responsibilities as Chief of Staff holds her accountable to being the liaison between clinical and administrative staff, forming rules and regulations and changing policies. In addition, she is a Medical Director of a Women's Health location and provides her Ob/Gyn services to her patients. She states,” it's not just about providing care but to have “knowledge” of the people you are serving and there should be equitable access to resources to help make healthier communities. ”…”There is a need for leaders, companies, businesses and government to come together for conversations to see change.”

“It's time to look at the basics: food, clothing and shelter,” saids Yusef Suggs-El , Executive Director of Action4Now. Winston-Salem can be a leading city; we should expect to agree and disagree and not prejudge. Mr. Suggs-El believes the first step of providing the needs of our community is for elected officials to take their oath serious and that we have to do what's moral if we are ready for REAL CHANGE.

“We need more immunity in our population to slow COVID-19 down, and then each of us will have a 95% chance of protection when taking the vaccine,” states Dr. Christopher Ohl, MD of Infectious Disease, Professor of Medicine at Wake Forest University of Medicine. He educates us on how the vaccine is safe, why the safety data is reliable, and how the vaccine was so quickly available. Dr. Ohl believes that “we are half way there” and he can at least see the finish line.

4 of 4 of the Gun Violence Series: Losing a love one due to gun violence does not only effect the mother and/or father but “it causes psychological damage FOR LIFE to the ENTIRE FAMILY”, said Ashley Warren, sibling to Dontrell Warren, who lost his life on October 17, 2017. His plan that evening was to simply go to the store and come back home to his loving family. Ashley states with frustration because her brother's case has not been solved , “one is just as guilty as the gunman when you don't speak up to say ANYTHING about what you know.”

Tracy Dent saids “IT'S TIME TO STAND AND TELL MY STORY” even though she is still broken ..the May 2016 story of losing her son from a drive by shooting and 3 years later losing her daughter's longtime boyfriend. “It's a new day and time” and “time to change the constitutional rights to protect the witnesses so justice and closure can be received.”

Crystal Thompson, a mother who “plays over and over NOW without insanity” the day of March 23, 2014 when her son was killed in front of her home. She continues to push through each day “mimicking his life by LOVING LIFE” and being strong for her two daughters in which one is the twin to her deceased son who continues to ask “why did my rib have to leave me.” Crystal saids the job of a mother is never done so she effortlessly find ways and time “to reach one and teach one” of our young people to help “stop the pattern” of this gun violence.

From Forsyth County high school student at Craver High School Yellow Jackets to the youngest Chancelor of the 17 institutions in the UNC System , Dr. Karrie Dixon is successfully leading the only institution in the NC system that offers a 4 year Aviation Program at Elizabeth City State University ..she quotes “ This is an opportunity I did not see myself doing but someone saw the potential in me thanks to my mentors and sponsors .”

“Let's start early to prepare our children to LEARN WELL” are the words that Bob Feikema, President/CEO of Family Services is sharing to get Forsyth County businesses, organizations and community to join forces in providing access to “high-quality” education opportunities for our 4 year-old children. Priority Pre-K Program ( an entity of Family Services) is a solution for what is not a family issue but a community problem.

“Candidly, one of the very best things about Winston-Salem is the diversity that underpins the whole community.” John Currie, the Wake Forest University Athletic Director, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. The two discuss Currie's appreciation for our community, the finer points of collegiate athletic divisions, and how “athletic directors are never celebrated, only tolerated.”

Your past challenges should not dictate your future life. Rod Wilson, an IFB Solutions Employee of the Year recipient, blind and had been diagnosed with COVID-19, is still determined to keep moving forward.  He talks with Co-Host, La Shanda Millner, FCSO PR Manager , to not only share his story but to spark the attention of many to know that his past life of incarceration and not the best  decisions made in his earlier years is HIS personal story but an experience that can be shared to help others know not do the same.

It's not rocket science to be an Attorney, It's not rocket science to be a Judge”…it JUST TAKES DRIVE and DETERMINATION”, quotes Judge Lora Cubbage who sits at the table to have conversation with Sheriff Kimbrough. The once 17 years Barber business owner to now Superior Court Judge shares her thoughts of how she believes we need to look past what we see to hear the cries of people that want to be heard and knowing that her purpose is to IMPACT and not to IMPRESS.

“When we remove the shame, that's when recovery starts.” September is National Recovery Awareness Month, and Darrell Boyles joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss how he first came to ARCA (Addiction Recovery Care Associates) 12 years ago as a client, and now he serves as the Special Projects Manager. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction or alcoholism, contact ARCA at info@arcanc.org or 877-615-2722.

“There's a tax… a cost… that comes with serving the public. Time away from family, the things you give up – it's all a price you pay.” Chief Tim Black, Forsyth County Emergency Services Director, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss his 27 years in emergency services, the new paramedic trainee program, and more!

“Mayor, if you don't do something, people are going to die.” These words prompted Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines to start a Poverty Thought Force. Mayor Joines comes to the table with Sheriff Kimbrough to discuss the coexistence of amazing wealth and appalling poverty here in one city, his 20-year tenure as mayor, and more.

“There's more to me than what you find on Wikipedia.” Representative Ted Budd joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to talk about his career, the privilege of serving the community he grew up in, and the current cultural climate. “The current issues are about more than racism – they are about different-ism.”

“We like the idea of diversity but we don't like the hard work of integrating different perspectives.” Dr. John Sumanth, James Farr Fellow & Associate Professor of Management at Wake Forest University School of Business joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table to discuss leadership during these especially challenging times.

Dr. Angela Hairston, Superintendent of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, makes time to come to the table and talk with Sheriff Kimbrough. They discuss the multiple ways that COVID-19 has impacted our students and what the 2020-2021 school year may look like. Specifically they discuss the new Cares Teams that are being implemented, Virtual Volunteers, and other ways our community can step up and support our students!

Captain Henry Gray fills in for Sheriff Kimbrough, inviting Deputy Alicia Burr to the table. They discuss her journey into law enforcement, from high school athlete to losing half her body weight to Detention Officer to Police Officer to Deputy Sheriff. She shares her experiences and perspective of working in a male-dominated field, what it is like to be married to someone who is also in law enforcement, and why she treats every traffic stop like it involves her own mom.

From working 3rd shift at Sam's Club to 2 Super Bowl rings, Baltimore Raven Anthony Levine and his trainer/mentor/friend Coach Derrick Speas pull up to the table with Sheriff Kimbrough. The 3 discuss Coach Speas' invaluable role in Levine's professional and personal life, their individual and combined commitment to helping children believe in themselves and their dreams, and what life is like as an elite athlete and coach.

Sgt Dwayne Little,  the well-known ever-smiling face of our Community Outreach Unit, joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table. The two discuss the importance of community outreach – it's not just about handing out stickers to children but about constantly creating and strengthening relationships throughout our entire community.

Talitha Vickers from WXII 12 News joins Sheriff Kimbrough at the table for a raw conversation about race and current events. “I feel like we have a very deep wound that needs attention because we keep putting bandaids on it instead of giving it the attention it actually needs.”