By JEFFERSON WEAVER
Staff Writer

Almost six months later, the work is nearly done on Holly Tree Lane and Pretty Branch Road near Riegelwood.

A dedication service Saturday will remember the eight victims of the Nov. 16 tornado, and four families who lost their homes that morning will be presented with keys to new houses.

Volunteers from the N.C. Baptist Men Disaster Recovery led hundreds of volunteers on a rebuilding effort that is still underway. Three homes have been completely rebuilt, a fourth is in the final stages, and work has started on the fifth house, according to the Rev. Bill Haddock, who is chair of the Riegelwood Disaster Relief Committee.

In addition, dozens of volunteers have repaired other homes that were damaged when the F3 tornado struck in the early morning hours of Nov. 16. Around 25 projects remain, Haddock said.

“There’s nothing that major, “ he said. “It just takes time.”

Haddock said Saturday’s celebration is a chance to “thank God for what he’s helped us accomplish, and thank all the volunteers who have been a part of this.” The event will give the families a chance to meet some of the volunteers who helped on the project, Haddock said.

“We want people to turn out for this celebration,” Haddock said.

The event starts at 2 p.m. Saturday, and will feature music and testimonies. Representatives from each denomination that was involved in coordinating the rebuilding effort will speak.

Maria Martinez, Tomeka Jenkins, Darryl McNair, and Jerry Peterson – all of whom lost homes in the tornado – are also scheduled to speak. A memorial will also be held for the residents who were killed in the storm – Michael Brown, Danny Ruiz Jacobs, Miguel Angel Jurado, Mary Ann Mai, Timothy Carl Mai, Suleyka Ruiz Martinez, O’Keon Tennell Wilson and Tyesha McKoy Wilson.

Haddock said the need for general volunteers has slacked off, but more specialized workers are now in demand at the construction site.

“We need some skilled carpenters and painters,” he said. “We have the electrical and plumbing taken care of, but we need skilled tradesmen for some of the remaining work.”

The N.C. Baptist Men will coordinate relief efforts through next week. To volunteer, or for more information, call 655-3347 or go by Riegelwood Baptist Church on N.C. 87.