“Work to become someone that means something to everyone. Learn to take a step back, reflect and adjust. Be purposeful, be bold and be amazing.”

Peyton Berry, the student body president of East Rowan High School, addressing fellow graduates during commencement last Saturday

“The richest place in the world is the graveyard. All the gifts, the intellectual capital, is buried right there with them, rather than being passed on to the next generation.”

Bishop Russell Smyre of Harvest United Fellowship of Churches, who is starting a mentoring class for young fathers

“Before I was worrying about having enough gas to get places. Now, I’m set. I can start taking care of stuff.”

Tyler Wagoner of Salisbury, who won the $1 million Back Scratch lottery game, taking home $424,503 after taxes

“This is my favorite part of my job. It’s just a blessing to be able to go out and make sure kids are OK, because they’re our future and we’ve got to help them.”

Lisa Altmann, nutrition director of Rowan-Salisbury Schools, on the start of the Summer Feeding Program that provides meals to schoolchildren across the county while school is out for the season

“Everybody I surround myself with wants me to do better. They want me to make good choices, get out of Salisbury and make something of myself.”

Tyrone Johnson of Salisbury High School, who was named Rowan County Track & Field Athlete of the Year

“You can look out the door and see a field and hear a cow moo.”

Rita Geoppner, a Realtor who represents Barnhardt Meadows near China Grove, who says the new subdivision offers a rural setting that’s also close to urban centers